Small Automatic Cars in India 2023

Picture yourself stuck in city traffic, surrounded by crawling cars at the front and impatient honking from behind. This isn’t just a figment of your imagination; we’ve all experienced this frustrating situation. And to make matters worse, you have to deal with the repetitive and nerve-racking task of shifting gears. It’s times like these when we can’t help but appreciate the convenience of small automatic hatchback cars.

This makes many people preferring hatchbacks as their everyday ride.

The increasing popularity of hatchbacks with automatic gearboxes is evident in the numbers as they are economical and fuel-efficient, capturing the hearts of countless customers.

Curious about the best small automatic cars available in India? Let’s dive into the list and explore some superb options below.

Also Read – Best Fuel Efficient Cars In India

Best Small Automatic Cars in India

Maruti Suzuki Alto K10

Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 is a highly popular and affordable car among the Indian masses due to its practicality and affordability. Despite being the smallest car in the Maruti lineup, it offers great value for money. 

Powered by a peppy 67 PS, 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, the Alto K10 delivers an impressive ARAI-certified fuel efficiency of 24.9kmpl, making it ideal for those seeking an enjoyable yet economical driving experience. Notably, the car features an efficient AMT gearbox that complements the engine, providing a confident performance for city driving and overtaking. Furthermore, compared to its sibling, the Alto 800, Alto K10 offers increased space and comfort, accommodating up to four passengers along with ample luggage, making it an excellent choice for small families and everyday commuting.

Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 Key Spec

• Engine: 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol
• Power: 66HP
• Transmission: AMT
• Fuel Efficiency: 24.9 kmpl
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Seating Capacity: 5

Also Read – Cheapest AMT Car In India

Maruti Suzuki S-Presso

Maruti Suzuki S-Presso was designed with the aim of offering Alto K10 owners an opportunity to step up to a higher seating. Its tall yet narrow body surprises with its spacious interior, comfortably accommodating four passengers. Positioned as a quirky hatchback, the S-Presso focuses on its ground clearance, though it may not be the most thrilling car for driving enthusiasts. However, as a practical entry-level family car, it excels, sharing the same setup as the Alto K10 for a familiar driving experience. Overall, the S-Presso appeals to customers in search of a versatile and spacious hatchback with SUV-like styling, backed by Maruti Suzuki’s trusted reliability, making it an enticing choice for those looking to upgrade within the brand’s lineup.

Maruti Suzuki S-Presso Key Spec

• Engine: 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol
• Power:. 66HP 
• Transmission: AMT
• Fuel Efficiency: 25.3 kmpl
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Seating Capacity: 5

Renault Kwid

Renault Kwid has successfully captured the attention of discerning customers by delivering a hatchback that excels in design and interior space. Powered by a spirited 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine generating 68 horsepower, it offers respectable performance. However, some customers have noted that its automatic manual transmission lacks immediate response compared to its Maruti Suzuki counterpart. Despite this minor setback, Kwid compensates with an impressive range of useful features, showcasing Renault’s attention to detail. With its winning combination of design, spaciousness, and thoughtful features, Kwid stands out as a formidable competitor in the highly competitive hatchback market.

Renault Kwid Key Spec

• Engine: 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol
• Power: 67HP
• Transmission: 5-speed AMT
• Fuel Efficiency: 22.3 kmpl
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Seating Capacity: 5

Also Read – Best Petrol Cars In India

Maruti Suzuki Celerio

Maruti Suzuki Celerio stands as a prime example of the brand’s focus on fuel efficiency in India. This hatchback holds the title of being the country’s most fuel-efficient car, with the automatic variant boasting an impressive ARAI certified fuel efficiency of 26.68kmpl, while the manual variant offers 24.97kmpl. The second generation of the Celerio has seen improvements in size, resulting in increased boot capacity and interior space, solidifying its position as a go-to entry-level car in India. Powered by a 1.0-litre engine, the Celerio may not be the most powerful in its segment, but it offers efficient performance with linear power delivery. The AMT transmission complements the engine, ensuring smooth operation even in challenging traffic conditions.

Maruti Suzuki Celerio Key Spec

• Engine: 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol
• Power: 66HP
• Transmission: 5-speed AMT
• Fuel Efficiency: 26 kmpl
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Seating Capacity: 5

Also Read – What Is ABS

Maruti Suzuki Wagon R

Maruti Suzuki’s Wagon R is a leading best-seller for a reason. It offers practicality and impressive utility, along with the brand’s renowned reliability. The hatchback addresses the issue of limited headspace with its spacious second row and feature-loaded cabin. It shares its powertrain with other entry-level models but stands out by providing a 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. Additionally, Maruti Suzuki offers the convenience of an automatic gearbox option for both the 1.0 and 1.2-litre engines. With its commitment to customer satisfaction, Wagon R continues to be a popular choice, offering practicality, ample space, and impressive features for a comfortable and reliable driving experience.

Maruti Suzuki Wagon R Key Specs

• Engine: 1.0-litre three-cylinder/1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol
• Power: 66HP/88 HP
• Transmission: 5-speed AMT
• Fuel Efficiency: 25.19 kmpl/23.56 kmpl
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Seating Capacity: 5

Also Read – Best SUVs In India

Tata Tiago

If you’re considering a switch from Maruti Suzuki, Tata Tiago presents an excellent alternative. This hatchback stands out with its impressive design, interior, and outstanding performance in the Global NCAP crash test. Responding to customer demand, Tata Motors has introduced an automatic transmission option for added convenience. Powered by a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, the Tiago delivers decent power, although it may not match the refinement of Maruti Suzuki’s four-cylinder engines. Notably, Tiago earns a remarkable 4-star rating from Global NCAP, ensuring top-notch safety, and it features a standout 8-speaker Harman audio system, providing exceptional audio quality. With its winning combination of style, interior, safety, and audio experience, Tata Tiago presents an appealing choice for those seeking a hatchback that excels on multiple fronts.

Tata Tiago Key Specs

• Engine: 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol
• Power: 85HP
• Transmission: 5-speed AMT
• Fuel Efficiency: 19 kmpl
• Fuel Type: Petrol 
• Seating Capacity: 5

Also Read – Car Segment

Maruti Suzuki Ignis

Maruti Suzuki Ignis may not have the most desirable interior, but its engine refinement sets it apart from its rivals, particularly when compared to the Punch. Although comparing a three-cylinder and a four-cylinder engine might seem irrelevant, the Ignis and Punch are directly compared, necessitating a note on this aspect.

Similar to the Wagon R, Ignis is equipped with a 1.2-liter four-cylinder petrol engine. Additionally, the hatchback is marketed as a quirky hatchback, much like the S-Presso, which gives it a slightly gimmicky appeal. In terms of space, Ignis is on par with the Punch. However, its features are basic and could benefit from reevaluation in order to pose a strong challenge to its rivals.

Maruti Suzuki Ignis Key Spec

• Engine: 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol
• Power: 82HP
• Transmission: 5-speed AMT
• Fuel Efficiency: 20.89 kmpl
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Seating Capacity: 5

Hyundai Grand i10 NIOS

Hyundai Grand i10 NIOS is an often overlooked gem in the sea of cars, boasting a plethora of features without compromising on quality. Despite lacking the recognition it deserves, it stands out when compared to Hyundai’s other models like the Alcazar and new generation Verna, which have received more marketing attention. Equipped with a 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and a 5-speed AMT transmission, Grand i10 NIOS may not offer the most exhilarating performance, but it shines in city driving, particularly in congested traffic. However, what truly sets it apart is its spacious and comfortable interior, providing generous legroom for five passengers. Whether it’s a short trip or a long journey, Grand i10 NIOS ensures a comfortable experience for everyone on board.

Hyundai Grand i10 NIOS Key Specs

• Engine: 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol
• Power: 82HP
• Transmission: 5-speed AMT
• Fuel Efficiency: NA
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Seating Capacity: 5

Tata Punch

Tata Punch is an excellent choice for buyers seeking a compact hatchback without compromising on road presence. With its modern design, SUV-like stance, and abundance of features, it stands out from the crowd. 

Powered by a 1.2-liter three-cylinder petrol engine and available with an automatic gearbox, Punch is ideal for city driving, although sometimes it may lack a power burst.

Tata Motors has made significant strides in safety, and Punch has earned an impressive 5-star rating from the Global NCAP. Additionally, its spacious interior, ample boot capacity, and feature-packed cabin make it a comprehensive package.

Tata Punch Key Spec

• Engine: 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol
• Power: 87HP
• Transmission: 5-speed AMT
• Fuel Efficiency: 18.8 kmpl
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Seating Capacity: 5

Maruti Suzuki Swift

Maruti Suzuki’s Swift has become a dream come true for many Indians seeking their own car, evident by its dominating sales figures. The hatchback offers reliable performance and affordability, making it an ideal choice for first-time car buyers. Powered by a 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, Swift delivers sufficient power for city driving and highway journeys, while the 5-speed automated manual transmission (AMT) adds convenience. With an impressive fuel efficiency of 22.56kmpl according to ARAI, Swift proves to be a cost-effective option for daily use. While it may not have advanced gadgets or cutting-edge technology, the Swift’s straightforward approach and value for money, coupled with its compact and sporty design, continue to attract a wide range of Indian customers, making it an irresistible choice for many.

Maruti Suzuki Swift Key Spec

• Engine: 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol
• Power: 88.5 HP
• Transmission: 5-speed AMT
• Fuel Efficiency: 22.56 kmpl
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Seating Capacity: 5

Conclusion: Small Automatic Cars in India

Narrow roads, scarce parking spaces, and a rising population that will increase traffic and the number of pedestrians will make small automatic cars a common fixture on our Indian roads, despite the shift towards compact SUVs. The relative affordability of these small automatic cars make them the ideal choice, whether it is commuting to the office, dropping the kids to school, grocery shopping, or just an excursion with your family.

If you are a newly trained driver or about to learn driving, a small automatic car will be ideal as it reduces the learning curve of actually driving the car, leaving you to focus more on the road and traffic around you.

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FAQs about Small Automatic Cars

Are used automatic cars worth investing in?

If the cars are in good condition and everything has been accounted for, then a used automatic is a good investment.

Why buy an automatic transmission car?

Although this depends on user preference, automatic cars are easy to drive compared to manual transmissions and are a real boon to stop-and-go city traffic.

Why are small cars good for city commute?

Small cars are easier to manoeuvre than big cars, give better mileage and can be parked in smaller places easily. That is why small cars are better for city commuting.

Which is best small automatic car?

If you want a car that is good on both budget and mileage, then Datsun Redi Go is the car to buy. However, if you quality and safety are your top priorities, then Tata Tiago is your car. Similarly, if you are looking for cars that have good sales and support service, then cars from the Maruti Suzuki stable are your best bet.

Why do the Renault Kwid, Maruti Suzuki Ignis and S-Presso look different from other cars?

These three cars follow an SUV design concept, which is why these cars look very different from the usual small car design.