Compact sedans continue to hold steady demand in India thanks to their balanced mix of affordability, cabin space and fuel economy. The segment has shrunk in recent years as buyers shift toward compact SUVs, yet it remains relevant for those who want a practical three-box design at a reasonable price. As of now, India has six compact sedans on sale, including a rare option that runs on electricity. Most models offer petrol and CNG because both generations of Amaze are petrol-only, they do not get factory or dealer CNG from Honda. Only one sedan comes with an electric motor, which makes it stand out in a segment otherwise dominated by small-capacity, naturally aspirated engines.
| Model | Powertrain | Ex-Showroom Price Range (₹, Mumbai) |
|---|---|---|
| Tata Tigor | Petrol / CNG: 1.2 NA 5-MT / 5-AMT | 5.49 lakh – 8.74 lakh |
| Hyundai Aura | Petrol / CNG: 1.2 NA 5-MT / 5-AMT | 5.98 lakh – 8.42 lakh |
| Maruti Suzuki Dzire | Petrol / CNG: 1.2 NA 5-MT / 5-AMT | 6.26 lakh – 9.31 lakh |
| Honda Amaze 2nd Gen | Petrol: 1.2 NA 5-MT / CVT | 7.06 lakh – 7.88 lakh |
| Honda Amaze 3rd Gen | Petrol: 1.2 NA 5-MT / CVT | 7.49 lakh – 10.00 lakh |
| Tata Tigor EV | Electric: 26kWh Single-Speed | 12.49 lakh – 13.75 lakh |
Tata Tigor & Tigor EV: Shared Body, Very Different Technology
Tata’s Tigor is the most affordable sedan in the country. The petrol and CNG versions use a 1.2 litre engine with either a 5 speed manual or a 5 speed AMT. It is the only model in this list that offers the rare combination of CNG with an automatic gearbox from factory. Prices range from ₹5.49 lakh to ₹8.74 lakh, which places it among the most accessible options for budget-conscious buyers. The Tigor offers an easy driving experience and multiple fuel options, which helps it appeal to city users.
The Tigor EV sits at the other end of the price spectrum despite sharing the same body shell. It uses a 26 kWh battery, offering a claimed range of 315 KM. Prices start at ₹12.49 lakh and go up to ₹13.75 lakh, making it the only electric compact sedan currently on sale in India. The EV targets buyers who want a sedan with low operating costs. Its higher pricing pushes it into a different bracket, yet it remains the most affordable electric car with a sedan body style in the country.
Hyundai Aura & Maruti Dzire: High Volume Options
The Hyundai Aura and Maruti Suzuki Dzire remain the strongest volume players in this segment. Both offer 1.2 litre petrol engines with the choice of a manual or a 5 speed AMT. The Aura also supports CNG in select trims. It is priced between ₹5.98 lakh and ₹8.42 lakh, presenting itself as a good option in the segment. Hyundai positions the Aura as a comfort-oriented sedan with a long feature list in higher trims.
The Dzire stays popular due to its fuel efficiency, extensive dealer reach and proven mechanical package. Its petrol and CNG variants maintain the same engine configuration as the Aura, and both fuel options are available with manual gearboxes while the petrol variant also offers an AMT. The price range of ₹6.26 lakh to ₹9.31 lakh places it slightly higher than the Aura, yet its proven value and efficient Z-Series engine continue to make it a strong seller.
Amaze 2nd Gen & 3rd Gen: Two Models Sold Side By Side
Honda is the only brand offering two compact sedans at the same time. It is the only carmaker in this list to offer a CVT. The second generation Amaze is available only in the S trim, priced at ₹7.06 lakh (MT) and ₹7.88 lakh (CVT). It is aimed at buyers who want Honda’s proven 1.2 litre petrol engine at a lower entry point. It retains the option of a CVT, which makes it attractive to customers who prefer a smoother automatic.
The third generation Amaze sits above it and introduces updated styling, more features and revised safety equipment. Notably, it is the most affordable car in India to get ADAS, being the only model in this list to offer that. Prices range from ₹7.49 lakh to ₹10 lakh, and the powertrain continues with the same 1.2 litre petrol engine paired with either a manual gearbox or a CVT. It is also available with a CNG option that is installed at the dealer level. This is not a factory-fitted option but a retrofit kit that can be added to manual transmission variants at the dealership. By selling both generations together, Honda covers a wider price band while offering its core characteristics that define the Amaze.
In conclusion, India’s compact sedan market may no longer be the segment it once was, but it still offers a strong mix of fuel types, price points and feature sets. With only one electric option available, the space remains dominated by small petrol engines, though the Tigor EV shows that electrification is slowly making its way into traditional body styles.
