If your budget is below ₹10 lakh, you have never had finer and safer choices. Carmakers are squeezing more features and enhanced safety into lower-priced models. From small hatchbacks to feature-loaded SUVs, there is a blend of design, performance, and affordability. Let’s consider three cars that are notable in this segment.

Maruti Suzuki Celerio

Celerio has just been upgraded big time, and now it is one of India’s cheapest cars with top-end safety. Maruti Suzuki now equips this hatchback with 6 airbags, making it a leader in the entry-segment. It is priced at ₹5.64 lakh (ex-showroom). The car comes with airbags along with a three-point seatbelt for all passengers, pre-tensioners, force limiters, and seatbelt reminders.

To improve safety further, Celerio has reverse parking sensors, hill-hold assist, and an electronic stability program (ESP). These features make it a wonderful option for first-time buyers seeking value and assurance.

Hyundai Grand i10 NIOS

Grand i10 NIOS is equipped with 6 airbags as a standard feature on all versions, providing Hyundai with an advantage in the budget safety stakes. The hatchback is snappy in design and costs from ₹5.92 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards. This car has been powered by a 1.2-litre engine that produces 82 bhp and 114 Nm of torque, and choices include 5-speed manual or AMT gearboxes.

Safety features in this model comprise ABS with EBD, tyre pressure monitoring system, three-point seat belts, and rear parking sensors with a camera. All these make it an intelligent choice for whoever wishes to have a fine balance of comfort, performance, and safety.

Nissan Magnite

Nissan has updated the Magnite with a facelift and made it India’s best-value compact SUV at ₹6.12 lakh (ex-showroom). The entry-level Visia trim now comes with 6 airbags, providing great safety without burning a hole in your pocket. The hood has two engine choices — a naturally aspirated 1-litre engine with 71 bhp and 96 Nm torque, and a 1-litre turbo variant engine that churns out 99 bhp and 160 Nm torque.

In features, Magnite is filled to the brim with ABS with EBD, a tyre pressure monitoring system, and even a 360-degree camera on top trims. The two supplements add premium offerings to a price that’s very affordable, particularly for an SUV.