The Indian automotive market is among the largest in the world. However, when it comes to fun to drive cars or affordable budget cars, it is next to nil. Every now and then though some auto maker rises to help the enthusiasts and launches a car which matches both the above-mentioned criteria. So, here is a list of ten such cars which are both affordable and are also quite enjoyable on road.
Tata Tiago JTP
Price: Rs. 6.39 Lakh
The Tiago JTP is the cheapest performance hatchback in the country right now. However, that certainly does not mean its tame in any way. In fact, it is the only hot hatch to get a reworked suspension, lowered ground clearance along with a sporty exhaust. It is powered by a three-pot petrol motor which churns out 112 Bhp of power and 150 Nm torque. It is mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox as standard. For just Rs. 6.39 lakhs, it's about the same price as the Maruti Suzuki VXi petrol but is a worth lot more fun.
Tata Tigor JTP
Price: Rs. 7.49 Lakh
Next in line of affordable hot cars is the Tigor JTP, which is hot compact sedan to be particular. come with visible exterior changes like sportier bumpers, larger air intakes, new fog lamp housing, blacked out headlamps and grille with JTP badging among others. This is likely to continue on the interior front as well with JTP badging all around and sportier overall theme. It is powered by the same three pot petrol motor which powers the Tiago JTP and churns out 112 Bhp of power along 150 Nm torque. It is mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox as standard.
Volkswagen Ameo DSG (comfortline)
Price: Rs. 7.63 Lakh
Folks at Volkswagen did a commendable job by putting a big 1.5-liter diesel engine in the Ameo. The engine churns out 109 Bhp of power along with 250 Nm of torque, which is more than enough for a 1.15-ton car. This combines with a slick 7-speed DSG gearbox makes it fun to drive. The flat-bottomed steering wheel is well weighted and it is one of the best handling cars in its segment. The ride quality is a bit on the stiffer side but that makes the car more planted, enough for a petrolhead to compromise a bit on comfort.
Ford Figo AT Petrol
Price: Rs. 8.25 Lakh
The Ford Figo AT petrol is one of those cars which took us by surprise. The regular looking hatch has a big firebreather of an engine quietly tucked away under the bonnet. The 1499 cc petrol engine produces 110 Bhp of power along with 136 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission, though it’s not among the best we’ve seen. But with a kerb weight of near around 1,030 kg, the car is quick off the line, though we wish Ford made it a bit sportier rather than comfort oriented.