5 Most Fuel Efficient Cars In India [Best Mileage Cars]

What are the best fuel efficient cars? This is first question snaps into our mind while thinking to purchase a new car or confuse between various option available in the market.

Saying so, there might be several factors to keep in mind while going for a new car. Here, one of the most important terms is the ‘fuel efficiency’ a. k. a. mileage. Yes, we Indian must have listened to this term ‘Kitna deti hai?’ in Maruti’s advertisements. After all, savings matters. Isn’t?

To give you a helping hand, I have curated the list of cars with best mileage in India. That’s not all, you will get to know other useful information like a particular model’s mileage, specifications, price & a lot more.  

This list of most efficient cars include like Maruti’s bestseller – The Swift/Dzire to Tata’s new hatchback – The Tiago & list goes on. So without wasting time, let’s dive to the list of most fuel efficient cars in India. Shall we?

Most Fuel Efficient Cars In India

ModelFuel Efficiency
Volvo XC90 Petrol42.0 kmpl
Maruti Suzuki Swift Diesel28.4 kmpl
Maruti Suzuki Dzire Diesel28.4 kmpl
Tata Tiago Diesel27.28 kmpl
Maruti Suzuki Ciaz Diesel28.09 kmpl
Honda Civic Diesel26.8 kmpl

1. Volvo XC90 Petrol (42.0 kmpl)

It is strange to see a car like Volvo XC90 in the top. Well, this machine deserves the No. 1 spot. Somehow, the luxury SUV churns a mind-boggling fuel efficiency of 42.0 kmpl and that too in petrol trim.

Volvo XC90 Petrol Variant
Volvo XC90 Petrol Variant

Wait! I know what you want to hear now. Is this real? Well, of course, there’s no rocket science behind it!

The Volvo has used a small 2.0-litre twin-turbo engine with a hybrid setup. This includes a rechargeable battery and an electric motor which generates 86 bhp of power. Combining both of the setup, the SUV pops 407 bhp of power and a max. torque of 640 Nm. This power is sent to all wheels via 8-speed auto. transmission.

Pretty sure, you will get top-notch features list without any compromise. Things like Bowers & Wilkins audio, 9-inch touch screen, air suspension with active chassis are few of the highlights.

Volvo XC90 Petrol Mileage (ARAI Approved)

  • ARAI Mileage: 42.0 kmpl
  • Highway Mileage: 38 kmpl
  • City Mileage: 30 kmpl

Volvo XC90 Petrol Specifications

  • Engine: 1.9-litre twin-turbo & supercharge engine
  • Max. Power: 407 bhp
  • Max. Torque: 640 Nm @1740 rpm
  • Transmission: 8-speed automatic
  • Dimensions (LxWxH): 4950 x 2140 x 1776 mm
  • Kerb Weight: 2320 Kg
  • Gross Weight: 2770 Kg
  • Wheel Type & Size: 21-inch Alloys
  • Boot Space: 300 Litres

Volvo XC90 Petrol Price

The price of Volvo XC90 Petrol variant starts from Rs 1.31* Cr and goes up to Rs 1.45* Cr (Ex-showroom)

2. Maruti Suzuki Swift Diesel (28.4 kmpl)

Maruti Swift is one of the most fuel-efficient cars in India. According to Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) and ARAI, Swift’s diesel variant delivers a good fuel efficiency of 28.4 kmpl. Isn’t mind-blowing?

Maruti Suzuki Swift Diesel Model in red color
Maruti Suzuki Swift Diesel Variant

The hatchback has received many accolades like ICOTY (Indian Car Of The Year) 2019, 2012 & 2006, Autoportal India ‘Car Of The Year 2019’, NDTV Car Of The Year & etc. Here, please notice, these were a few reasons that make ‘Maruti Swift’ the bestselling hatchback of the country.

In Feb 2018, the manufacturer re-launched with some minor cosmetic updates. Mechanically, except the transmission changes, it still uses the reliable 1.3-litre DDiS engine that churns 74 bhp of power and 190 Nm of peak torque. Power is sent to front wheels via a 5-speed manual or 5-speed AMT gearbox.

The hatchback sits on Suzuki’s new lightweight HEARTECH platform. Not only light in weight, but this platform has also given the swift more rigidity, balance and better efficiency. This makes the Maruti Swift a fun to drive hatchback.

Maruti Suzuki Swift Diesel Mileage (ARAI Approved)

  • ARAI Mileage: 28.4 kmpl
  • Highway Mileage: 25 kmpl
  • City Mileage: 19.74 kmpl

Maruti Suzuki Swift Diesel Specifications

  • Engine: 1.3-litre DDiS 190 Diesel Engine
  • Max. Power: 74 bhp @4000 rpm
  • Max. Torque: 190 Nm @2000 rpm
  • Transmission: 5-speed manual or 5-speed AMT
  • Dimensions (LxWxH): 3840 x 1735 x 1530 mm
  • Kerb Weight: 985 Kg
  • Gross Weight: 1405 Kg
  • Wheel Type & Size: 15-inch Alloys
  • Boot Space: 268 Litres

Maruti Suzuki Swift Diesel Price

The price of Maruti Suzuki Swift diesel starts at Rs 7.9* lakh and goes up to 10.11* lakh (Ex-showroom).

3. Maruti Suzuki Dzire Diesel (28.4 kmpl)

The new Dzire delivers the same 28.4 kmpl of mileage as we have seen in the Swift Diesel. Well, all thanks to the tried and tested diesel engine from Maruti which delivers uncompromised power with best fuel efficiency.

Maruti Suzuki Dzire Diesel in metallic grey color
Maruti Suzuki Dzire Diesel Variant

Maruti Suzuki is a synonym to most fuel efficient cars around the globe. The Dzire is another example we can see. Just like Swift, the manufacturer re-launched this sedan into a whole new avatar. This includes few cosmetic upgrades including interiors and exteriors.

Engine, transmission and basic architecture is still the same. A 1.3-litre DDiS engine that belts out a good power of 74 bhp and a peak torque of 190 Nm. In transmission, the engine comes mated to a 5-speed manual or 5-speed AMT gearbox.

Both cars share a similar HEARTECH platform, giving the car more strength and a better power to weight ratio. This overall makes the Dzire a better car to drive form the rivals.

Maruti Suzuki Dzire Diesel Mileage (ARAI Approved)

  • ARAI Mileage: 28.4 kmpl
  • Highway Mileage: 25 kmpl
  • City Mileage: 19.74 kmpl

Maruti Suzuki Dzire Diesel Specifications

  • Engine: 1.3-litre DDiS 190 Diesel Engine
  • Max. Power: 73.75 bhp @4000 rpm
  • Max. Torque: 190 Nm @2000 rpm
  • Transmission 5-speed manual or 5-speed AMT
  • Dimensions (LxWxH): 3995 x 1735 x 1515 mm
  • Kerb Weight: 990 Kg
  • Gross Weight: 1405 Kg
  • Wheel Type & Size: 15-inch Alloys
  • Boot Space: 378 Litres

Maruti Suzuki Dzire Diesel Price

Maruti Suzuki Dzire diesel variant would cost you between Rs. 7.66* to 10.89* lakh (Ex-showroom).

4. Tata Tiago Diesel (27.28 kmpl)

Another fuel efficient car in the list – Tata Tiago. Tata motors launched this stylish hatchback back in mid of 2016 (earlier known as Zica). If we look at the sales statistics, this is one of the most efficient cars Tata Motors ever made after Indica.

Tata Tiago Diesel Variant
Tata Tiago Diesel Variant

This fantastic hatchback is based on Tata’s X1 chassis. In case, you don’t know, most of the famous hatchbacks like Indica & Bolt are built on this platform.

Coming to the engine, Tata Tiago comes fitted a powerful 1.05- litre, 3-cylinder Revotorq Diesel Engine that churns a good power of 69 bhp and a healthy torque of 140 Nm. Power gets delivered to front wheels by a 5-speed manual gearbox.

According to the manufacturer, this hatchback is built by keeping millennials in mind. So, is there anything special?

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Yes, a lot of things!

You have the choice to pick from various options like – 7+ vibrant colours (dual-tone*), dual-tone interiors which includes customizable air vents and premium stitching on seats. There is plenty of storage space that will help you to keep your mobile phones and water bottles handy. These were a few names, trust me this hatchback can even give you more surprises.

Tata Tiago Diesel Mileage (ARAI Approved)

  • ARAI Mileage: 27.28 kmpl
  • Highway Mileage: 27 kmpl
  • City Mileage: 23 kmpl

Tata Tiago Diesel Specifications & Price

  • Engine: 1.05- litre, 3-cylinder Revotorq Diesel Engine
  • Max. Power: 69 bhp @4000 rpm
  • Max. Torque: 140 Nm @1800-3000 rpm
  • Transmission: 5-speed manual
  • Dimensions (LxWxH): 3746 x 1647 x 1535 mm
  • Kerb Weight: 1080 Kg
  • Gross Weight: NA
  • Wheel Type & Size: 14-inch Alloys
  • Boot Space: 242 Litres

Tata Tiago Diesel Price

Tata Tiago can be yours at an ex-showroom price of Rs. 5.2* Lakh. You can pick from higher line-up that goes up to 6.8* lakh.

5. Maruti Suzuki Ciaz Diesel (28.09 kmpl)

It is smart, efficient and one of the best-selling sedan of Maruti Suzuki – The Ciaz. Yes, efficient, you read that right. The Maruti Suzuki Ciaz is a face-off competitor of Honda City as well as Hyundai Verna. But, here’s the thing. Both sedans won’t be able to beat the Ciaz, the reason being is the fuel economy. Yes, this entry-level luxury sedan delivers jaw-dropping fuel efficiency of 28.09 kmpl, making this one of the best fuel economy cars of Maruti Suzuki.

Most Fuel Efficient Cars In India
Maruti Suzuki Ciaz Diesel Variant

The Ciaz comes bolted on Suzuki’s new platform known as SUZUKI-TECH body. This new structure has enabled the sedan to absorb more impact during a mishap and also gives it more stability as well as rigidity.

In terms of technology, the sedan comes loaded with tonnes of features. You just think of it and you will find it. Starting with, the Ciaz gets first-in-class Brake Energy Regeneration system, Torque Assist Function & this list goes on.

Mechanically, the diesel variants of Ciaz get a 1.3-litre. 4-cylinder DDiS 200 Diesel Engine that puts 88.50 bhp of power and 200 Nm of peak torque on the plate. In transmission, the power is transmitted to the front wheels via 5-speed manual gearbox.

Being one of the most fuel efficient sedan in India, the Ciaz just doesn’t compromise with the performance and you will be able to feel it. There is no lag from the engine, it feels smooth, planted and gives you the confidence to tackle any corner on the road.

In features, you get all bell and whistles. There are lots of features like Push start-stop button, SmartPlay infotainment system, rear AC vents and lots of safety features.

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Maruti Suzuki Ciaz Diesel Mileage (ARAI Approved)

  • ARAI Mileage: 28 kmpl
  • Highway Mileage: 28 kmpl
  • City Mileage: 21 kmpl

Maruti Suzuki Ciaz Diesel Specifications

  • Engine: 1.3-litre. 4-cylinder DDiS 200
  • Max. Power: 88.50 bhp @4000 rpm
  • Max. Torque: 200 Nm @2000 rpm
  • Transmission: 5-speed manual
  • Dimensions (LxWxH): 4490 x 1730 x 1485 mm
  • Kerb Weight: NA
  • Gross Weight: 1590 Kg
  • Wheel Type & Size: 16-inch Alloys
  • Boot Space: 510 Litres

Maruti Suzuki Ciaz Diesel Price

The base variant of Ciaz diesel starts from Rs 9.2* lakh and goes up to 11.9* lakh (ex-showroom).

6. Honda Civic Diesel (26.8 kmpl)

After a long halt, Honda Car India re-launched their much-awaited luxury sedan – The Honda Civic in March 2019.

Honda Civic 2019 Model
Honda Civic Diesel Variant

Coming to the business! Kitna deti hai? So, according to the manufacturer, the Honda Civic Diesel variants delivers a mind-boggling ARAI fuel economy of 26.8 kmpl. Trust me, this is one of the most fuel efficient cars in this segment. I mean, what else you can expect from a car with this much of comfort & performance?

So, what else you get in all-new Honda Civic? Mechanically, the 10th generation Honda Civic gets a smooth 1.6-litre ‘Earth Dreams Technology’ i-DTEC Diesel Engine. This engine develops a good 118 bhp of power and peak torque of 300 Nm. The luxury sedan comes mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Tagged as one of the most efficient cars in its segment, this car is now lighter and stiffer and one can feel it on highways. It feels planted and offers a comfortable ride, all thanks to the set of Macpherson Strut on the front and an independent multilink unit at the rear.

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Honda Civic Diesel Mileage (ARAI Approved)

  • ARAI Mileage: 27 kmpl
  • Highway Mileage: 25 kmpl
  • City Mileage: 19.7 kmpl

Honda Civic Diesel Specifications

  • Engine: 1.6-litre i-DTEC Diesel Engine
  • Max. Power: 118 bhp @4000 rpm
  • Max. Torque: 300 Nm @2000 rpm
  • Transmission: 6-speed manual
  • Dimensions (LxWxH): 4656 x 1799 x 1433 mm
  • Kerb Weight: 1353 Kg
  • Gross Weight: NA
  • Wheel Type & Size: 17-inch Alloys
  • Boot Space: 430 Litres
  • Price (Diesel variants): Rs. 20.5 – 23.3 Lakh

Honda Civic Diesel Price

Honda Civic offers a starting price of Rs 20.5* lakh for the diesel base variant and Rs 23.3* lakh for top-spec variant.

Most Fuel Efficient Cars In India FAQs:

Which car is best for middle class?

Well, it depends on the size of your family and budget. You can look for Maruti Suzuki Wagon R, Maruti Suzuki Alto or any car that comes with a price bracket of 3-6 lacs.

Which car brand has the best mileage?

In India, no other car manufacturer can beat the Maruti Suzuki in terms of most efficient cars. The company has been manufacturing different fuel efficient car that includes Maruti 800, Alto, Swift and list goes on.

Which is the most fuel efficient car in India?

With a fuel efficiency of 42 kmpl, Volvo XC90 is the car with the best mileage in India.

Which is the cheapest and most fuel-efficient cars in India?

Renault Kwid is the cheapest and most fuel economy cars available in India. The smart little hatch comes with a starting price of Rs 2.92 lakh (ex-showroom) and delivers a good fuel efficiency of 24 kmpl.

Pic Source: The car images shown above belongs to respective blogs and owners

Written by Shailesh Thakran

Hi, I'm think tank behind Throttlebias. I love blogging, mainly about Automobiles. Via Throttlebias, I want to educate & share in-depth articles about Car Detailing and related areas. Outside Throttlebias, I love to write marketing & stuff.

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