The demand for used cars in India has witnessed significant growth in recent years due to affordability, diverse options, and increasing consumer confidence in second-hand vehicles. With new cars becoming pricier and road-ready second-hand vehicles offering similar value at lower costs, the Indian used car market has blossomed.
That is the reason why purchasing a used car in India has become a smart financial decision for many. With a growing selection of quality pre-owned vehicles available at unbeatable prices, more people are turning to used cars for their affordability, durability, and wide variety of options.
In this article, we’ll explore why buying a used car is a good idea, how to find the best deals, what to look for during the buying process, and the growing trend of online platforms that make purchasing a used car easier than ever.
Why Choose a Used Car in India?
- Affordability and Value for Money
One of the most compelling reasons to buy a used car is the immediate cost savings. New cars experience significant depreciation within the first few years, often losing up to 50% of their value in three years. This allows buyers to purchase high-quality vehicles at a fraction of their original price. In India, with popular models like the Maruti Suzuki Swift, Hyundai i20, or Honda City, opting for a second-hand vehicle provides access to premium features without the premium price tag.
For example, platforms like Droom offer thousands of vehicles across different price ranges, starting as low as ₹2-3 lakh, making it accessible for various budget levels. Whether you’re looking for a compact hatchback, a family sedan, or a sturdy SUV, buying used can provide tremendous value.
- Variety of Options
In India, the used car market is vast, offering a wide variety of models, makes, and conditions to suit your needs. Buyers can choose from well-maintained vehicles that have undergone rigorous inspection processes. Certified used cars from platforms like Droom undergo comprehensive 140- or 210-point inspections to ensure quality, offering warranties, and even first-free services, which further sweeten the deal.
Additionally, you can find vehicles with premium features or accessories, such as in-car navigation, air conditioning, or leather upholstery, which might otherwise be out of reach when buying new. The availability of luxury cars in the second-hand market is also growing, with platforms offering cars from premium brands like Mercedes-Benz and BMW at much more affordable prices.
Top 5 Affordable Used Cars Under 7 Lakhs!
If you’re looking for a used car in India, certain models offer excellent value for money, reliability, and low maintenance costs. Here’s a list of the top 5 second hand cars to consider in 2024 (prices are checked from Droom.com):
- Maruti Suzuki Swift (From 65K to 7.5L)
The Maruti Suzuki Swift remains one of the best second hand cars in India. Known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and low maintenance, the Swift is ideal for city driving. It offers impressive mileage, around 22-30 km/l depending on the fuel type (petrol or CNG). The Swift also features a spacious cabin and is equipped with safety features like airbags and ABS. Its availability in both manual and automatic variants makes it versatile.
- Hyundai i20 (From 1.1L to 12L)
The Hyundai i20 is a premium hatchback that stands out for its superior build quality and modern features. It offers excellent fuel efficiency of around 20 km/l and comes with a robust safety package, including ABS and airbags. The i20 is a great choice if you’re looking for a well-built and feature-rich used car.
- Maruti Suzuki Wagon R (From 50K to 4.6L)
The Wagon R is highly regarded for its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, and practicality. Offering a mileage of 24-34 km/l depending on whether you opt for petrol or CNG, it is perfect for city commuters and small families. Its tall-boy design ensures ample headroom, making it comfortable for all passengers.
- Tata Altroz (4L to 8L)
Tata’s Altroz is one of the safest used cars in India, boasting a 5-star G-NCAP safety rating. It delivers a solid performance with a 1.2L petrol or 1.5L diesel engine and offers an impressive mileage of up to 24 km/l. With a well-designed interior and spacious seating for five, it’s a practical and reliable choice for families.
- Renault Kwid (2L to 6.6L)
The Renault Kwid is a compact hatchback with SUV-like styling. It is ideal for budget-conscious buyers, offering excellent fuel efficiency (around 21 km/l). The Kwid’s modern design, decent ground clearance, and practical features make it a popular option among used car buyers in India.
Key Considerations When Buying a Used Car
When purchasing a used car, the condition of the vehicle is paramount. Make sure the car has undergone a comprehensive inspection and comes with a detailed report and ensure that the car is in good working condition. These inspections cover everything from engine health to tyre condition, electrical components, and the overall interior and exterior.
Many platforms also provide a test drive option, allowing buyers to check the car’s performance, braking, and comfort firsthand. Some dealers even offer a seven-day return policy, where buyers can return the car if it does not meet their expectations.
Additionally, verifying the car’s history, including its previous ownership, accident history, and service records is crucial. Use tools that provide detailed RTO background checks, ensuring that the vehicle has a clean history with no outstanding finance or legal issues. Be sure to check the registration papers, insurance records, and pollution certificates to avoid any legal complications later. Moreover, buying from certified sellers guarantees that the vehicle is not stolen, blacklisted, or has pending traffic fines, as these platforms conduct stringent background checks.
Lastly, choose the right banking option for a loan. Many platforms partner with banks and NBFCs (Non-Banking Financial Companies) to offer easy loan options with low interest rates. This allows buyers to spread out the cost over time, making it easier to own a car without a large upfront payment.
Conclusion
The used car market in India offers a practical and affordable solution for buyers seeking value for money. With a wide variety of options, from budget-friendly compact cars to premium vehicles, purchasing a second-hand car provides a cost-effective way to access high-quality features without breaking the bank.
If you are looking to buy second hand car online, Droom has a massive selection of over 200,000 used cars for sale and offers detailed vehicle certifications. They ensure that every vehicle is in top condition with their comprehensive inspection process and background verification
