Ever wondered which four‑wheeler dominates Indian streets today? The answer isn’t hidden behind fancy ads or celebrity endorsements - it’s plain, everyday data from showrooms across the country. Below we break down the numbers, the reasons behind the leader’s success, and what the next few years could look like for Indian drivers.
How car sales are measured in India
Every time a dealer hands over a set of keys, they report the sale to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) and the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA). Those bodies publish monthly and annual totals that the media, analysts, and car makers all use as the official yardstick.
For a model to be called the most popular car India in any given year, it must have the highest cumulative units sold across all states, not just in metro hubs. The data we cite comes from SIAM’s 2024‑25 annual report, which aggregates 38 million passenger‑vehicle transactions since the fiscal year began.
Leading the pack: Maruti Suzuki Alto is a compact hatchback that has been the best‑selling passenger car in India for more than a decade. Its low price, high fuel efficiency, and extensive service network make it a go‑to choice for first‑time buyers and small‑family owners.
In FY 2024‑25 the Alto moved 1,058,000 units, outpacing the second‑place model by over 180,000 cars. That’s roughly 9 % of all new‑car registrations in the country.
Why does the Alto stay on top?
- Affordability - The base variant starts at INR 3.25 lakh, comfortably within the budget of most Indian households.
- Fuel efficiency - Around 22 km/l in city driving, which translates to lower running costs.
- Service reach - Maruti’s dealer and service‑center network exceeds 2,300 outlets, ensuring quick repairs even in Tier‑III towns.
- Resale value - Used Alti retain about 70 % of their original price after three years, a reassuring figure for buyers looking to upgrade later.
Who’s nipping at the heels?
While the Alto is still king, three models consistently rank in the top five and could overtake it if trends shift.
| Rank | Model | Manufacturer | Units Sold | Price Range (INR lakh) | Segment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Maruti Suzuki Alto | Maruti Suzuki | 1,058,000 | 3.25‑4.50 | Entry‑level hatchback |
| 2 | Hyundai Creta | Hyundai | 935,000 | 9.30‑13.20 | Compact SUV |
| 3 | Kia Seltos | Kia | 820,000 | 9.60‑13.70 | Compact SUV |
| 4 | Tata Nexon | Tata Motors | 750,000 | 8.20‑11.80 | Compact SUV |
| 5 | Mahindra Bolero | Mahindra & Mahindra | 630,000 | 7.70‑9.90 | Mid‑size SUV |
The Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos have surged thanks to a youthful market that prefers higher ground clearance and modern infotainment. Tata’s Nexon remains a favorite for its rugged design and strong safety scores, while Mahindra’s Bolero dominates rural and semi‑urban regions where durability trumps style.
Regional quirks: where the Alto shines most
Sales data shows the Alto leads in every state, but the margin is especially wide in North‑East and parts of Bihar‑Jharkhand, where price sensitivity is highest. In contrast, the Kangra valley and Kerala see a higher share of SUVs because of narrow roads and monsoon conditions that demand better ground clearance.
What’s next? The EV wave and its impact on the ‘most popular’ title
India’s government has set a target of 30 % electric‑vehicle (EV) sales by 2030. The upcoming Tata Tiago EV and Maruti’s partnership with Stellantis to launch a low‑cost electric hatchback could reshape the leaderboard. Early adopters are already gravitating toward the Tata Nexon EV, which sold 115,000 units in FY 2024‑25 - a 45 % jump from the previous year.
If the EV price premium continues to shrink, the traditional “most popular” metric may shift from sheer volume to a blend of internal‑combustion and electric numbers. The Alto’s platform is being inspected for a future electric variant, which could keep it in the driver’s seat as the market transitions.
Choosing the right car in India - practical tips
- Set a realistic budget. Include insurance, registration, and fuel costs, not just the on‑road price.
- Prioritize fuel efficiency. With fuel prices hovering around INR 110 per litre, a car that offers 20 km/l or more pays off quickly.
- Check service network density. A brand with over 2,000 service points saves you time and money in the long run.
- Consider resale value. Models that retain 65‑70 % after three years are safer investments.
- Look at safety ratings. The Global NCAP now rates Indian cars; a 4‑star rating should be a baseline.
- Future‑proof for EVs. If you plan to keep the car for 7+ years, think about upcoming electric alternatives and charging infrastructure in your city.
Following these steps will help you avoid the common buyer’s remorse that many first‑time owners experience.
Quick reference checklist
- Top seller 2025: Maruti Suzuki Alto
- Best value: Alto (price‑to‑features ratio)
- Fast‑growing segment: Compact SUVs (Creta, Seltos, Nexon)
- Emerging trend: Electric hatchbacks and compact SUVs
- Key buying factors: Cost, fuel efficiency, service network, resale value
Which car sold the most units in India in 2025?
The Maruti Suzuki Alto topped the charts with just over 1 million units sold in FY 2024‑25, making it the most popular car in the country.
Why do Indian buyers prefer the Alto over SUVs?
Affordability, low running costs, and a massive service network give the Alto a practical edge for daily commuting, especially in price‑sensitive regions.
How much does an Alto cost?
The base variant starts at INR 3.25 lakh on‑road, while the top variant with automatic transmission is around INR 4.5 lakh.
Are there any electric cars that could challenge the Alto’s sales?
Tata’s Nexon EV and upcoming low‑cost electric hatchbacks from Maruti‑Stellantis are gaining traction and may become serious contenders as government incentives increase.
What safety features should I look for in an Indian‑made car?
Aim for at least dual‑front airbags, ABS with EBD, and a Global NCAP rating of 4 stars or higher. Recent models from Maruti, Hyundai, and Tata have upgraded their safety suites.