Top 5 Cars Under ₹10 Lakh That Offer 6 Airbags as Standard

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) had earlier proposed making six airbags mandatory in all passenger vehicles. However, in 2023, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari clarified that with the rollout of the Bharat New Car Assessment Program (BNCAP), only vehicles equipped with six airbags would be eligible for 4- or 5-star safety ratings. As a result, the plan to mandate six airbags was shelved. Still, several manufacturers have taken a proactive approach by equipping their vehicles with six airbags as a standard feature, even in the budget segment.

Here are the top five most affordable cars under ₹10 lakh that now come with six airbags as standard:

1. Maruti Suzuki Alto K10

Price: ₹4.23 – ₹6.09 lakh (ex-showroom)

Lovingly called the “Lord Alto,” this compact hatchback has taken a bold step in safety. It now comes with six airbags, making it one of the safest entry-level cars in its class. Other features include:

- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)

- ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)

- Reverse parking sensors

- First in the segment to offer four speakers

Powered by a 1.0-litre petrol engine, the Alto K10 produces 66 bhp and 89 Nm of torque, paired with either a 5-speed manual or an AMT.

2. Maruti Suzuki Eeco

Price: ₹5.44 – ₹6.70 lakh (ex-showroom)

The most affordable MPV in the country, the Eeco, is now safer than ever. It includes:

- Six airbags

- Speed alert system

- ESP and ABS with EBD

- Reverse parking sensors

It is available in 5- and 6-seater configurations. Under the hood is a 1.0-litre petrol engine delivering 81 bhp and 105.5 Nm, and it also comes with a CNG variant. Both versions are paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.

3. Maruti Suzuki Celerio

Price: ₹5.64 – ₹7.37 lakh (ex-showroom)

Maruti recently refreshed the Celerio with an added focus on safety. The entire Celerio range now comes with:

- Six airbags

- Hill Hold Assist

- ESP and ABS with EBD

- Reverse parking sensors

It’s powered by a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine that generates 66 bhp and 91.1 Nm of torque, offered with both manual and AMT options.

4. Maruti Suzuki Wagon R

Price: ₹5.65 – ₹7.36 lakh (ex-showroom)

India’s top-selling car in FY 2024-25 just got safer. Key safety features now include:

- Six airbags

- ABS with EBD

- ESP and Hill Hold Assist

- 3-point seat belts for all passengers

Wagon R comes with two engine options:

- 1.0-litre: 67 bhp, 91.1 Nm

- 1.2-litre: 90 bhp, 113.7 Nm

5. Hyundai Grand i10 Nios

Price: ₹5.98 – ₹8.38 lakh (ex-showroom)

The only non-Maruti on the list, Hyundai’s Grand i10 Nios packs impressive safety credentials, including:

- Six airbags

- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

- Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)

- Hill Assist Control

- Driver Rear View Monitor (DVRM)

It’s powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine that puts out 82 bhp and 113.8 Nm of torque, with both manual and AMT gearbox options.

Conclusion:

With safety now becoming a major focus for Indian car buyers, it’s encouraging to see manufacturers offering six airbags even in budget-friendly vehicles. These five cars combine affordability, reliability, and enhanced safety—proving that you don’t have to spend big to drive safe.