When buying a car in India, reliability often ranks just as high as design, features, and performance. For a budget under ₹10 lakh, buyers want a car that not only delivers in terms of style and safety but also provides long-term peace of mind with low maintenance, fuel efficiency, and lasting performance. In 2025, a new wave of compact cars and mini SUVs has captured attention for ticking all these boxes.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the top 5 most reliable cars under ₹10 lakh, featuring everything from SUVs to sedans – all backed by real-world service data, maintenance costs, performance, and key specs.
1. Maruti Suzuki Brezza – Proven Reliability With Great Features
Maruti Suzuki continues to dominate the reliability game in India, and the Brezza remains a top pick under ₹10 lakh. Known for its rugged build and minimal maintenance issues, the Brezza’s estimated 5-year maintenance cost stands at ₹25,934, making it a solid long-term investment.
Key Specifications:
- Engine: 1.5L Petrol (101.6 bhp, 137 Nm)
- Transmission: 5-speed MT / 6-speed Torque Converter
- CNG Variant: 87 bhp, 121.5 Nm (5-speed MT)
- Mileage: Up to 25.5 km/kg (CNG)
- Key Features: 9-inch touchscreen, electric sunroof, 360-degree camera, HUD, 6 airbags
- On-road Price (Mumbai): ₹10.23 – ₹16.63 lakh
With both petrol and CNG options, the Brezza offers excellent fuel economy, a sturdy body, and premium features — a winning combination for city and semi-urban buyers alike.
2. Tata Punch – Tough, Affordable, and Made for Indian Roads
The Tata Punch has carved a niche as one of the most value-for-money micro SUVs in the Indian market. Known for its ruggedness and high Global NCAP safety rating, the Punch is both reliable and affordable to maintain, with an estimated 5-year maintenance cost of ₹23,561.
Key Specifications:
- Engine: 1.2L Petrol (87 bhp, 115 Nm)
- Transmission: 5-speed MT / 5-speed AMT
- CNG Variant: 72 bhp, 103 Nm (MT only)
- Key Features: Electric sunroof, 10.25-inch infotainment system, auto climate control, 7-inch cluster
- On-road Price (Mumbai): ₹7.26 – ₹12.15 lakh
Punch appeals to young buyers and families alike, offering durability, practical design, and all-weather performance, especially on rough Indian terrains.
3. Hyundai Exter – Feature-Rich and Affordable Entry-Level SUV
A fresh addition to Hyundai’s SUV lineup, the Exter delivers modern features, stylish design, and solid reliability. Ideal for urban families, it has low maintenance costs — approximately ₹16,000–₹20,000 over 5 years, depending on the variant.
Key Specifications:
- Engine: 1.2L Petrol (82 bhp, 114 Nm)
- Transmission: 5-speed MT / AMT
- CNG Variant: 68 bhp, 95.2 Nm (MT only)
- Key Features: Electric sunroof, 8-inch touchscreen, digital driver display, cruise control
- On-road Price (Mumbai): ₹7.34 – ₹12.53 lakh
Exter is ideal for buyers looking for comfort, technology, and low ownership cost. It’s an especially smart pick for urban commuters who need fuel efficiency and a feature-loaded package.
4. Kia Sonet – Premium Styling Meets Affordable Ownership
Despite being a slightly premium compact SUV, the Kia Sonet offers low maintenance and high durability — with a 5-year service cost estimated at just ₹19,652. It stands out with its wide engine options and a tech-forward cabin.
Key Specifications:
- Engines:
- 1.2L NA Petrol (82 bhp, 115 Nm)
- 1.0L Turbo Petrol (118 bhp, 172 Nm)
- 1.5L Diesel (114 bhp, 250 Nm)
- Transmission Options: MT, iMT, DCT, TC
- Key Features: 10.25-inch touchscreen & cluster, ADAS, electric sunroof, ventilated seats
- On-road Price (Mumbai): ₹9.34 – ₹18.79 lakh
The Sonet is for those who want reliability with a premium twist. Its diesel and turbo-petrol options add to its versatility, while the cabin feels plush for the price.
5. Honda Amaze – Reliable Sedan With a Comfortable Ride
The only sedan on the list, the Honda Amaze has proven its reliability over the years. With a 5-year maintenance estimate of ₹27,292, it’s slightly higher on the list, but the Amaze justifies it with its quality and refined engine.
Key Specifications:
- Engine: 1.2L Petrol (89 bhp, 110 Nm)
- Transmission: 5-speed MT / CVT
- Key Features: 8-inch touchscreen, ambient lighting, Level 2 ADAS, wireless charging
- On-road Price (Mumbai): ₹9.54 – ₹13.31 lakh
Amaze continues to attract buyers who prefer sedan styling and comfort over an SUV’s bulk. Its spacious cabin, smooth CVT, and quiet engine make it a reliable long-term companion.
Summary Table – Top 5 Reliable Cars Under ₹10 Lakh (2025)
| Model | Maintenance (5 Yrs) | Engine Options | Mileage (CNG/Petrol) | Price (On-road) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maruti Brezza | ₹25,934 | 1.5L Petrol, CNG | Up to 25.5 km/kg | ₹10.23 – ₹16.63 L |
| Tata Punch | ₹23,561 | 1.2L Petrol, CNG | Up to 26.99 km/kg | ₹7.26 – ₹12.15 L |
| Hyundai Exter | ₹16,000 – ₹20,000 | 1.2L Petrol, CNG | Up to 27.1 km/kg | ₹7.34 – ₹12.53 L |
| Kia Sonet | ₹19,652 | 1.0L Turbo, 1.2L Petrol, 1.5L Diesel | Varies | ₹9.34 – ₹18.79 L |
| Honda Amaze | ₹27,292 | 1.2L Petrol | Up to 18.6 km/l | ₹9.54 – ₹13.31 L |
Final Thoughts
For car buyers in 2025, these five vehicles offer a sweet blend of reliability, affordability, and smart features. Whether you prefer an SUV’s stance or a sedan’s comfort, the market has something for everyone under ₹10 lakh.
If reliability is your top priority, Maruti Brezza and Tata Punch take the lead. For those who want more tech and style, Hyundai Exter and Kia Sonet are impressive options. And for sedan lovers, the Honda Amaze offers unmatched Honda refinement and efficiency.