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Cars to Get Costlier April 1, 2025 Onwards
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Buying a car in ₹10 lakh to ₹20 lakh range ? Read this first
When buying a car in India within the ₹10 lakh to ₹20 lakh range, here are some key factors to consider:
1. Purpose & Usage
• Daily commute → Hatchbacks, compact sedans, or compact SUVs (e.g., Hyundai i20, Honda City, Kia Sonet).
• Family car → Spacious sedans or SUVs (e.g., Hyundai Creta, Mahindra XUV700).
• Highway & long trips → Strong engine, comfort, and safety (e.g., Skoda Slavia, Tata Harrier).
• Off-roading or adventure → 4x4 SUVs like Mahindra Thar, Scorpio N.
2. Engine & Performance
• Petrol → Better for city driving, smooth, less maintenance.
• Diesel → More fuel-efficient for long distances, better torque, slightly higher maintenance.
• Hybrid → Fuel efficiency, eco-friendly but slightly expensive.
• Electric (EVs) → Low running costs, environmental benefits, but charging infrastructure matters.
3. Transmission (Gearbox)
• Manual (MT) → More control, cheaper.
• Automatic (AMT, CVT, DCT, Torque Converter) → Easy for city driving, slightly costlier.
• Hybrid (iMT, DSG) → A mix of both, good for convenience.
4. Safety Features (Essential in 2024-2025)
• At least 4-6 airbags
• ABS with EBD (Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
• ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
• Traction Control, Hill Assist
• 5-star Global NCAP safety rating preferred
5. Features & Comfort
• Infotainment System → Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, touchscreen.
• Comfort → Ventilated seats, good legroom, AC effectiveness.
• Sunroof/Panoramic Sunroof (if preferred).
• 360-degree Camera, Parking Sensors → Useful in tight spaces.
• Connected Car Tech → Remote start, climate control via an app.
6. Mileage & Running Costs
• Petrol: 12-18 km/l (city/highway).
• Diesel: 16-24 km/l (city/highway).
• Hybrid: 20-25 km/l (depends on model).
• EV: 250-500 km range per charge.
7. Resale Value & After-Sales Service
• Brands like Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Toyota, and Tata have strong resale value.
• Check service network availability (some brands have fewer service centers).
8. Road Tax & Insurance Costs
• Bigger engine = higher road tax & insurance premium.
• Check insurance quotes before finalizing a model.
9. Budget Breakdown
• Ex-showroom price is not the final price. Consider RTO, insurance, and additional accessories.
Popular Choices in This Budget (2024-2025)
Under ₹10-15 lakh:
• Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder (Compact SUVs)
• Honda City, Skoda Slavia, VW Virtus (Sedans)
• Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV300 (Safety-focused)
Under ₹15-20 lakh:
• Mahindra XUV700, Tata Harrier, Hyundai Tucson (Premium SUVs)
• Toyota Innova Hycross, MG Hector, Jeep Compass (Spacious, premium feel)
• EVs → Tata Nexon EV, MG ZS EV, BYD Atto 3.
