Cheapest Cars On Sale In 2026

Compact entry-level hatchbacks offer great value for their prices, with low running costs, easy handling in cities and essential features for daily use.

Here is a list of the most affordable cars you can buy under ₹5 lakh ex-showroom.

Note: Prices mentioned are for each car's entry-level variants.
 

Maruti S-Presso

The Maruti S-Presso's tall-boy design offers easy ingress and egress, good headroom, and a commanding view. Its light weight helps in quick manoeuvres through traffic, while high ground clearance manages bad roads well.

The 1.0-litre petrol engine delivers around 66 bhp power and 89 Nm torque, with manual, AMT or CNG options for low fuel costs.

It includes a 7-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, steering controls and auto AC in top variants.

Safety features cover dual airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP, hill-hold and rear sensors.

Also Read - Top 10 Best Mileage CNG Cars You Can Buy In 2026
 

Maruti Alto K10

The Maruti Alto K10 is compact and lightweight, ideal for tight streets and small parking spaces. It offers clear visibility, simple controls and very low maintenance.

The 1.0-litre engine produces around 66 bhp and 89 Nm torque, paired with a 5-speed manual or AMT. The CNG variants offer excellent mileage.

Features include power windows and basic infotainment in higher trims.

Safety stands strong with six airbags standard, ABS with EBD, ESP, parking sensors and ISOFIX.

Renault Kwid

The Renault Kwid looks rugged like a mini-SUV with 184 mm ground clearance and body cladding for rough roads. Its soft suspension absorbs potholes comfortably, and the large windows make the cabin feel airy.

The 1.0-litre engine gives around 67 bhp power and 91 Nm torque, paired with manual or AMT.

It features LED DRLs, an 8-inch touchscreen, and rear AC vents on higher variants.

Safety includes dual airbags (up to six in top trims), ABS with EBD, ESP, TPMS and hill-start assist.

Tata Tiago

The Tata Tiago offers a spacious cabin with good seats, a big boot, and good ride quality.

Its 1.2-litre engine produces around 85 bhp power and 113 Nm torque, with manual, AMT or CNG choices.

Key features include a 10.25-inch touchscreen plus Harman audio in higher variants.

It gets dual airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP, and ISOFIX seat mounts as standard across the range, and boasts a 4-Star Global NCAP rating.

Also Read - Safest Cars Under ₹10 Lakhs
 

Maruti Celerio

The Maruti Celerio provides a very roomy cabin and large boot, perfect for small families.

The 1.0-litre engine is shared with the S-Presso and Alto, producing the same 66 bhp power and 89 Nm torque, paired with a manual or AMT. CNG options offer added efficiency.

It has easy controls, keyless entry, push-start and a touchscreen infotainment on higher trims.

Safety includes six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP and rear parking sensors. Suspension offers a smooth ride over city bumps, and light body aids quick parking.

Citroën C3

The Citroën C3 stands out with fresh French styling, two-tone colours and bold design. Its high ground clearance and soft suspension handle bumps well for comfortable drives.

It offers a premium cabin with soft materials, ample space and a 10-inch touchscreen for wireless connectivity.

Engine options include a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol producing around 80 bhp, or a 1.2-litre turbo petrol making up to 109 bhp, mated to manual or automatic options.

Safety covers six airbags, ABS, ESP and ISOFIX seat mounts.

Image Source: Respective Carmakers