Fuel efficiency continues to be one of the most important deciding factors for Indian car buyers. With fluctuating fuel prices and increasing daily commute distances, choosing a car that offers high mileage can significantly reduce long-term ownership costs. Both petrol and diesel cars have their own advantages, and manufacturers in India now offer highly efficient options across hatchbacks, sedans, and compact SUVs.
This article compares some of the best mileage petrol and diesel cars in India, helping buyers understand which fuel type and model suits their driving needs best.
Understanding Mileage in Indian Conditions
Mileage is measured in kilometres per litre (kmpl) and is usually quoted as ARAI-certified figures. However, real-world mileage depends on traffic conditions, driving style, load, road quality, and maintenance. Petrol cars are generally smoother and cheaper to maintain, while diesel cars offer better fuel economy on highways and for long-distance use.
Best Mileage Petrol Cars in India
Maruti Suzuki Celerio
The Maruti Suzuki Celerio is currently among the highest mileage petrol cars in India. Its lightweight platform and efficient engine make it ideal for city usage. The car is easy to drive, affordable to maintain, and well-suited for first-time buyers.
Expected mileage ranges between 25 and 26 kmpl, making it one of the most economical petrol options.
Maruti Suzuki Swift
The Swift is known for combining sporty design with excellent fuel efficiency. It appeals to young buyers and families alike. Despite offering good performance, the Swift manages to deliver strong mileage figures, making it a balanced choice.
The petrol variant offers mileage of around 24 to 25 kmpl under standard driving conditions.
Maruti Suzuki Dzire
The Dzire is one of the most popular compact sedans in India. It offers comfort, boot space, and impressive mileage, which makes it a favourite among private owners as well as fleet operators.
The petrol Dzire delivers around 24 to 25 kmpl, which is exceptional for a sedan in its segment.
Maruti Suzuki S-Presso
Designed for urban mobility, the S-Presso is compact, affordable, and efficient. It suits daily city commutes and short highway trips, offering good mileage with low running costs.
Mileage figures are close to 25 kmpl, making it one of the most budget-friendly petrol cars to own.
Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder (Strong Hybrid)
Although slightly more expensive, the hybrid version of the Urban Cruiser Hyryder deserves special mention. It uses electric assistance to significantly boost fuel efficiency, especially in city traffic.
The strong hybrid variant can deliver mileage figures close to 27–28 kmpl, which is higher than most conventional petrol cars.
Best Mileage Diesel Cars in India
Hyundai Venue Diesel
The Hyundai Venue diesel is one of the most fuel-efficient compact SUVs in the Indian market. It combines SUV styling with excellent mileage, making it suitable for both city and highway driving.
The diesel variant offers mileage of around 23 to 24 kmpl.
Kia Sonet Diesel
The Kia Sonet diesel is a strong performer in the mileage department. It offers modern features, premium interiors, and excellent fuel efficiency, especially for highway users.
Mileage figures are close to 24 kmpl, making it one of the best diesel options in its segment.
Tata Nexon Diesel
The Tata Nexon diesel stands out for its safety rating, build quality, and fuel efficiency. It is a good option for families looking for a reliable and efficient SUV.
The diesel Nexon offers mileage of approximately 23 to 24 kmpl.
Hyundai Creta Diesel
For buyers looking for a larger and more comfortable SUV, the diesel Creta offers a good balance between power and efficiency. It is suitable for long-distance travel and family use.
Mileage ranges between 20 and 22 kmpl, which is respectable for its size and segment.
Petrol vs Diesel: Which Is Better for Mileage?
Petrol cars are generally better for city driving, shorter distances, and lower upfront costs. They offer quieter engines and cheaper maintenance. Diesel cars, on the other hand, are more fuel-efficient for highway driving and long daily commutes, although they come with higher purchase prices.
Hybrid cars are emerging as a middle ground, offering petrol-like smoothness with mileage closer to diesel levels, especially in traffic-heavy cities.
Final Thoughts
India offers a wide range of fuel-efficient petrol and diesel cars catering to different budgets and needs. Hatchbacks dominate the petrol mileage segment, while compact SUVs perform well among diesel options. Buyers should consider not just mileage but also usage pattern, service network, and long-term ownership costs before making a decision.
Choosing the right high-mileage car can help reduce fuel expenses significantly while ensuring a comfortable and reliable driving experience.
Helpful Links
https://www.autocarindia.com
https://www.cardekho.com
https://www.zigwheels.com
