India's 10 most popular pre-owned cars

India’s used car market is booming, with thousands of pre-owned vehicles changing hands every day. The market offers a wide variety of options at affordable prices compared to brand-new cars. If you're looking to buy a used car but aren't sure where to start, this comprehensive guide on the top 10 best second-hand cars in India will help you make an informed decision.

Which used car is best to buy?
 

Price is one of the most important factors to consider when looking for the best used car to buy in India. This includes the initial purchase price as well as expected operating costs over the next few years for insurance, fuel, and regular servicing or repairs. It's advisable to go for cars from reputed brands as they will have lower maintenance costs. Fuel efficiency is another important factor, especially running costs. Petrol cars with newer and smaller engines will be more efficient. Reliability is also crucial - check the vehicle's service history and get a mechanic to inspect for any existing issues. 

Here are some of the best used cars to buy based on these parameters.

1. Maruti Suzuki Celerio
                                                                       

The Celerio is a popular budget hatchback known for its low cost of ownership. It's available in both petrol and CNG variants, with the CNG version being more fuel efficient. Spare parts are easily available since it's a Maruti. With proper service history, a 3 to 4-year-old Celerio can go for another 5+ years without many issues.

2. Maruti Wagon R 
 

The Wagon R is the best-selling hatchback in India with good reason. As a used buy, it offers plenty of space, reliability, and affordable maintenance costs. Both petrol as well as CNG versions are economical to run.

3. Hyundai i10
 

The i10 is a dependable hatchback with a solid build quality. Its resale value holds well due to its strong brand recognition. It has petrol as well as diesel engines, though diesel will cost more to maintain. For hassle-free ownership, an i10 that is 3-5 years old is a recommendable buy.

4. Maruti Swift
 

The Swift is a driver's delight with its zippy performance and handling. Post-warranty repairs tend to be economical since it's a Maruti. Petrol Swifts that are 4 to 6 years old offer good value, provided they have been well taken care of.

5. Honda Amaze
 

The Amaze is a comfortable, spacious sedan that's easy on the pocket. Its diesel engine shines for efficiency. Honda cars age gracefully and an Amaze that is 5 to 7 years old makes for a solid long-term prospect, especially diesel variants.

Best 2nd hand cars under ₹5 lakhs
 

For buyers on a tight budget, here are some of the best used cars to consider under Rs. 5 lakhs:

1. Maruti Alto 800
 

Reliable and affordable, the Alto is ideal for basic city commutes. With proper service history, a 2015-16 Alto in good condition can be had under Rs. 3 lakhs. It may not be fancy but will get you from A to B without trouble. 

2. Datsun Redi-Go
 

The Redi-Go offers surprising space in a tiny package. Low maintenance costs make it economical as a used buy. A 2017-18 model with average kilometres is available under Rs. 4 lakhs.

3. Renault KWID
 

The KWID offers compact convenience along with features like an infotainment system. For under Rs. 4.5 lakhs, one in very good shape from 2018-19 is a viable option. Availability of parts will not be an issue.

4. Maruti Wagon R
 

The Wagon R is the most affordable 5-seater hatchback. A 2015-16 model can come under Rs. 4 lakhs. Its proven reliability and efficacy make it worth considering despite an average rear seat space.

5. Hyundai Grand i10
 

The i10 offers greater creature comforts than its competitors. For under Rs. 4.5 lakhs, one just 2-3 years old with low kilometres can be a sensible choice. The build quality of Hyundai is hard to beat in this price bracket.

Best used cars to buy under ₹10 lakhs
 

For a higher budget of under Rs. 10 lakhs, here are some of the best used car options:

1. Maruti Swift
 

The Swift is a fun-to-drive hatchback that retains its value well. A 2018-19 model with 30-40k kilometres covered will cost around Rs. 6-7 lakhs, offering many years of comfortable ownership.

2. Hyundai Verna
 

The Verna is a feature-loaded, spacious sedan. For under Rs. 8 lakhs, a 2018 model in good condition makes for a practical family car. The resale value of Hyundai as well as its reliability are points in its favour.

3. Volkswagen Polo
 

The Polo boasts European solidity at an affordable price point. A 2015-16 1.5L variant can be had under Rs. 6 lakhs and will run well with proper care. Parts may cost more but the quality is top-notch. 

4. Honda City
 

Offering space, comfort, and frugality, the City makes economic sense. A 2017 diesel model from a reputed dealer should be available under Rs. 9 lakhs. Honda’s resale value holds well and low maintenance keeps costs down.

5. Maruti Ciaz
 

The Ciaz is a spacious, feature-rich sedan that's easy on the pocketbook. A 2018 Ciaz Sigma with average kilometres covered can be found under Rs. 8 lakhs, promising excellent value over the long run thanks to its low running costs.

6. Hyundai Grand i10
 

As a used buy, the sophisticated yet affordable i10 shines for its quality and reliability. For under Rs. 6 lakhs, a 2015-16 variant offers many years of comfortable touring. Spare parts are readily available.

Best used SUVs to buy under ₹15 lakhs
 

For those looking for an SUV, here are some popular options under Rs. 15 lakhs:

1. Maruti Vitara Brezza 

The Brezza is a highly practical compact SUV. In this budget, a 2018 ZXi variant with less than 50,000 kilometres covered makes for a solid choice. Expect it to easily last over 5 years with low maintenance costs.

2. Ford EcoSport
 

The EcoSport offers SUV functionality in a compact package. A 2017 Titanium variant with average kilometres covered will set you back around Rs. 9-10 lakhs, promising dependable performance over the years ahead.

3. Renault Duster
 

The Duster offers the ruggedness of an SUV at an affordable price point. For under Rs. 11 lakhs, one just 2-3 years old with low kilometres covered makes economic sense as a used buy. Parts will also be available easily.

4. Mahindra Scorpio
 

The Scorpio is a competent, go-anywhere SUV. In this budget, a 2015-16 S10 variant with 50,000 average kilometres will prove a spacious, robust performer for all needs. With proper maintenance, expect it to last over a decade.

5. Hyundai Creta
 

The Creta delivers a premium experience for less. A 2018 SX variant with under 40,000 kilometres covered can be found under Rs. 12 lakhs. Hyundai’s reliability and resale ensure that it serves well as a family vehicle for many hassle-free years.

Conclusion
 

While new cars offer flash and style, used cars remain a sensible choice for most buyers given the significant difference in affordability. Do your diligent research, get any vehicle professionally inspected, and stick to trusted sellers for maximum peace of mind. If you are worried about your finances, you can always avail an instant pre-owned car loan from IDFC FIRST Bank with minimal documentation.    

 

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