No matter which country a person belongs to or how rich he/she is, everyone likes to save on money. The need to save money is applicable to all people and it is quite logical. Irrespective of affordability levels, no one likes to spend a higher amount, be it on buying something or acquiring. This concept is highly relevant when it comes to buying a car as a majority of customers, all around the world, are quite price sensitive. The price of a vehicle is the single biggest factor that influences the decision of a buyer and auto makers understand this completely. A great example of this would be the Indian car market, which is dominated by Maruti Suzuki, a brand that manufactures affordable vehicles. At present, there are many models in the global car market that are priced really low and designed specifically for budget buyers.
Labelled as the 'cheapest production car in the world' by its manufacturer Tata Motors, Nano is a compact hatchback that has a starting price of Rs. 1.65 lakh (ex-showroom, Mumbai). In the past four years, this model has made a name for itself throughout the globe. According to sources, the manufacturer, by launching this car, wanted to target two-wheeler riders willing to upgrade to a four-wheeler. Much before it made an entry into the Indian market, Nano made headlines consistently due to various reasons. This model is powered by a 624 cc 2 cylinder MPFI engine that delivers an output of around 36 bhp along with peak torque of 51 Nm. However, despite high affordability and fuel-economy, sales of this car have not been up to the mark. In order to change this, Tata Motors is planning to launch a diesel version of this model in coming months, reports have claimed.
Chinese automobile manufacturer do not boast of a great presence as far as the global market is concerned. However, one car has achieved tremendous success and is called "a legend in the Chinese history of the automobile” by the company is Chery QQ. A five door hatchback, this model has been in production since early 2000s and due to its success, the auto maker has earned a number of accolades. Compact, sporty and appealing, this car has been praised for its manoeuvrability and suitability in city conditions. Also, the aggressive pricing of this car has helped the manufacturer in registering excellent sales figures.
Maruti Suzuki is India's largest passenger car maker and has a market share better than anyone when it comes to vehicles in mass segment. A subsidiary of Japan-based company Suzuki, this firm is known for producing cars that are affordable and render excellent mileage figures. One such model, which is also counted among the cheapest cars in the world, is Maruti Suzuki Alto 800. This car features the unique wavefront design characterised by petal-shaped headlamps, sloping window lines and jewel-finish rear combination lamps. Powered by a computer controlled F8D engine, this car has the ability to produce an output of around 46 bhp.
Apart from these, there are a few other models produced in different parts of the world that have really low prices. Hyundai, the South Korean auto giant, produces i10 and Santro Xing models, which are quite affordable.
