Best Low-Maintenance Cars in India 2025

As fuel prices continue to rise and the cost of living increases across India, car owners are increasingly prioritising long-term affordability alongside the initial purchase price. Low-maintenance cars have emerged as an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers who want to minimise running costs without compromising on reliability or performance. These vehicles typically feature simpler engineering designs, widely available spare parts, and efficient powertrains that require less frequent servicing. 

This comprehensive guide explores the best low-maintenance cars available in the Indian market in 2025, helping you make an informed decision that balances upfront cost with long-term ownership expenses.

Why Maintenance Costs Matter in Car Ownership?

Maintenance costs represent a significant portion of a vehicle's total ownership expenses, often overlooked during the purchase decision. While the sticker price might attract buyers initially, maintenance expenses accumulate over the years of ownership and can exceed the initial cost difference between models. These expenditures include routine servicing, spare parts replacement, labour charges, and unforeseen repairs that become more frequent as vehicles age. 

Low-maintenance cars typically feature simplified mechanical designs, reliable powertrains with fewer components prone to failure, and widespread service networks that ensure competitive pricing for parts and labour. By choosing a car with lower maintenance requirements, owners can save substantial amounts over the vehicle's lifetime while enjoying greater reliability and reduced downtime for repairs.

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List of Best Low-Maintenance Cars in India

Best Low-Maintenance Cars in India

1. Maruti Suzuki Swift (₹6.49 - 9.60 Lakhs)

• Engine and Performance
  • 1.2-litre K-Series Dual Jet petrol engine producing 89 bhp and 113 Nm of torque
  • Available with 5-speed manual and AMT transmissions
  • Impressive fuel efficiency of 22.38 km/l (manual) and 22.56 km/l (AMT)
  • CNG variant offers 30.90 km/kg economy
• Maintenance Advantages
  • Wide service network with 4,000+ Maruti service centres across India
  • Affordable spare parts that are readily available even in smaller towns
  • Service interval of 10,000 km or 12 months
  • Average annual maintenance cost: ₹5,000-6,000
• Key Specifications
  • Boot space: 268 litres
  • Ground clearance: 163 mm
  • Features: 7-inch touchscreen infotainment, auto climate control, push-button start
• Competitors Comparison
  • More affordable maintenance than Hyundai i20 (₹7,000-8,500/year)
  • Better service network reach than the Tata Tiago
  • Lower spare parts costs compared to European competitors

2. Tata Tiago (₹5.65 - 8.20 Lakhs)

• Engine and Performance
  • 1.2-litre Revotron petrol engine delivering 86 bhp and 113 Nm of torque
  • Available with 5-speed manual and AMT gearbox options
  • Fuel efficiency of 19.8 km/l (manual) and 19.4 km/l (AMT)
  • CNG variant with 26.49 km/kg economy
• Maintenance Advantages
  • Improving service network with 1,000+ touchpoints nationwide
  • Service interval of 10,000 km or 12 months
  • Robust build quality reduces cthe hances of frequent repairs
  • Average annual maintenance cost: ₹5,500-7,000
• Key Specifications
  • Boot space: 242 litres
  • Ground clearance: 170 mm
  • Features: 7-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, cooled glovebox
• Competitors Comparison
  • Better build quality than Maruti alternatives
  • Higher safety rating (4-star Global NCAP) than most competitors
  • Slightly higher maintenance cost than Maruti, but lower than Hyundai

3. Hyundai Grand i10 Nios (₹5.92 - 8.56 Lakhs)

• Engine and Performance
  • 1.2-litre Kappa petrol engine producing 83 bhp and 114 Nm torque
  • Available with 5-speed manual and AMT options
  • Fuel efficiency of 21 km/l (manual) and 20.7 km/l (AMT)
  • CNG variant offering 28.4 km/kg economy
• Maintenance Advantages
  • Strong service network with 1,300+ service centres
  • Service interval of 10,000 km or 12 months
  • Superior warranty of 3 years/unlimited kilometres (extendable)
  • Average annual maintenance cost: ₹6,000-7,500
• Key Specifications
  • Boot space: 260 litres
  • Ground clearance: 165 mm
  • Features: 8-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, BlueLink connected car tech
• Competitors Comparison
  • Better feature set than similarly priced Maruti Swift
  • More premium interior quality than competitors
  • Slightly higher maintenance cost offset by better warranty coverage

4. Maruti Suzuki Dzire (₹6.51 - 9.39 Lakhs)

• Engine and Performance
  • 1.2-litre K-Series Dual Jet petrol engine generating 89 bhp and 113 Nm of torque
  • 5-speed manual and AMT transmission options
  • Exceptional fuel efficiency of 23.26 km/l (manual) and 24.12 km/l (AMT)
  • CNG variant delivering 31.12 km/kg economy
• Maintenance Advantages
  • Extensive service network ensuring competitive labour rates
  • Readily available and affordable spare parts nationwide
  • Service interval of 10,000 km or 12 months
  • Average annual maintenance cost: ₹5,500-6,500
• Key Specifications
  • Boot space: 378 litres
  • Ground clearance: 163 mm
  • Features: 7-inch touchscreen with smartphone connectivity, automatic climate control
• Competitors Comparison
  • Lower running costs than Honda Amaze and Hyundai Aura
  • Superior fuel efficiency reducing overall running expenses
  • More affordable spare parts than comparable sedans

5. Honda Amaze (₹7.20 - 9.92 Lakhs)

• Engine and Performance
  • 1.2-litre i-VTEC petrol engine producing 90 bhp and 110 Nm torque
  • 5-speed manual and CVT transmission options
  • Fuel efficiency of 18.6 km/l (manual) and 18.4 km/l (CVT)
• Maintenance Advantages
  • Honda's reputation for engine reliability and longevity
  • Service interval of 10,000 km or 12 months
  • Simplified engineering with fewer problematic components
  • Average annual maintenance cost: ₹7,000-9,000
• Key Specifications
  • Boot space: 420 litres
  • Ground clearance: 165 mm
  • Features: 7-inch touchscreen, cruise control, paddle shifters (in CVT)
• Competitors Comparison
  • More reliable transmission than AMT-equipped competitors
  • Better Honda build quality with longer-lasting components
  • Higher initial maintenance cost but fewer unscheduled repairs long-term

6. Maruti Suzuki Brezza (₹8.34 - 14.14 Lakhs)

• Engine and Performance
  • 1.5-litre K-Series petrol engine delivering 103 bhp and 138 Nm torque
  • 5-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmission options
  • Fuel efficiency of 19.89 km/l (manual) and 19.80 km/l (automatic)
  • CNG variant offering 25.51 km/kg economy
• Maintenance Advantages
  • Maruti's extensive service network keeping costs competitive
  • Commonly shared components with other Maruti models ensuring parts availability
  • Service interval of 10,000 km or 12 months
  • Average annual maintenance cost: ₹7,000-8,500
• Key Specifications
  • Boot space: 328 litres
  • Ground clearance: 198 mm
  • Features: 9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ infotainment, electric sunroof, 360-degree camera
• Competitors Comparison
  • 25-30% lower maintenance cost than Hyundai Venue
  • More affordable spare parts than Kia Sonet
  • Lower labour rates than most SUV competitors

7. Nissan Magnite (₹6.00 - 11.50 Lakhs)

• Engine and Performance
  • 1.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol (72 bhp) and 1.0-litre turbo petrol (100 bhp)
  • 5-speed manual, AMT, and CVT transmission options
  • Fuel efficiency of 19.35 km/l (naturally aspirated) and 20 km/l (turbo)
• Maintenance Advantages
  • Nissan's promise of lowest-in-class maintenance costs
  • Prepaid maintenance packages offering significant savings
  • Service interval of 10,000 km or 12 months
  • Average annual maintenance cost: ₹6,500-8,000
• Key Specifications
  • Boot space: 336 litres
  • Ground clearance: 205 mm
  • Features: 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, 360-degree camera
• Competitors Comparison
  • Approximately 30% lower service costs than segment average
  • Manufacturer-guaranteed maintenance costs for 5 years
  • Better cost of ownership than most compact SUVs

8. Kia Sonet (₹7.99 - 15.69 Lakhs)

• Engine and Performance
• • Multiple engine options: 1.2-litre petrol (83 bhp), 1.0-litre turbo-petrol (120 bhp), and 1.5-litre diesel (116 bhp)
  • Various transmission options including 6-speed iMT and 7-speed DCT
  • Fuel efficiency ranging from 18.2 to 24.1 km/l depending on variant
• Maintenance Advantages
• • Kia's improving service network with 300+ service points
  • Transparent service costs published online
  • Industry-leading warranty of 7 years/1,50,000 km (extendable)
  • Average annual maintenance cost: ₹8,000-10,000
• Key Specifications
• • Boot space: 392 litres
  • Ground clearance: 190 mm
  • Features: 10.25-inch touchscreen, ventilated seats, Bose premium audio
• Competitors Comparison
• • Higher warranty coverage offsetting slightly higher maintenance costs
  • More feature-rich than similarly priced competitors
  • Premium components with better longevity than budget alternatives

9. Maruti Suzuki Ertiga (₹8.69 - 13.03 Lakhs)

• Engine and Performance
  • 1.5-litre K-Series petrol engine producing 103 bhp and 138 Nm torque
  • 5-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmission options
  • Fuel efficiency of 20.51 km/l (manual) and 20.30 km/l (automatic)
  • CNG variant delivering 26.11 km/kg economy
• Maintenance Advantages
  • Maruti's vast service network ensuring competitive maintenance costs
  • Readily available spare parts even in remote areas
  • Service interval of 10,000 km or 12 months
  • Average annual maintenance cost: ₹8,000-9,500
• Key Specifications
  • Boot space: 209 litres (with third row up), 550 litres (with third row folded)
  • Ground clearance: 185 mm
  • Features: 7-inch SmartPlay Studio infotainment, automatic climate control
• Competitors Comparison
  • 30-40% lower maintenance cost than Toyota Innova
  • More affordable spare parts than Kia Carens
  • Higher fuel efficiency reducing running costs

10. Renault Triber (₹6.33 - 9.21 Lakhs)

• Engine and Performance
  • 1.0-litre petrol engine delivering 72 bhp and 96 Nm torque
  • 5-speed manual and AMT transmission options
  • Fuel efficiency of 19 km/l (manual) and 18.2 km/l (AMT)
• Maintenance Advantages
  • Renault's competitive service costs with transparent pricing
  • Simplified engineering with fewer complex components
  • Service interval of 10,000 km or 12 months
  • Average annual maintenance cost: ₹7,000-8,500
• Key Specifications
  • Boot space: 84 litres (with all seats up), 625 litres (with third row removed)
  • Ground clearance: 182 mm
  • Features: 8-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, AC vents for all three rows
• Competitors Comparison
  • Most affordable 7-seater maintenance costs in India
  • Lower spare part prices than similarly sized vehicles
  • More economical running costs than premium MPVs

11. Tata Tiago EV (₹8.69 - 12.04 Lakhs)

• Performance
  • 19.2 kWh and 24 kWh battery pack options
  • Electric motor producing 55 kW (74 bhp) and 114 Nm torque
  • Driving range of 250-315 km (MIDC claimed)
  • 0-60 km/h acceleration in 5.7 seconds
• Maintenance Advantages
  • Significant reduction in moving parts compared to petrol vehicles
  • No oil changes or regular fluid replacements required
  • Service interval of 15,000 km or 12 months
  • Average annual maintenance cost: ₹3,500-5,000
• Key Specifications
  • Boot space: 240 litres
  • Ground clearance: 161 mm
  • Features: 7-inch touchscreen, regenerative braking, connected car features
• Competitors Comparison
  • 40-50% lower maintenance cost than equivalent petrol cars
  • More affordable than MG Comet while offering better range
  • Significantly reduced running costs versus petrol alternatives

12. MG Comet EV (₹7.98 - 9.98 Lakhs)

• Performance
  • 17.3 kWh battery pack
  • Electric motor delivering 42 bhp and 110 Nm torque
  • Claimed range of 230 km on full charge
  • 0-60 km/h acceleration in 6.7 seconds
• Maintenance Advantages
  • Minimal mechanical components requiring service
  • No transmission system to maintain
  • Service interval of 15,000 km or 12 months
  • Average annual maintenance cost: ₹3,000-4,500
• Key Specifications
  • Boot space: 150 litres
  • Compact dimensions ideal for city driving
  • Features: 10.25-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, i-SMART connected tech
• Competitors Comparison
  • Lowest maintenance costs in the passenger car segment
  • An estimated 60% reduction in maintenance versus petrol hatchbacks
  • No oil change or regular fluid replacement costs

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Importance of Car Insurance for Maintenance

Comprehensive car insurance plays a crucial role in managing maintenance costs, particularly for unexpected repairs resulting from accidents or external factors. A well-structured policy from Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company can cover repair expenses that would otherwise significantly impact your maintenance budget. Their policies often include benefits like zero depreciation coverage that ensures full reimbursement for replaced parts without accounting for wear and tear. 

Additionally, having access to Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company's network of 7,200+ cashless garages nationwide mean quality repairs with genuine parts without upfront payment. This network coverage is particularly valuable for low-maintenance car owners, as authorised service centres maintain manufacturer standards for repairs, preserving the vehicle's long-term reliability and resale value.

Conclusion

Choosing a low-maintenance car in India's diverse automotive market requires careful consideration of multiple factors beyond the initial purchase price. The vehicles highlighted in this guide stand out for their combination of affordable service costs, wide spare parts availability, and reliable engineering. Maruti Suzuki continues to dominate the low-maintenance segment due to its extensive service network and economical parts, while brands like Tata and Hyundai offer compelling alternatives with improved build quality and feature sets. 

For the most economical long-term ownership, electric vehicles are emerging as frontrunners with their dramatically reduced maintenance requirements, despite higher upfront costs. Remember that protecting your investment with comprehensive insurance from Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company ensures that unexpected repairs don't derail your maintenance budget, making it an essential consideration for cost-conscious car owners.

FAQs

What defines a low-maintenance car?

A low-maintenance car typically features simpler mechanical engineering with fewer complex components that could fail, widely available and affordable spare parts, extensive service network coverage for competitive labour rates, and fuel-efficient engines that reduce running costs. These vehicles usually require less frequent servicing, have longer service intervals, and historically demonstrate lower incidences of major mechanical failures compared to their peers. 

How do I calculate the total cost of ownership?

Calculate total ownership cost by adding purchase price, depreciation (15-20% annually), fuel expenses (annual mileage ÷ average fuel economy × fuel price), insurance premiums, routine maintenance costs, unexpected repairs, road tax, and registration fees. For accuracy, track all expenses over at least 3-5 years of ownership. Many manufacturers and insurance providers like Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company offer online calculators to help estimate these figures.

Which is the most important car maintenance activity?

Regular engine oil and filter changes are arguably the most crucial maintenance activities as they directly impact engine longevity and performance. Clean oil properly lubricates engine components, reduces wear, removes heat, and prevents sludge formation. Neglecting oil changes can lead to accelerated engine wear, reduced efficiency, and potentially catastrophic engine failure, resulting in repair costs that far exceed the minor expense of routine oil changes.

Which car brands are known for low maintenance in India?

Maruti Suzuki consistently ranks as India's most economical brand for maintenance with its extensive service network and affordable spare parts. Tata Motors has significantly improved reliability while maintaining competitive service costs. Hyundai offers slightly higher maintenance costs, offset by better warranty coverage. Japanese manufacturers like Honda and Toyota provide excellent long-term reliability despite higher service costs, while newcomers like Kia offer transparent maintenance packages to build customer confidence.

How does car insurance impact maintenance costs?

Comprehensive car insurance significantly reduces unplanned maintenance expenses by covering repair costs from accidents, natural disasters, and theft. Insurers like Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company offer add-on covers such as zero depreciation, engine protection, and roadside assistance that particularly benefit maintenance budgets. Their cashless garage facilities eliminate out-of-pocket expenses for covered repairs, while timely claim settlements prevent extended vehicle downtime that could lead to additional problems from prolonged disuse.

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**Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.

***Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making any related decisions.

****Disclaimer: Vehicle specifications, features, and pricing may vary, and it is essential for readers to verify the latest information from authorised dealerships, manufacturers, or reliable sources before making any purchasing decisions.