Best New Cars to Consider Before Buying in India -

Buying a vehicle requires checking prices, features, and long-term durability. Searching for the best new cars to consider before buying helps drivers make smart choices across different budgets. This thorough guide compares ten top models available in India today.

1. Hyundai Creta

City On-Road Price Range:

Delhi: ₹12.80 Lakh to ₹23.60 Lakh
Mumbai: ₹13.20 Lakh to ₹24.30 Lakh
Pune: ₹13.15 Lakh to ₹24.10 Lakh
Bangalore: ₹13.80 Lakh to ₹25.20 Lakh
Chennai: ₹13.40 Lakh to ₹24.60 Lakh
Kolkata: ₹13.00 Lakh to ₹23.90 Lakh

Price is estimated around ₹11.00 Lakh (ex-showroom) at the time of publishing this blog. Please check the latest on-road price before buying.

Specifications

Brand: Hyundai
Model Name: Creta
Variant: SX (O)
Fuel Type: Petrol / Diesel
Engine Displacement: 1497 cc / 1482 cc / 1493 cc
Power Output: 113 bhp / 158 bhp / 114 bhp
Torque: 144 Nm / 253 Nm / 250 Nm
Transmission: 6-Speed Manual / IVT / 7-Speed DCT / 6-Speed Automatic
Mileage: 17.4 to 21.8 kmpl
Seating Capacity: 5 Persons
Safety Rating: 3 Stars (Tested Previous Gen)
Airbags: 6 Airbags
Boot Space: 433 Litres
Ground Clearance: 190 mm

Why We Picked It

Hyundai equips top variants of the Creta with balanced suspension and refined engines. Cabin space offers excellent head room alongside comfortable seating cushions. Modern styling gives this vehicle strong street appeal across Indian highways.

Engine choices operate quietly during daily city traffic conditions. Smooth power delivery makes overtaking heavy vehicles effortless on open expressways. High fuel economy figures keep running costs manageable for daily drivers.

Advanced safety features include six airbags and active electronic stability control. Dual digital screens show essential drive data without distracting the driver. Buyers seeking a dependable car with best mileage will appreciate owning this vehicle.

Pros

Quiet engines deliver smooth power across all speed ranges.
Comfortable seats support passengers well on long highway journeys.
Wide service network keeps maintenance simple and affordable.
Excellent resale demand protects long-term vehicle ownership value.

Cons

Top variants carry relatively high price tags in metro cities.
Steering feel stays somewhat light at higher express speeds.

2. Kia Seltos

City On-Road Price Range:

Delhi: ₹12.70 Lakh to ₹23.80 Lakh
Mumbai: ₹13.10 Lakh to ₹24.50 Lakh
Pune: ₹13.00 Lakh to ₹24.30 Lakh
Bangalore: ₹13.70 Lakh to ₹25.40 Lakh
Chennai: ₹13.30 Lakh to ₹24.80 Lakh
Kolkata: ₹12.90 Lakh to ₹24.00 Lakh

Price is estimated around ₹10.90 Lakh (ex-showroom) at the time of publishing this blog. Please check the latest on-road price before buying.

Specifications

Brand: Kia
Model Name: Seltos
Variant: GTX Plus / X-Line
Fuel Type: Petrol / Diesel
Engine Displacement: 1497 cc / 1482 cc / 1493 cc
Power Output: 113 bhp / 158 bhp / 114 bhp
Torque: 144 Nm / 253 Nm / 250 Nm
Transmission: 6-Speed Manual / IVT / 7-Speed DCT / 6-Speed Automatic
Mileage: 17.0 to 20.7 kmpl
Seating Capacity: 5 Persons
Safety Rating: 3 Stars (Global NCAP)
Airbags: 6 Airbags
Boot Space: 433 Litres
Ground Clearance: 190 mm

Why We Picked It

Kia builds the Seltos with sharp exterior lines and a feature packed cabin layout. Leatherette seat upholstery adds a premium touch to daily commutes. Wide digital displays dominate the front dash to show maps and media controls clearly.

Engine tuning gives brisk acceleration response across both manual and automatic options. Suspension settings hold the body steady when negotiating sharp highway curves. Driver assistance features actively monitor distance to cars traveling ahead.

Spacious footwell areas allow five adults to travel comfortably over long distances. High ground clearance lets the chassis glide over deep potholes without scraped underbody panels. Style conscious buyers looking for top new cars in India will enjoy this option.

Pros

Modern dashboard design features clear twin digital screens.
Sharp turbo petrol motor provides quick throttle response.
Firm suspension control maintains sharp body stability on turns.
Rich feature list includes panoramic sunroof and ventilated seats.

Cons

Firm ride feel allows small road bumps into the cabin area.
Rear seating cushion feels slightly stiff for elderly occupants.

3. Tata Nexon

City On-Road Price Range:

Delhi: ₹9.10 Lakh to ₹18.20 Lakh
Mumbai: ₹9.40 Lakh to ₹18.80 Lakh
Pune: ₹9.35 Lakh to ₹18.70 Lakh
Bangalore: ₹9.80 Lakh to ₹19.50 Lakh
Chennai: ₹9.50 Lakh to ₹19.10 Lakh
Kolkata: ₹9.20 Lakh to ₹18.40 Lakh

Price is estimated around ₹8.00 Lakh (ex-showroom) at the time of publishing this blog. Please check the latest on-road price before buying.

Specifications

Brand: Tata
Model Name: Nexon
Variant: Fearless Plus S
Fuel Type: Petrol / Diesel
Engine Displacement: 1199 cc / 1497 cc
Power Output: 118 bhp / 113 bhp
Torque: 170 Nm / 260 Nm
Transmission: 6-Speed Manual / 7-Speed DCA / 6-Speed AMT
Mileage: 17.4 to 23.2 kmpl
Seating Capacity: 5 Persons
Safety Rating: 5 Stars (Bharat NCAP)
Airbags: 6 Airbags
Boot Space: 382 Litres
Ground Clearance: 208 mm

Why We Picked It

Tata constructs the Nexon using high strength steel for superior occupant protection. Distinct LED lighting gives the vehicle an attractive profile on city roads. Solid door construction shuts with a heavy reassuring thud.

Engine options deliver steady pull power across urban streets and open expressways. High ground clearance allows drivers to clear oversized speed breakers easily. Absorptive suspension settings cushion passengers from harsh road impacts.

Five star crash safety test scores make this model a top choice for safety focused families. Front ventilated seats offer rapid cooling during hot summer afternoons. Shoppers seeking the safest new cars in India under budget will find this vehicle fits their needs.

Pros

Five star crash test rating guarantees top structural protection.
High ground clearance handles deep road ruts effortlessly.
Comfortable front seats provide generous lower back support.
Competitive pricing makes it a budget car with best mileage.

Cons

Dual clutch transmission shows minor low speed jerkiness in traffic.
Rear bench width feels tight for three large adult passengers.

4. Tata Harrier

City On-Road Price Range:

Delhi: ₹18.20 Lakh to ₹31.40 Lakh
Mumbai: ₹18.90 Lakh to ₹32.50 Lakh
Pune: ₹18.80 Lakh to ₹32.30 Lakh
Bangalore: ₹19.70 Lakh to ₹33.80 Lakh
Chennai: ₹19.20 Lakh to ₹33.00 Lakh
Kolkata: ₹18.50 Lakh to ₹31.90 Lakh

Price is estimated around ₹15.49 Lakh (ex-showroom) at the time of publishing this blog. Please check the latest on-road price before buying.

Specifications

Brand: Tata
Model Name: Harrier
Variant: Fearless Plus
Fuel Type: Diesel
Engine Displacement: 1956 cc
Power Output: 168 bhp
Torque: 350 Nm
Transmission: 6-Speed Manual / 6-Speed Automatic
Mileage: 14.6 to 16.8 kmpl
Seating Capacity: 5 Persons
Safety Rating: 5 Stars (Bharat NCAP)
Airbags: 7 Airbags
Boot Space: 445 Litres
Ground Clearance: 205 mm

Why We Picked It

Tata builds the Harrier on a heavy platform derived from Land Rover architecture. Wide wheel tracks give the vehicle an imposing highway stance. Thick door panels reduce outside traffic noise inside the spacious passenger cabin.

Strong diesel performance enables swift overtaking maneuvers on incline mountain roads. Heavy kerb weight keeps the vehicle planted during strong crosswind conditions. Smooth automatic transmission shifts gear ratios smoothly without interrupting momentum.

High occupant safety credentials provide total confidence during interstate travel. Plush seats support legs well on multi-hour road trips. Buyers wanting a bold vehicle with high road presence should check out this model.

Pros

Strong diesel engine provides excellent pulling power.
Five star safety score reassures occupants on high speed drives.
Wide cabin provides generous shoulder room for all occupants.
Large alloy wheels give smooth ride quality over unpaved roads.

Cons

Diesel engine clatter remains noticeable under hard acceleration.
Heavy steering wheel requires effort during low speed parking.

5. Mahindra XUV700

City On-Road Price Range:

Delhi: ₹16.20 Lakh to ₹31.50 Lakh
Mumbai: ₹16.80 Lakh to ₹32.40 Lakh
Pune: ₹16.70 Lakh to ₹32.20 Lakh
Bangalore: ₹17.50 Lakh to ₹33.80 Lakh
Chennai: ₹17.10 Lakh to ₹33.00 Lakh
Kolkata: ₹16.50 Lakh to ₹31.90 Lakh

Price is estimated around ₹13.99 Lakh (ex-showroom) at the time of publishing this blog. Please check the latest on-road price before buying.

Specifications

Brand: Mahindra
Model Name: XUV700
Variant: AX7 Luxury Pack
Fuel Type: Petrol / Diesel
Engine Displacement: 1997 cc / 2184 cc
Power Output: 197 bhp / 182 bhp
Torque: 380 Nm / 450 Nm
Transmission: 6-Speed Manual / 6-Speed Automatic
Mileage: 13.0 to 16.5 kmpl
Seating Capacity: 5 / 7 Persons
Safety Rating: 5 Stars (Global NCAP)
Airbags: 7 Airbags
Boot Space: 451 Litres
Ground Clearance: 200 mm

Why We Picked It

Mahindra designs the XUV700 with a muscular front grille and flush door handles. Generous cabin width accommodates growing families across two or three row seating configurations. Twin screen display panels extend across the dashboard to deliver vital navigation details.

High horsepower engines deliver class leading acceleration when entering fast highways. Selective dampers filter out sharp road harshness before vibrations hit cabin seats. Automatic emergency braking actively prevents front end collisions in heavy traffic.

Five star crash safety protection confirms high body shell structural strength. Driver seat memory settings store personal position preferences for multiple drivers. Performance enthusiasts searching for the best new cars to consider before buying will find this option compelling.

Pros

Potent engines deliver fast highway acceleration.
Five star crash rating ensures complete occupant safety.
Advanced driver assist systems improve highway driving security.
Panoramic sunroof brightens interior atmosphere for passengers.

Cons

Third row seating space feels cramped for tall adult passengers.
Touchscreen system software occasionally requires dealer firmware updates.

6. Skoda Slavia

City On-Road Price Range:

Delhi: ₹13.50 Lakh to ₹22.40 Lakh
Mumbai: ₹14.00 Lakh to ₹23.10 Lakh
Pune: ₹13.90 Lakh to ₹22.90 Lakh
Bangalore: ₹14.60 Lakh to ₹24.00 Lakh
Chennai: ₹14.20 Lakh to ₹23.50 Lakh
Kolkata: ₹13.70 Lakh to ₹22.70 Lakh

Price is estimated around ₹11.63 Lakh (ex-showroom) at the time of publishing this blog. Please check the latest on-road price before buying.

Specifications

Brand: Skoda
Model Name: Slavia
Variant: Style / Elegance
Fuel Type: Petrol
Engine Displacement: 999 cc / 1498 cc
Power Output: 114 bhp / 148 bhp
Torque: 178 Nm / 250 Nm
Transmission: 6-Speed Manual / 6-Speed Automatic / 7-Speed DSG
Mileage: 18.7 to 20.3 kmpl
Seating Capacity: 5 Persons
Safety Rating: 5 Stars (Global NCAP)
Airbags: 6 Airbags
Boot Space: 521 Litres
Ground Clearance: 179 mm

Why We Picked It

Skoda crafts the Slavia with elegant European design proportions and clean character lines. Solid body construction instills strong driver confidence on fast interstate expressways. Quiet acoustic insulation prevents wind noise from penetrating the cabin at speed.

Turbocharged petrol engines deliver immediate power responses when pressing the accelerator. Firm suspension tuning controls body roll while keeping passenger comfort intact over bumpy roads. Direct steering feedback allows drivers to guide the car accurately.

Five star crash safety ratings demonstrate high body shell integrity for all occupants. Massive luggage trunk easily stores heavy bags for long family vacations. Sedan lovers wanting European driving feel should consider this option.

Pros

Direct steering provides precise directional vehicle control.
Five star crash test rating ensures high structural protection.
Energetic turbo petrol motor offers enjoyable acceleration response.
Large trunk capacity swallows multiple big luggage bags easily.

Cons

Dashboard plastics feel hard in lower cabin areas.
Dual clutch automatic gearbox requires delicate throttle inputs in traffic.

7. MG Hector

City On-Road Price Range:

Delhi: ₹16.30 Lakh to ₹26.10 Lakh
Mumbai: ₹16.80 Lakh to ₹26.90 Lakh
Pune: ₹16.70 Lakh to ₹26.70 Lakh
Bangalore: ₹17.60 Lakh to ₹27.90 Lakh
Chennai: ₹17.10 Lakh to ₹27.20 Lakh
Kolkata: ₹16.50 Lakh to ₹26.30 Lakh

Price is estimated around ₹13.99 Lakh (ex-showroom) at the time of publishing this blog. Please check the latest on-road price before buying.

Specifications

Brand: MG
Model Name: Hector
Variant: Savvy Pro
Fuel Type: Petrol / Diesel
Engine Displacement: 1451 cc / 1956 cc
Power Output: 141 bhp / 168 bhp
Torque: 250 Nm / 350 Nm
Transmission: 6-Speed Manual / CVT Automatic
Mileage: 12.3 to 15.5 kmpl
Seating Capacity: 5 Persons
Safety Rating: 5 Stars (Internal / Structure)
Airbags: 6 Airbags
Boot Space: 587 Litres
Ground Clearance: 192 mm

Why We Picked It

MG builds the Hector with a prominent chrome grille and bold overall dimensions. Interior layout emphasizes rear legroom to offer passenger comfort. Massive portrait touchscreen display controls climate and navigation settings efficiently.

Suspension setup glides over broken city street surfaces without transmitting harshness inside. Smooth power delivery ensures comfortable city cruising for daily family commutes. Panoramic sunroof creates an open airy feel throughout the spacious cabin.

Plush seat padding reduces body fatigue during extended road trips. Ambient interior lighting improves evening cabin mood during night drives. Comfort oriented buyers wanting top new cars in India will enjoy this spacious option.

Pros

Generous rear legroom delivers lounge style passenger seating comfort.
Large touchscreen interface provides easy visual access to features.
Soft suspension absorbs uneven road bumps smoothly.
High ground clearance handles deep potholes without scrape worries.

Cons

Real world fuel efficiency trails smaller compact vehicle options.
Large body dimensions require caution in tight parking spots.

8. Volkswagen Virtus

City On-Road Price Range:

Delhi: ₹13.40 Lakh to ₹22.70 Lakh
Mumbai: ₹13.90 Lakh to ₹23.40 Lakh
Pune: ₹13.80 Lakh to ₹23.20 Lakh
Bangalore: ₹14.50 Lakh to ₹24.30 Lakh
Chennai: ₹14.10 Lakh to ₹23.80 Lakh
Kolkata: ₹13.60 Lakh to ₹23.00 Lakh

Price is estimated around ₹11.56 Lakh (ex-showroom) at the time of publishing this blog. Please check the latest on-road price before buying.

Specifications

Brand: Volkswagen
Model Name: Virtus
Variant: GT Plus 1.5 TSI
Fuel Type: Petrol
Engine Displacement: 999 cc / 1498 cc
Power Output: 114 bhp / 148 bhp
Torque: 178 Nm / 250 Nm
Transmission: 6-Speed Manual / 6-Speed Automatic / 7-Speed DSG
Mileage: 18.4 to 20.1 kmpl
Seating Capacity: 5 Persons
Safety Rating: 5 Stars (Global NCAP)
Airbags: 6 Airbags
Boot Space: 521 Litres
Ground Clearance: 179 mm

Why We Picked It

Volkswagen styles the Virtus with sharp headlamp graphics and classic sedan lines. High structural strength gives the chassis great stability on fast highway roads. Cabin panels fit tightly together to eliminate interior squeaks or rattles.

Direct injection petrol engines deliver strong highway passing power with smooth refinement. Cylinder deactivation technology shuts down two cylinders during light highway cruising to save petrol. Stiff chassis balance keeps the car planted when taking tight corners.

Five star crash test scores provide complete passenger protection reassurance. Wide boot opening makes loading heavy travel luggage simple. Driving enthusiasts seeking top new cars in India will love this sporty sedan.

Pros

Excellent high speed stability keeps vehicle planted on expressways.
Five star crash test score guarantees strong passenger security.
Cylinder deactivation feature boosts steady highway fuel economy.
Sporty engine performance provides fast acceleration response.

Cons

Low roofline forces tall rear passengers to duck while entering.
Service center footprint remains smaller than Indian domestic brands.

9. Hyundai Verna

City On-Road Price Range:

Delhi: ₹12.80 Lakh to ₹20.40 Lakh
Mumbai: ₹13.20 Lakh to ₹21.10 Lakh
Pune: ₹13.10 Lakh to ₹20.90 Lakh
Bangalore: ₹13.70 Lakh to ₹21.90 Lakh
Chennai: ₹13.40 Lakh to ₹21.30 Lakh
Kolkata: ₹13.00 Lakh to ₹20.70 Lakh

Price is estimated around ₹11.00 Lakh (ex-showroom) at the time of publishing this blog. Please check the latest on-road price before buying.

Specifications

Brand: Hyundai
Model Name: Verna
Variant: SX (O) Turbo
Fuel Type: Petrol
Engine Displacement: 1482 cc
Power Output: 158 bhp
Torque: 253 Nm
Transmission: 6-Speed Manual / 7-Speed DCT
Mileage: 20.6 kmpl
Seating Capacity: 5 Persons
Safety Rating: 5 Stars (Global NCAP)
Airbags: 6 Airbags
Boot Space: 528 Litres
Ground Clearance: 170 mm

Why We Picked It

Hyundai designs the Verna with futuristic LED light bars and sharp body cuts. Extended wheelbase dimensions create plenty of legroom for rear seat occupants. Soft interior materials cover key touch points across the central dashboard.

Powerful turbo petrol engine delivers energetic acceleration during fast highway overtaking. Front seats offer heating and cooling functions to keep passengers comfortable in all seasons. Smooth gear shifts allow effortless driving through crowded city centers.

Five star crash test rating proves strong structural integrity under collision impacts. Generous boot space swallows family suitcases easily. Sedan shoppers seeking comfort and performance should evaluate this car carefully.

Pros

Class leading rear legroom improves overall passenger travel comfort.
Five star crash rating guarantees high occupant safety protection.
Heated and ventilated front seats adapt to all weather conditions.
Strong turbo petrol motor offers swift acceleration response.

Cons

Lower ground clearance demands care over tall city speed humps.
Futuristic exterior styling might divide individual visual preferences.

10. Tata Safari

City On-Road Price Range:

Delhi: ₹18.90 Lakh to ₹32.10 Lakh
Mumbai: ₹19.60 Lakh to ₹33.20 Lakh
Pune: ₹19.50 Lakh to ₹33.00 Lakh
Bangalore: ₹20.40 Lakh to ₹34.50 Lakh
Chennai: ₹19.90 Lakh to ₹33.70 Lakh
Kolkata: ₹19.20 Lakh to ₹32.60 Lakh

Price is estimated around ₹16.19 Lakh (ex-showroom) at the time of publishing this blog. Please check the latest on-road price before buying.

Specifications

Brand: Tata
Model Name: Safari
Variant: Accomplished Plus
Fuel Type: Diesel
Engine Displacement: 1956 cc
Power Output: 168 bhp
Torque: 350 Nm
Transmission: 6-Speed Manual / 6-Speed Automatic
Mileage: 14.5 to 16.3 kmpl
Seating Capacity: 6 / 7 Persons
Safety Rating: 5 Stars (Bharat NCAP)
Airbags: 7 Airbags
Boot Space: 420 Litres
Ground Clearance: 205 mm

Why We Picked It

Tata constructs the Safari as a flagship three row family vehicle. Command seating position gives drivers a clear view over surrounding city traffic. High build quality provides passenger protection across all three seating rows.

Strong diesel engine delivers ample torque for hauling full passenger loads up steep roads. Suspension absorbs major potholes smoothly to keep the cabin calm. Option for captain seats in the second row offers premium seating comfort.

Five star safety test score gives parents full confidence on long interstate family trips. Ventilated seats in first two rows keep occupants cool in warm weather. Large families requiring six or seven seats should consider this option.

Pros

Three row seating layout comfortably fits large joint families.
Five star safety score offers complete occupant protection.
Ventilated seating in front two rows increases travel comfort.
High ground clearance clears unpaved country roads easily.

Cons

Diesel engine sound enters cabin during heavy acceleration.
Wide turning radius makes sharp U-turns tricky on narrow streets.

Key Takeaways

Safest New Cars: Tata Nexon, Tata Harrier, Mahindra XUV700, Skoda Slavia, Volkswagen Virtus, Hyundai Verna, and Tata Safari all carry five star safety ratings.
Best Mileage Pick: Tata Nexon provides exceptional fuel economy reaching up to 23.2 kmpl.
Top Budget Pick: Tata Nexon offers five star safety and high ground clearance starting at budget friendly price points.
Best Multi-Row Vehicle: Mahindra XUV700 and Tata Safari provide spacious three row seating for large families.
Top Performance Pick: Mahindra XUV700 delivers 197 bhp of class leading petrol power.

FAQs

How can buyers test real-world mileage before buying a new car?

Drivers should conduct extended test drives on both city streets and open highways to monitor realistic fuel economy numbers.

Are six airbags mandatory in top new cars sold in India?

Six airbags come standard across most top variants to offer maximum occupant protection during road collisions.

What factors impact the total ownership cost of a new vehicle?

Regular maintenance schedules, fuel efficiency, insurance premiums, and spare part costs determine total long-term vehicle upkeep expenses.

Is high ground clearance necessary for Indian road conditions?

High ground clearance prevents underbody damage when driving over large speed bumps and unpaved rural roads.

Do petrol cars offer better resale value than diesel cars in India?

Resale values depend on regional vehicle registration policies, fuel prices, and specific market demand for individual car models.

Conclusion

Choosing among the best new cars to consider before buying depends on personal budget, family size, and road conditions. Buyers prioritizing safety and fuel efficiency can select compact options like the Tata Nexon. Drivers wanting raw power and three row space will find the Mahindra XUV700 or Tata Safari ideal. Evaluating price points and safety credentials carefully ensures you select the perfect new car for your household needs.