Best Mileage Petrol Cars in India in 2026
Explore the best mileage petrol cars in India in 2026, including claimed fuel efficiency, key strengths and the right choice for different buyers.
Fuel efficiency remains one of the biggest priorities for Indian car buyers in 2026. Petrol cars are generally smoother, quieter and easier to maintain than diesel models, while modern AMT and automatic options can also deliver strong claimed mileage.
This list covers some of the best mileage petrol cars currently available in India. The figures below are manufacturer-claimed or ARAI-certified numbers and may vary by variant. CNG cars, diesel cars, electric vehicles and strong-hybrid models are not included.
Best mileage petrol cars in India: Quick comparison
| Car | Claimed petrol mileage | Best suited for |
|---|---|---|
| Maruti Suzuki Celerio | Up to 26.68 km/l | Maximum city fuel efficiency |
| Maruti Suzuki Swift | Up to 25.75 km/l | Efficient and sporty hatchback |
| Maruti Suzuki Dzire | Up to 25.71 km/l | Efficient compact family sedan |
| Maruti Suzuki WagonR | Up to 25.19 km/l | Spacious city hatchback |
| Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 | Up to 24.90 km/l | Budget-friendly daily commuting |
| Maruti Suzuki S-Presso | Up to 24.76 km/l | Compact car with tall seating |
| Maruti Suzuki Baleno | Up to 22.94 km/l | Premium and practical hatchback |
Mileage can differ between manual and automatic variants. Buyers should confirm the figure for the exact variant before booking.
1. Maruti Suzuki Celerio
The Maruti Suzuki Celerio is one of the most fuel-efficient regular petrol cars in India. Its 1.0-litre petrol engine is tuned mainly for low running costs and easy city driving. The AMT version offers claimed mileage of up to 26.68 km/l, while the manual is also highly efficient.
The Celerio is compact outside but reasonably spacious inside. Light steering, good visibility and a small turning radius make it easy to use in crowded cities. It is a practical choice for first-time buyers and people with a long daily commute.
2. Maruti Suzuki Swift
The latest Maruti Suzuki Swift uses a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine with idle start-stop technology. It delivers claimed mileage of up to 25.75 km/l with the AMT gearbox, while manual variants offer up to around 24.80 km/l.
The Swift is a good option for buyers who want fuel efficiency without choosing a basic entry-level car. It offers a more stylish design, better highway performance and useful features such as a touchscreen, wireless smartphone connectivity and six airbags on current variants.
3. Maruti Suzuki Dzire
The Maruti Suzuki Dzire is among the most fuel-efficient petrol sedans in India. Its 1.2-litre petrol engine delivers up to 25.71 km/l with the AMT and around 24.79 km/l with the manual gearbox.
Compared with a hatchback, the Dzire offers a larger boot and a more comfortable rear seat for family use. Higher variants include features such as a touchscreen, automatic climate control, cruise control, a 360-degree camera and an electric sunroof. It is a strong choice for private buyers as well as high-running urban users.
4. Maruti Suzuki WagonR
The WagonR remains popular because of its tall cabin, easy entry and exit, and practical interior space. The 1.0-litre petrol AMT version can deliver claimed mileage of up to 25.19 km/l. A more powerful 1.2-litre petrol engine is also available, although its mileage is slightly lower.
Its upright seating position is useful for senior citizens and family buyers. The large windows also improve visibility in traffic. Buyers who want a spacious city car with low running costs should consider the WagonR.
5. Maruti Suzuki Alto K10
The Alto K10 is one of the most affordable petrol cars in India and delivers up to 24.90 km/l with the AGS automatic gearbox. Manual versions offer around 24.39 km/l. Its small 1.0-litre engine is suitable for daily city use and short highway trips.
The Alto K10 is easy to park, inexpensive to maintain and supported by Maruti Suzuki’s wide service network. Current variants also provide six airbags, ABS with EBD and rear parking sensors, making it more suitable for budget-conscious first-time buyers.
6. Maruti Suzuki S-Presso
The S-Presso combines compact dimensions with a tall seating position. Its 1.0-litre petrol engine delivers claimed mileage of up to around 24.76 km/l with the AMT gearbox. The manual version is also economical.
It is suitable for city buyers who prefer an upright driving position and better ground clearance than a conventional entry-level hatchback. Cabin quality is basic, but running costs and ease of use are its main strengths.
7. Maruti Suzuki Baleno
The Baleno is a larger and more premium hatchback than the Celerio, Alto K10 and WagonR. Its 1.2-litre petrol engine offers claimed mileage of up to 22.94 km/l with the AMT and around 22.35 km/l with the manual gearbox.
It offers a spacious cabin, a practical boot, comfortable ride quality and features such as a head-up display, 360-degree camera and touchscreen infotainment on higher variants. The Baleno is worth considering for buyers who want good mileage without compromising too much on space and equipment.
Which petrol car gives the best mileage?
Among regular non-hybrid petrol cars, the Maruti Suzuki Celerio is one of the mileage leaders in India with a claimed figure of up to 26.68 km/l. The Swift and Dzire follow closely and offer a better balance of features, performance and family usability.
For buyers on a strict budget, the Alto K10 is a sensible option. The WagonR is better for cabin space, while the Baleno offers a more premium experience.
How to get better real-world petrol mileage
- Accelerate smoothly and avoid sudden braking.
- Maintain the recommended tyre pressure.
- Use the correct engine oil and follow the service schedule.
- Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the car.
- Switch off the engine during long stops when safe.
- Use air conditioning sensibly, especially in slow traffic.
Claimed mileage vs real-world mileage
ARAI and manufacturer mileage figures are useful for comparison, but real-world efficiency is usually lower. City traffic, road conditions, weather, passenger load, driving style and air-conditioner use can all affect fuel consumption.
Before buying, take a test drive and speak with owners who use the same engine and gearbox combination. Also compare the car’s service cost, insurance, safety features and resale value instead of selecting a model only on the basis of mileage.
Final verdict
The Celerio is the best choice for buyers seeking the highest claimed petrol mileage at an accessible price. The Swift and Dzire offer a stronger all-round package, while the WagonR provides better practicality. The Alto K10 suits budget buyers, and the Baleno is ideal for those wanting a more premium hatchback with respectable efficiency.