India’s Cheapest Car Makes History: Maruti Suzuki S-Presso Crosses 3 Lakh Sales in India, Over 4.7 Lakh Units Including Exports

102
02 Jan 2026
min read

News Synopsis

Maruti Suzuki’s compact SUV-styled hatchback, the S-Presso, has achieved a major milestone in India. Since its launch in September 2019, the car has sold more than 3 lakh units domestically, and total sales — including exports — have crossed 4.72 lakh units, making it one of the most successful budget cars in the country.

India’s Cheapest Car Creates History, Sells Over 3 Lakh Units

Maruti Suzuki’s small SUV-like car, the S-Presso, has created history. The car has crossed the milestone of 3 lakh units sold in the domestic market.

Launched in September 2019, the S-Presso managed to sell a total of 3,10,138 units in India by the end of November 2025.

If we add the 1,62,150 units exported overseas, the total number reaches over 4.72 lakh units — a clear testimony to its success.

Beating Competitors in Sales

At the time of its launch, the S-Presso competed directly with other hatchbacks. It rivalled the Renault Kwid and Maruti Suzuki’s own popular model, the Alto.

The S-Presso performed far better than the Renault Kwid (1.45 lakh units).
Among Maruti’s cheapest cars (Alto and S-Presso combined), the S-Presso alone contributes 25% of total sales — showing just how popular it has become among customers.

Massive Price Drop After GST Reduction

At the end of September 2025, the central government approved new GST rules, which reduced the tax on certain cars.

Due to this tax cut, the price of the S-Presso dropped significantly — by ₹1.20 lakh.

Now, the starting ex-showroom price of the S-Presso is just ₹3.50 lakh, making it the cheapest car in India.

In comparison, the starting price of the Maruti Alto is ₹3.70 lakh ex-showroom.

Engine and Mileage

The Maruti Suzuki S-Presso is not only affordable — it is also economical to run. Its running cost remains very low.

The car is available in 8 variants, and customers get the option of both petrol and CNG.

  • It comes with a 1.0-litre engine, available with manual and AMT automatic gearboxes.

  • The petrol engine produces 68 hp and 91 Nm of torque, delivering 25.30 km/l mileage.

  • The CNG variant generates 56 hp and 82 Nm of torque, offering an impressive 32.73 km/kg mileage.

Will Budget Cars Make a Comeback?

Despite major price cuts and discounts, challenges for budget cars remain.

Data shows that compared to last year, sales of budget cars have declined by 25%.

Although Maruti’s total sales grew by 27% in November 2025, long-term demand for small cars is still weak.

Today’s customers — even in smaller towns — are increasingly preferring SUVs and compact SUVs over budget hatchbacks.

Easy financing and lower interest rates have raised aspirations, encouraging buyers to move from small cars toward premium vehicles.

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