Fuel efficiency and running costs remain key considerations for Indian car buyers, especially as petrol prices hover around Rs 100 in many cities. As such, the demand for fuel-efficient vehicles continues to rise. Maruti Suzuki, known for its fuel-efficient models, dominates this list, which highlights the top 10 petrol cars and SUVs available in India. The following rankings are based on official ARAI fuel efficiency figures, but real-world mileage may vary depending on driving conditions and individual driving habits. This list accounts for both manual and automatic versions, using an average of both figures where applicable.
10. Maruti Suzuki Ignis: 20.89 km/l
The Maruti Suzuki Ignis, powered by a 1.2-litre K-series petrol engine, offers a mileage of 20.89 km/l across both manual and AMT variants. Known for its frugality and smoothness, this engine is also found in other popular Maruti models like the Swift and Dzire. Although the Ignis once featured a 1.3-litre diesel engine, it was discontinued due to stricter emission norms. The Ignis is available exclusively through Maruti’s premium Nexa outlets.
9. Renault Kwid: 22.1 km/l
The Renault Kwid makes an appearance as the only non-Maruti vehicle in this list, thanks to its impressive 1.0-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine. With a fuel efficiency of 22.1 km/l, the Kwid stands out for its compact size, making it perfect for navigating congested city streets. Despite its affordable price, however, the engine lacks refinement and can be a bit noisy. It presents a worthy alternative to Maruti’s Alto K10 with better cabin space and maneuverability.
8. Maruti Suzuki Fronx/Toyota Taisor – 22.34 km/l
The Maruti Fronx, a coupe-crossover variant of the Baleno, shares a 1.2-litre petrol engine with its sibling, returning a combined mileage of 22.34 km/l in both manual and AMT versions. Its more powerful turbo-petrol engine offers slightly lower efficiency. Toyota’s Taisor, a rebadged version of the Fronx, shares identical fuel efficiency figures.
7. Maruti Suzuki Baleno/Toyota Glanza: 22.64 km/l
The Maruti Baleno and Toyota Glanza both feature a 1.2-litre petrol engine, offering a combined fuel efficiency of 22.64 km/l. Available in manual and AMT options, both cars deliver smooth, efficient performance around town, although their mid-range power could be improved. Despite the AMT transmission not being the most refined, these hatchbacks remain practical and fuel-efficient.
6. Maruti Suzuki Alto K10: 24.65 km/l
The Alto K10, Maruti’s most affordable car, features a 1.0-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine with an impressive fuel economy of 24.65 km/l. This small, agile vehicle offers excellent fuel efficiency, but its higher variants can be quite pricey for an entry-level car. Nonetheless, the Alto K10 remains a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking efficiency and a fun driving experience.
5. Maruti Suzuki S-Presso: 24.72 km/l
The Maruti S-Presso, powered by a 1.0-litre engine, offers a fuel efficiency of 24.72 km/l on average. Its tall-boy design provides ample space while maintaining a compact footprint, making it ideal for city driving. The S-Presso’s practicality, combined with its affordable price and decent fuel efficiency, places it just ahead of the Alto K10.
4. Maruti Suzuki Wagon R 1.0: 24.77 km/l
The Maruti Wagon R 1.0, a favorite for its practicality and spacious cabin, delivers a fuel efficiency of 24.77 km/l for the manual variant. The automatic variant is even more efficient, returning 25.19 km/l. With a spacious interior and the choice between a 1.0-litre and 1.2-litre engine, the Wagon R is a top choice for those seeking a versatile and fuel-efficient city car.
3. Maruti Suzuki Dzire: 25.25 km/l
The Maruti Dzire, the most fuel-efficient compact sedan, offers an average fuel economy of 25.25 km/l. Powered by the 1.2-litre Z-series engine, the Dzire has seen a notable improvement in fuel efficiency, up by 7 percent compared to previous models. With a refined cabin, comfortable ride, and impressive mileage, it remains a strong contender in the compact sedan segment.
2. Maruti Suzuki Swift: 25.30 km/l
The Maruti Swift’s fourth-generation model, with a 1.2-litre, three-cylinder engine, returns an average fuel efficiency of 25.30 km/l. The engine focuses on efficiency, producing slightly less power than the previous four-cylinder unit, but making up for it with improved fuel economy. The Swift’s lively performance and efficient fuel consumption make it a favorite among small car buyers.
1. Maruti Suzuki Celerio: 25.96 km/l
At the top of the list is the Maruti Suzuki Celerio, which boasts an outstanding fuel economy of 25.96 km/l. This is made possible by the DualJet K10 1.0-litre petrol engine and the lightweight Heartect platform. The Celerio’s combination of efficiency, affordability, and ease of driving makes it the most fuel-efficient pure-petrol car currently available in India.
These top 10 fuel-efficient vehicles showcase Maruti Suzuki’s dominance in the segment, offering a range of options for those looking to cut down on running costs without compromising on performance.
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