10 best cars ever made in India after 1947: Iconic Maruti 800, Toyota Innova and more

After India’s independence in 1947, the country, as a whole, has come a long way and is today among the global majors through its industries, businesses, and various other sectors including the automotive Industry. The Indian automotive market has grown multiplefold to become one of the largest automotive markets in the world. From manufacturing vehicles to assembling and exporting, the industry and technology have seen major advancements over the years.While numerous vehicles have graced Indian roads over the years, some have stood out and have created a legacy that is hard to match for other vehicles. These ten cars represent a mix of affordability, innovation, reliability, and popularity, making them standout models in the history of the Indian automotive industry. Do note that this is not a ranking but randomly placed 10 vehicles that we think are the best to have been made in India.

The first one on the list is the Hindustan Motors Ambassador which was in production from 1957 to 2014 in India. The Amby was a favourite for businessmen and politicians and it was also considered an elite people’s mover back then. Over the decades, the Ambassador underwent various updates and modifications, although its classic design remained largely unchanged. Its spacious interior, sturdy build, and reliable engine made it a popular choice among politicians, bureaucrats, and the general public alike.

The second car on the list is Fiat Premier Padmini which was in production from 1964 to 2001 and was manufactured by Premier Automobiles Limited in collaboration with Fiat. The car was named after the Rajput queen, Rani Padmini and it became a common sight on Indian roads, serving as a symbol of status and reliability for generations.

Next comes in the iconic Maruti 800 launched in 1983. Back then it was priced at Rs 47,000 and was cheaper than the HM Ambassador and Padmini. Many Indians realised their first car dream through the Maruti 800 and it quickly democratised personal mobility in India. The 800 was powered by a tiny 3 pot, 796 cc Petrol engine and it also featured the latest technology such as disc brakes, all synchromesh gears, an overhead camshaft, an electric cooling fan and a monocoque chassis through its lifecycle.

Another Maruti on the list is the Gypsy, launched in 1985 and was a renamed and longer version of the Gen II Suzuki Jimny. The Gypsy quickly earned a reputation for its durability, agility, and excellent performance on rough terrain, making it a preferred choice for various purposes, including military, police, adventure enthusiasts, and rural transportation. It is said that there are over 35,000 units of Gypsy SUVs in the Indian army fleet. The SUV featured a 1.3-litre petrol engine with 4×4 to cope up with off-road conditions. Additionally, the lightweight body and small dimensions gave it an edge over heavier SUVs in off-road environments.

Next up on the list is the Honda City launched in 1998. The City was at that time that offered a mix of luxury and performance and it also set the template for sedans in India. Over the years, Honda has continually enhanced the City with many technological advancements. As one of the best-selling sedans in India, the Honda City has established a strong reputation for reliability and performance and continues to be a popular model in the market to date.
The Mahindra Scorpio was launched in 2002 and it was one of the most modern Indian SUVs of that time. The SUV came with a modern design, strong road presence, a punchy diesel engine and many convenience features such as Air conditioning, radio and much more. The Scorpio featured a muscular exterior design characterized by bold lines and a distinctive grille. Its high ground clearance, sturdy construction and powerful torquey engine make it well-suited for navigating diverse terrain.

Next on the list is Toyota Innova launched in 2005. The Innova is considered the most trusted MPV in India and it also set a strong foundation for Toyota in India. The Innova was spacious with three rows of seats, was stable on the highway, composed on bad roads and had a strong and reliable diesel engine. As a symbol of trust and dependability, the Toyota Innova has earned a loyal following among Indian consumers.
The Maruti Swift was an instant hit when it was launched in 2005. The hatchback offered sporty looks, punchy engine, brilliant handling, good features and affordable price. The Swift was a significant turning point for the company in India and it’s also considered as one of India’s most loved hatchbacks. As one of the best-selling hatchbacks in India, the Maruti Swift has earned a reputation for reliability, affordability, and versatility. Its enduring popularity among drivers of all ages reflects its status as a beloved icon of the Indian automotive landscape.

The Hyundai Creta, since its launch in 2015 has garnered immense popularity in the Indian automotive market. As the best-selling SUV in its segment in India, the Hyundai Creta has established itself as a segment leader, setting new standards for style, performance, and value. Its widespread appeal among urban dwellers, families, and adventure enthusiasts reflects its status as a top choice in the competitive SUV market. The Creta’s success is primarily built on offering customers features and tech usually found in a segment higher, making it a great value-for-money vehicle.
The Tata Nexon EV single-handedly kick-started the personal mobility electric revolution in the Indian market. The Nexon EV contributes to over 70 per cent market share of the passenger car EV market and it also represents a significant leap forward in the country’s electric vehicle (EV) market. Its introduction marks a significant milestone in the country’s transition towards sustainable mobility. The car recently got an upgrade and continues to be a popular choice for EV buyers in the sub-Rs 20 lakh segment.