First cars launched by major brands in India
Launched in 1983, the Maruti 800 made car ownership a reality for the Indian middle class. Its affordability, fuel efficiency, and reliability made it a cultural icon.
Image: India Today
Maruti 800
Hyundai’s debut in 1998 with the Santro brought fresh design and global standards. Its tall-boy stance and peppy engine made it an urban favorite.
Image: India Today
Hyundai Santro
The Octavia introduced Indians to European luxury and performance when Škoda launched in 2001. It set benchmarks in quality and ride comfort.
Image: Getty Images
Skoda Octavia
Volkswagen began its Indian journey in 2010 with the Polo, offering solid German build quality and a premium hatchback experience.
Image: Reuters
Volkswagen Polo
Mahindra’s automotive roots trace back to assembling the Willys Jeep in the 1950s. It laid the foundation for the brand’s rugged SUV legacy.
Image: X/@Mahindra_Thar
Mahindra CJ
Tata’s first passenger vehicle, the Sierra, launched in 1991, was India’s first SUV with modern features like power windows and a glass rear canopy.
Image: Tata Motors
Tata Sierra
Honda entered the Indian market in 1998 with the City. Its refinement, driving pleasure, and premium appeal made it a long-standing favorite among sedan lovers.
Honda City
Toyota began operations in India with the Qualis in 2000. Though utilitarian in design, it impressed with its durability and became a top choice for taxis and families alike.
Image: Reuters
Toyota Qualis
Kia made a blockbuster entry into India in 2019 with the Seltos. Stylish, feature-packed, and well-priced, the Seltos set new standards for mid-size SUVs and made Kia an instant success story.