Writing a single article about the top 10 cars in India is a difficult task. This is because the purchasing powers as well as the choices of the Indian consumers have undergone a sea of changes in the last couple of decades. Beginning from a time in the 1990’s when there were only a couple of models to choose from, it is the time now when every segment is flooded with choices for the average consumer. Some of the best cars in each segment of the Indian market have been listed below:
1. Toyota Fortuner:
A recent launch to the Indian market, Toyota Fortuner is an expensive proposition. However, that is what its meant to be as it is positioned as a premium vehicle. However Toyota Fortuner is considered value for money in its class. It has huge space, comfortable seating and a powerful diesel engine. Its stunning looks and great performance are making it a vehicle of choice amongst India’s nouveau riche.
2. Toyota Qualis:
The Toyota Qualis was Indian customers ticket to freedom from the low cost and low quality local Utility Vehicles. The Utility Vehciles that the Indian customer was sued to driving was noisy, uncomfortable as well took a toll on the driver. The Qualis with a 2.4 litre engine available in both petrol and diesel variants was fuel efficient as well as a pleasure to drive. This is what made Qualis an instant hit with the people.
3. Tata Safari:
Tata Safari was India’s answer to the likes of Pajero and Prado. Every Safari cam e fitted with a powerful engine that would make driving a pleasure for the owner. This made Tata Safari a vehicle of choice for anyone who wanted to look stylish and yet wanted to have an affordable car. Also, the mileage was great and the vehicle was known for its sturdiness. All said and done, Tata Safari would not burn a hole in your pocket and still give you the pleasure of an SUV.
4. Skoda Octavia:
Skoda Octavia did well in the Indian market because of its performance. The car was known for not being wobbly at high speeds, having a great fuel efficient as well as powerful engine and having a giant boot. The car gave a mileage of 17-19 kmpl on a diesel engine. The Indian market did not find paying the upfront cost an issue if the vehicle was less expensive to maintain.
5. Honda Civic:
The Honda Civic eas a car high in style quotient. Its aerodynamic design was a symbol of coolness as well as the fact that it had been manufactured by Honda ensured that it was a quality product. The car is also easy to handle and is very high on driver comfort.
6. Maruti Esteem:
The Maruti Esteem was India’s first mid sized sedan. Using Maruti’s standard formula of low cost servicing, spare parts and fuel efficient cars, this model too was an instant hit with the price conscious Indian customer
7. Honda City:
The Honda City was a status symbol for the Indian middle class. The car came with a slightly higher price tag than its competitors, looked good and was great on performance. Honda City service centers were also known for their quality.
8. Maruti 800:
The car for the Indian masses, Maruti 800 is just what an average Indian would want it to be. The shabby and crowded roads do not need a vehicle that can speed as it would be pointless. The average Indian needs a fuel efficient car with a small engine to help him navigate through the crowded streets and park with ease. Maruti 800 has fit the bill very well. Sales of Maryti 800 have shown no signs of dropping even after a decade as the company has launched numerous models.
9. Hyundai Santro:
The Hyundai Santro is probably the only car that has sales as impressive as the Maruti 800. This car too has been present in the Indian market for over a decade and every new model has been welcomed by customers with open arms. The car is all that Maruti 800 is fuel efficient, small but spacious with a reasonable powerful engine but has more style. The mass affluent class of India could afford its price tag and the car sold like hot cakes.
10. Maruti Swift:
The Maruti Swift later took the baton from the Hyundai Santro and became one of the most popular models being sold after its launch. It was full of features like height adjustable seat, automatic breaking system, climate control system etc. It was also known for its excellent mileage of 1`8-20 kmpl. This is what made the Swift a runaway success. Its diesel version was one of the most successful vehicles amidst global recession.
