10 Cars You Should Not Buy in 2026

The automobile market in India is rapidly evolving. With stricter safety norms, rising fuel costs, emerging EV alternatives, and ever-improving competition, some cars that were once decent choices no longer make sense in 2026. This list looks at 10 cars you should avoid buying in 2026, backed by clear reasons related to engine performance, mileage, safety scores, practicality, and long-term value.

Whether you are a first-time buyer or upgrading your car, this guide ensures you don’t make a choice you might regret.

1. Tata Tigor (Petrol)

Why You Should Avoid It in 2026

Tata Tigor is a popular compact sedan, but in 2026, its petrol variant feels dated and compromised.

Engine & Performance
The engine delivers decent power, but compared to newer cars in the segment, it feels underwhelming — especially on highways.

Mileage? Not Great
Real-world mileage figures often fall short of claimed numbers, especially in city traffic.

Safety Comparisons
While the Tigor does reasonably well in safety, rival hatchbacks and sedans now offer better features and crash protection at similar prices.

Better Alternatives: Hyundai Aura, Maruti Dzire — all offer better refinement, mileage, and service networks.

2. Renault Kwid

Why You Should Avoid It in 2026

The Kwid tried to be a budget breaker, but in 2026, the gaps are too big.

Low Safety Ratings
Kwid continues to lag in safety equipment and crash protection compared to newer entries with better ratings.

Underpowered Engine
The small engine is fine for minimal city use, but performance drops sharply when fully loaded.

Mileage vs Reality
Hits claimed economy only in ideal conditions — real-life figures are often much lower.

Resale Value Concerns
Poor brand perception and low demand mean depreciation hits hard.

Verdict: Price alone isn’t enough reason to compromise so much.

3. MG Hector

Why You Should Avoid It in 2026

Once a trendsetter with big screens and features, the Hector now struggles to justify its pricing and value.

Performance Lag
The heavy body with not-so-potent engines makes the Hector feel sluggish.

Safety? Average
Safety features are okay, but updated competitors offer more robust protection and better handling dynamics.

High Price, Lower Value
More expensive than rivals like Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos — without a performance or value edge.

Poor Fuel Efficiency
Both petrol and diesel variants tend to deliver mileage lower than segment peers.

4. Mahindra Scorpio Classic

Why You Should Avoid It in 2026

The Scorpio Classic survived on nostalgia, but in 2026, it fell short of expectations.

Old-School Engine & Ride
The classic diesel engine feels jerky and outdated compared with modern smooth powertrains.

Mileage Disadvantage
Real fuel economy figures are poor — especially when compared with newer SUVs in the same price bracket.

Safety Levels Below Modern Standards
Newer SUVs offer more airbags, stability systems, and better crash test results.

Practicality Issues
Ride comfort, NVH, and interior refinement lag far behind alternatives.

5. Maruti Suzuki Ignis

Why You Should Avoid It in 2026

The quirky Ignis might appeal to some, but practicality and performance issues stop it from being a smart buy today.

Meager Engine Performance
The small petrol engine feels strained on highways, and overtaking can be stressful.

Outdated Features
The features list feels dated compared to facelifted rivals under the same budget.

Space & Practicality
Rear seat space and boot capacity are limited compared to hatchbacks like the Tata Tiago.

6. Hyundai Grand i10 Nios (2-Airbag Models)

Why You Should Avoid It in 2026

While the Grand i10 Nios is a good car overall, the 2-airbag variant has become a bad deal.

Insufficient Safety
In 2026, only 2 airbags will no longer be acceptable for a showroom purchase.

Value for Money Dropped
The price gap between the 2 and 4-airbag variants is small, making the base model a poor value.

7. Suzuki Baleno (2-Airbag Variants)

Why You Should Avoid It in 2026

The Baleno is a strong package, but the 2-airbag variants now fail to justify buying.

Safety Priority Matters
Low-airbag variants feel outdated as buyers prioritize safety more than ever.

Resale Might Suffer
Used-car buyers increasingly avoid low-safety variants.

8. Mahindra Marazzo

Why You Should Avoid It in 2026

MPV Marazzo promised space and comfort, but in 2026, it no longer feels competitive.

Underwhelming Engine Response
The diesel engine lacksthe refinement expected at this price.

Practicality vs Competition
With the rise of 7-seat SUVs, MPVs like Marazzo feel less appealing.

9. Maruti Celerio

Why You Should Avoid It in 2026

The Celerio was once an entry-level favorite, but today it feels outdated.

Safety & Space Issues
Safety kit remains basic, and rear-seat comfort is limited.

Average Real-World Mileage
Mileage is not as impressive as claimed once driven in daily conditions.

10. Honda City

Why You Should Avoid It in 2026

The Honda City once ruled the segment, but newer rivals have moved ahead.

Outdated Powertrain
Modern turbo and hybrid engines from rivals offer better efficiency and performance.

Price vs Value
Pricing is close to better-equipped competitors, hurting value perception.

Conclusion: Smart Buying in 2026

In 2026, buying a car is about safety, long-term value, and real-world usability. While these cars still exist in showrooms, they fail to deliver competitive value against modern alternatives.

Always compare safety features, real mileage, engine performance, and ownership costs before making your final decision.

A smart car purchase should feel like an investment — not a regret.