Not long ago, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) were a luxury reserved for premium, high-end cars. Today, that’s no longer the case. Indian car manufacturers are bringing this sophisticated safety technology to the mass market, making features that can help prevent accidents accessible to a much wider audience.
At its core, ADAS uses a network of sensors and cameras to act as a co-pilot. It constantly monitors the vehicle’s surroundings to enhance driver awareness and intervene when necessary. In the affordable segment, you’ll typically find Level 1 or Level 2 autonomy. Level 1 provides crucial alerts and single-function assistance, like warning you of an impending forward collision or gently steering you back into your lane. Level 2 takes it a step further, offering a more semi-autonomous experience by combining features like adaptive cruise control, which maintains a set distance from the car ahead, with lane centering assist.
If you’re looking for this cutting-edge safety in a new combustion-engine car without stretching your budget, here are the four most affordable options available in India today.
1. Honda Amaze
Breaking the price barrier, the third-generation Honda Amaze holds the title of India’s most affordable car with ADAS. For an ex-showroom price starting at just Rs. 9.14 lakh, you can get behind the wheel of a vehicle equipped with this technology. The ADAS suite is exclusively available on the top-tier ZX variants, which are powered by a dependable 90hp, 1.2-litre petrol engine. Whether you prefer a manual transmission or the convenience of a CVT automatic, the Amaze offers both, making it a revolutionary choice as the only sub-4-metre sedan in the country to offer such advanced features.
2. Mahindra XUV 3XO
Mahindra has made a significant impact with the XUV 3XO, packing a Level 2 ADAS system into a very competitive price bracket. This compact SUV brings a high-tech edge to the segment, with the ADAS features available on the AX5 L and AX7 L variants. The starting price for an ADAS-equipped model is around Rs. 11.50 lakh. The AX5 L is powered by a spirited 131hp, 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine, while the AX7 L adds the option of a 1.5-litre diesel unit. This combination of power, features, and proactive safety makes the XUV 3XO an exceptionally well-rounded and value-packed proposition.
3. Tata Nexon
Tata Motors has firmly positioned the Nexon at the forefront of safety with its Level 2 ADAS capability. This system is offered on the Fearless+ S trim and the stylish Red Dark Edition. It’s important to note that this advanced tech is paired specifically with the 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine and a DCT automatic gearbox, with prices starting from Rs. 13.53 lakh (ex-showroom). If you were considering a diesel or a manual transmission variant of the Nexon, you should be aware that the ADAS suite is not available on those models.
4. Honda City
A pioneer in bringing ADAS to the mainstream, the Honda City continues to be a top choice with its comprehensive Honda Sensing suite. This technology is standard on almost all variants of the sedan, specifically the V, VX, and ZX trims, with prices beginning at Rs. 12.69 lakh. The City is powered by a refined 121hp, 1.5-litre petrol engine that can be paired with either a manual or a CVT automatic. Demonstrating Honda’s commitment to the tech, the ADAS system is also standard on the advanced City e:HEV strong-hybrid model, ensuring safety across its powertrain options.
