India’s Cheapest Car Makes History: Maruti Suzuki S-Presso Crosses 3 Lakh Sales Milestone

Maruti Suzuki’s budget-friendly S-Presso has created a new success story in the Indian automobile market. Known for its SUV-like stance and affordability, the S-Presso has crossed an impressive domestic sales milestone — proving that small cars still have loyal fans.

India’s Cheapest Car Creates History: Over 3 Lakh Units Sold

Maruti Suzuki’s compact car S-Presso has set a remarkable record in India.
Since its launch in September 2019, the car has sold 3,10,138 units in the domestic market by the end of November 2025.

If exports are included — 1,62,150 units shipped overseas — total sales cross 4.72 lakh units, highlighting its strong acceptance globally.

Outperformed Rivals in the Segment

At launch, S-Presso directly competed with entry-level hatchbacks like:

• Renault Kwid

• Maruti Suzuki Alto

In comparison, S-Presso significantly outperformed Renault Kwid, which recorded only 1.45 lakh units in sales.

Among Maruti’s budget cars (Alto + S-Presso), the S-Presso alone contributes 25% of total sales, proving just how popular it has become.

GST Reduction Led to Major Price Drop

In September 2025, the central government approved new GST rules that reduced tax on certain vehicles.
As a result, S-Presso prices dropped by ₹1.20 lakh.

Today, its starting ex-showroom price is just ₹3.50 lakh, making it India’s most affordable car.
In comparison, the Maruti Alto starts at ₹3.70 lakh (ex-showroom).

Engine and Mileage: Affordable and Fuel-Efficient

The S-Presso is not just cheap — it is also economical to run.

• Available in 8 variants

• Offered with Petrol and CNG options

• Equipped with a 1.0-litre engine

• Comes with manual and AMT (automatic) transmission options

Petrol Variant

• Power: 68 hp

• Torque: 91 Nm

• Mileage: 25.30 kmpl

CNG Variant

• Power: 56 hp

• Torque: 82 Nm

• Mileage: 32.73 kmpl

This makes S-Presso one of the most fuel-efficient entry-level cars in India.

Will Budget Cars Make a Comeback?

Despite price cuts and discounts, challenges remain for small cars.

• Sales of budget vehicles have dropped by 25% year-on-year

• Although Maruti saw a 27% sales increase in November 2025, long-term demand for small cars remains weak

Today’s buyers — even in smaller towns — increasingly prefer:

• SUVs

• Compact SUVs

Easier financing and lower interest rates have encouraged consumers to upgrade to premium vehicles instead of sticking to basic entry-level cars.