In a significant shift for the Indian automotive market, the title of the country’s most affordable car has a new holder. The Maruti Suzuki S-Presso, with its SUV-inspired design, has now undercut the long-reigning Maruti Alto to claim the top spot, following a substantial price revision.
The change comes in the wake of the recent GST overhaul, which slashed tax rates on small cars. For the first time in decades, sub-4-meter petrol vehicles saw their tax burden drop significantly, from 28% to 18%. Maruti Suzuki passed these savings directly to consumers, with the S-Presso receiving the most dramatic cut—a reduction of up to ₹1.2 lakh on certain variants.
This brings the S-Presso’s base ex-showroom price down to an unprecedented ₹3.50 lakh. The Alto K10, which previously held the “cheapest car” crown, now starts at ₹3.70 lakh, placing the S-Presso a clear ₹20,000 below its stablemate.
A Strategic Repositioning
This price adjustment is more than just a numbers game; it’s a strategic move by Maruti Suzuki. The repositioning was made possible because the S-Presso did not receive the recent safety upgrade that other models like the Alto K10 and Celerio did. While those cars now boast six airbags as standard, the S-Presso continues with two. This distinction in safety equipment, combined with the aggressive pricing, allows Maruti to position the S-Presso as the new entry-point vehicle.
The shift is also symbolic. It marks a historic moment where the cheapest car on sale wears an SUV-like design, highlighting the overwhelming consumer preference for high-riding vehicles. Maruti Suzuki is clearly leveraging this trend to attract first-time car buyers, particularly those upgrading from two-wheelers, who desire a bold look without stretching their budget.
While the S-Presso’s quirky design has been a topic of debate, its new price tag is undeniable. For cost-conscious buyers prioritizing affordability and a commanding driving position over premium safety features, the S-Presso has suddenly become an incredibly compelling option. This strategic play reinforces Maruti’s efforts to bolster the struggling entry-level car segment by offering a product that aligns with contemporary styling tastes.
