Renting a car in India offers travellers flexibility, convenience, and comfort, whether for business, leisure, or long road trips. With numerous car rental options available, choosing the right vehicle is crucial for a smooth travel experience. Different travellers have different requirements—some may prefer budget-friendly hatchbacks, while others look for luxury sedans or spacious SUVs.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular car models for rentals in India, categorized based on budget, comfort, and travel needs.
1. Budget-Friendly Hatchbacks (Best for City Travel)
Hatchbacks are the most economical and fuel-efficient rental cars, making them perfect for city driving and short trips.
Popular Hatchback Models:
- Maruti Suzuki Swift – Known for its fuel efficiency, smooth handling, and easy manoeuvrability in traffic.
- Hyundai Grand i10 – Offers a comfortable cabin and modern features at an affordable price.
- Tata Tiago – A budget-friendly, well-built car with excellent mileage.
Why Choose a Hatchback?
- Affordable rental rates
- Easy to drive in congested cities
- High fuel efficiency
Hatchbacks are ideal for solo travellers, couples, or small families exploring urban areas like Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore.
2. Compact Sedans (Best for Small Families & Business Travelers)
For travellers who need more comfort than a hatchback but don’t require an SUV, compact sedans offer the perfect balance.
Popular Compact Sedan Models:
- Honda Amaze – A fuel-efficient and comfortable sedan, great for long-distance travel.
- Maruti Suzuki Dzire – One of the most rented cars due to its reliability and spacious interior.
- Hyundai Aura – A stylish sedan with a smooth drive and modern infotainment system.
Why Choose a Compact Sedan?
- More legroom and boot space than hatchbacks
- Comfortable for city and highway driving
- Suitable for both family and business trips
If you’re traveling with family or need a reliable car for business meetings, a compact sedan is a great choice.
3. Midsize Sedans (Best for Long-Distance Travel & Business Use)
Midsize sedans are an excellent option for travellers looking for extra space and comfort, especially for intercity trips.
Popular Midsize Sedan Models:
- Toyota Etios – A durable, fuel-efficient sedan widely used in car rentals.
- Hyundai Verna – Offers a premium feel, excellent mileage, and advanced features.
- Honda City – Known for its luxurious interior, smooth performance, and reliability.
Why Choose a Midsize Sedan?
- Spacious and comfortable interiors
- Smooth performance on highways
- Great for business professionals and corporate travel
These cars provide a premium experience without the high cost of luxury rentals.
4. SUVs (Best for Road Trips & Large Families)
For travellers who need extra space, power, and comfort, SUVs are the ideal choice. Whether you’re planning a road trip or traveling with family, SUVs offer superior performance.
Popular SUV Models:
- Mahindra XUV500 – A powerful SUV with spacious seating and excellent off-road capability.
- Hyundai Creta – A best-selling SUV with a stylish design and smooth driving experience.
- Toyota Innova Crysta – The top choice for family travel, with ample space and premium comfort.
Why Choose an SUV?
- Suitable for highways, hills, and rough terrains
- Higher ground clearance for a safer ride
- Ideal for groups and families
SUVs are perfect for exploring hill stations, national parks, and long road trips across India.
5. Luxury Cars (Best for High-End Business & Special Occasions)
For travellers looking for a premium experience, luxury cars provide unmatched comfort, technology, and style.
Popular Luxury Car Models:
- Mercedes-Benz E-Class – A premium sedan offering world-class luxury and advanced safety features.
- Audi A6 – A stylish executive car with a refined interior and smooth performance.
- BMW 5 Series – A high-performance sedan ideal for business professionals and VIPs.
Why Choose a Luxury Car?
- Ultimate comfort and advanced features
- Makes a lasting impression for business travel
- Perfect for weddings, events, and special occasions
Luxury rentals cater to corporate executives and travellers who want a top-tier experience.
6. Electric & Hybrid Cars (Best for Eco-Friendly Travel)
As sustainability becomes a priority, many car rental companies in India are offering electric and hybrid vehicles.
Popular Electric & Hybrid Models:
- Tata Nexon EV – One of the best-selling electric cars in India, offering great range and reliability.
- MG ZS EV – A stylish electric SUV with a smooth and silent ride.
- Toyota Camry Hybrid – A fuel-efficient hybrid sedan perfect for long-distance travel.
Why Choose an Electric or Hybrid Car?
- Environmentally friendly
- Lower running costs (less fuel expense)
- Smooth and quiet driving experience
For travellers looking to reduce their carbon footprint, electric cars are an excellent option.
How to Choose the Right Rental Car for Your Trip?
When selecting a rental car in India, consider the following factors:
1. Purpose of Travel:
- City travel? → Hatchback or compact sedan
- Business trip? → Midsize sedan or luxury car
- Family trip? → SUV or Innova Crysta
- Road trip? → SUV or hybrid car
2. Budget Considerations:
- Affordable rentals → Hatchbacks & compact sedans
- Mid-range rentals → Midsize sedans & SUVs
- Premium rentals → Luxury & electric cars
3. Fuel Efficiency:
- Long-distance travelers should choose fuel-efficient sedans or hybrid cars.
- If traveling in remote areas, opt for petrol or diesel SUVs, as charging stations for EVs are limited.
4. Rental Duration & Distance:
- For short-term city use → Hatchbacks or sedans
- For extended trips → SUVs or comfortable sedans
By selecting the right car model, you can enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free travel experience.
