With the car prices in Pakistan climbing high, consumers are now shifting towards small cars that are affordable and fuel-efficient. With limited options available, there’s not much to choose from. Some hope remains for Pakistani consumers to choose small cars like United Bravo, Suzuki Wagon R, Suzuki Alto, Suzuki Cultus, Kia Picanto, and Prince Pearl.
I would recommend Suzuki Alto as the most recommended option here due to the availability of parts in the market.
If you are not on a strict budget, it’s better to lose a bit more cash out of your wallet to go for the Kia Picanto which offers the most value. And if you need a compact yet spacious car, there isn’t a better car than the Suzuki Wagon R.
Why Choose A Small Car in Pakistan
Small cars offer several advantages, particularly in Pakistan where high petrol prices make fuel efficiency crucial. They are generally more affordable to maintain and insure compared to larger vehicles. Their compact size makes it easy to park and manoeuvre in busy areas.
However, it’s important to consider some drawbacks associated with small cars. These cars often lack features found in larger vehicles, such as power windows and cruise control.
The limited storage space might pose challenges for Pakistani families dealing with bulky items like sacks of rice or grains. Safety is another concern, as small cars may not provide the same level of protection as larger vehicles in case of an accident.
Overall, while small cars have notable benefits, including fuel efficiency and manoeuvrability, potential buyers in Pakistan should carefully weigh these advantages against the drawbacks, such as reduced features and safety concerns, before buying a new car.
Best Small Family Cars in Pakistan
For those seeking a small car that strikes a balance between affordability and reliability, here are some of the options to consider:
1- Suzuki Alto 2024 – The Best Compact Car in Pakistan
Specifications
| Body Type | Hatchback |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 3395 x 1475 x 1490 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 170 mm |
| Displacement | 658 cc |
| Transmission | Manual & Automatic |
| Horsepower | 39 hp |
| Torque | 56 Nm |
| Boot Space | 125 L |
| Kerb Weight | 650 – 670 KG |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| Mileage | 18 – 22 KM/L |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L |
| Seating Capacity | 4 Persons |
| Top Speed | 140 KM/H |
| Tire Size | 145/80/R13 |
Price
| Variants | Ex-Factory Price |
| Suzuki Alto VX 658 cc, Manual, Petrol | PKR 2,251,000 |
| Suzuki Alto VXR 658 cc, Manual, Petrol | PKR 2,612,000 |
| Suzuki Alto VXR AGS 658 cc, Automatic, Petrol | PKR 2,799,000 |
| Suzuki Alto VXL AGS 658 cc, Automatic, Petrol | PKR 2,935,000 |
The Suzuki Alto 2024 is a compact and economical car for city traffic. Its exterior features include integrated rear lights in the bumper, a unified unit for headlights and turn signals, and a consistently small front grille across all three models.
The Altor VXL variant has coloured door mirrors, handles, and retractable mirrors. The interior of Suzuki looks impressive for a car that is produced in Pakistan and boasts a dashboard in a stylish combination of dark grey and light grey.
Key features include a comprehensive speedometer, conveniently placed automatic gear shift, analogue climate control, cupholders, and a console box. The Alto VXL model has additional practical features such as power windows, retractable mirrors, dual airbags, and electric power steering.
Under the hood, the Alto 2024 is equipped with a new R06A engine, enhancing efficiency and power. Its 3-cylinder 660cc engine delivers 39 horsepower and 56 Nm of torque, incorporating a multipoint injection fuel distribution system for optimal performance.
The car offers flexibility with a 5-speed manual transmission or the AGS (Auto Gear Shift) option, catering to different driving preferences.
The Suzuki Alto 2024 faces competition in Pakistan from various models, including the Suzuki Mehran, Daihatsu Mira, Nissan Dayz, United Bravo, and Prince Pearl. Specifically, in the 660cc category, its primary competitors are the United Bravo and Prince Pearl.
Despite the presence of alternatives, the Suzuki Alto 2024 holds a unique advantage owing to Suzuki’s established reputation as a reliable brand and its widespread dealership network.
This legacy provides a distinct edge over competitors like Bravo and Pearl. For consumers exploring imported 660cc cars, options such as the Nissan Dayz, Daihatsu Move, and Mitsubishi Ek Wagon are also worth considering in addition to the locally available choices.
2- Suzuki Wagon R – Best Small Spacious Car in Pakistan
Specifications
| Body Type | Hatchback |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 3395 x 1475 x 1645 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 155 – 165 mm |
| Displacement | 998 cc |
| Transmission | Manual & Automatic |
| Horsepower | 67 hp |
| Torque | 90 Nm |
| Boot Space | 180 L |
| Kerb Weight | 835 – 850 Kg |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| Mileage | 14 – 18 KM/L |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L |
| Seating Capacity | 5 Persons |
| Top Speed | 180 KM/H |
| Tire Size | 145/80/R13 |
Price
| Variants | Ex-Factory Price |
| Suzuki Wagon R VXR 998 cc, Manual, Petrol | PKR 3,214,000 |
| Suzuki Wagon R VXL 998 cc, Manual, Petrol | PKR 3,412,000 |
| Suzuki Wagon R AGS 998 cc, Automatic, Petrol | PKR 3,741,000 |
The Suzuki Wagon R 1st Generation maintains Suzuki’s recognizable design, characterized by its boxy exterior. The front of the vehicle showcases a trapezium grille with chrome accents, complemented by large trapezium-styled side-swept Halogen multi-reflector headlights.
The length and width of the Suzuki WagonR is the same as that of the Suzuki Alto 2024, however, the WagonR offers you a bit more headroom in terms of height.
Adding character to the design is a trapezium air intake and dual standard circular fog lights. Moving to the rear, the standard case hatchback is equipped with stacked rectangular vertical side-swept taillights, and a purposeful roof spoiler accents the rear mirror.
The tailgate is both key and remote-operated, ensuring convenient accessibility. Notably, all variants of the Suzuki Wagon R share identical styling, presenting a restrained yet familiar design language typical of Japanese hatchbacks in its category.
The Suzuki Wagon R VXR offers beige seat upholstery fabric, creating a warm interior ambience, while the VXL variant features black upholstery.
The three-spoke steering wheel, equipped with power steering, is wrapped in urethane and adorned with silver-coloured garnish in the VXL model. The Wagon R has a manual air conditioner and heater, featuring air induction change control and ventilation mode control for climate comfort.
Standard interior features include a front cabin light, driver and passenger sun visor, assist grips, cup and bottle holders, and storage pockets. The vehicle incorporates keyless entry with an immobilizer for enhanced security, a light-off, and a key reminder alarm.
The VXL variant boasts additional features such as power windows, central door locking, a security alarm, remote control door locks, turn-over type outside door mirrors, an under-seat tray, and a tachometer.
Suzuki Alto VXR and VXL variant has a 2-speaker stereo audio system featuring CD, AUX, and USB inputs. Common features across both variants include front window defroster, side demister, and rear window demister, ensuring a comprehensive and comfortable driving experience.
The Wagon R 2024 features a 1.0-litre Euro 2 petrol engine, featuring a displacement of 998cc. This engine delivers a power output of 50 kW at 6200 rpm and a torque of 90 Nm at 3500 rpm.
The fuel efficiency of the 1st Generation Wagon R is noteworthy, with an average consumption of up to 14 KM/L in urban settings and 17 KM/L on highways.
With a 35-litre fuel tank, this compact hatchback offers an estimated range of approximately 490 KM to 595 KM, balancing the performance and fuel economy.
In the Pakistani market, the Suzuki Wagon R 1st Generation faces robust competition primarily from the Toyota Vitz, Toyota Passo, and Suzuki Cultus.
The Suzuki Cultus emerges as a formidable competitor against Suzuki’s Wagon R, offering superior fuel economy and performance. Moreover, the Suzuki Cultus is the best car for family use, presenting a strong alternative within Suzuki’s lineup.
The Toyota Passo stands out as another compelling rival, sharing similarities with the Wagon R but equipped with a 1329cc engine that provides slightly less power. Notably, the Passo distinguishes itself by offering automatic transmission, adding to its appeal in the market.
3- Kia Picanto – Best Performing Car
Specifications
| Body Type | Hatchback |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 3595 x 1595 x 1490 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 152mm |
| Displacement | 1000 cc |
| Transmission | Manual & Automatic |
| Horsepower | 68 hp |
| Torque | 94 Nm |
| Boot Space | 200 L |
| Kerb Weight | 978 Kg |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| Mileage | 12 – 15 KM/L |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L |
| Seating Capacity | 5 Persons |
| Top Speed | 180 KM/H |
| Tire Size | 165/65/14 |
Price
| Variants | Ex-Factory Price |
| KIA Picanto 1.0 MT 1000 cc, Manual, Petrol | PKR 3,600,000 |
| KIA Picanto 1.0 AT 1000 cc, Manual, Petrol | PKR 3,850,000 |
The Kia Picanto 2nd Generation boasts a compact design that features Kia’s distinctive tiger-nose grille in black mesh with a chrome outline, contributing to its stylish appearance. Indeed, it’s the best car under Rs. 40 Lakhs in Pakistan with so many rich features.
The front end is adorned with multi-focus reflector headlamps equipped with daytime running lights, enhancing visibility and aesthetics. At the rear, the car is equipped with rear combination lamps, a rear screen wiper for added convenience, and a purposeful spoiler for a sporty touch.
The rear screen on this car has a defogger, providing improved visibility in adverse weather conditions. Notably, the Kia Picanto incorporates electrically adjustable and heated side mirrors, adding to the overall functionality and comfort of the vehicle.
The Kia Picanto 2nd Generation offers a comfortable interior space designed for five passengers across both variants. The motor-driven power steering, available in a two-spoke design, incorporates electronic power steering and is tilt-adjustable with trip meter steering control for enhanced driving convenience.
The instrument cluster has a tachometer, trip computer, and a manual transmission shift indicator. The rear seats feature headrests, seatbelts for all three passengers, and ISOFIX availability for child seat installation.
Entertainment-wise, the Picanto comes standard with MP3 integration, radio, AUX, USB, digital clock, Bluetooth audio, and call function. Both variants feature four speakers for a satisfactory audio experience, with an optional 9-inch LCD player.
Standard features include cupholders, assist grips, a 12-volt interior accessory socket, an ashtray, and a sunglasses holder. The overhead console, gear clutch foot, glovebox, luggage area, and front passenger foot area are equipped with lamps.
Additionally, there’s a luggage box under the front passenger’s seat, and the rear seats can split 60/40 to provide more storage space.
The Picanto prioritizes security with features such as a folding-type keyless entry, an immobilizer, central door locking, a burglar alarm, and a security system. Front seats are equipped with airbags for added safety.
The car is facilitated with a manual air conditioning heating system, while an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is included to enhance driving control and safety.
The Kia Picanto 2nd Generation is powered by a Euro 2 compliant 998cc MPI inline 3-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine delivers a maximum power of 69 hp at 6,200 rpm, and a maximum torque of 9.6 Nm at 3,500 rpm.
However, it’s worth noting that the Picanto 2nd Generation has a mileage of 12-15 km/l, which is comparatively lower than some of its competitors in the same engine displacement bracket.
While the vehicle offers various features and specifications, potential buyers may consider fuel efficiency as the primary factor for buying this car.
Kia Picanto 2024 faces competition from the Suzuki Cultus and Suzuki Wagon-R in Pakistan. Suzuki dominates Pakistan’s hatchback market, enjoying a strong reputation and a well-established consumer base.
The most formidable competitor for the Picanto is Suzuki’s popular and budget-friendly vehicle, the Cultus. While the Cultus offers a slightly more spacious interior and better fuel efficiency, the Picanto embraces modern features such as airbags, IsoFix, and ABS. However, the Picanto comes at a higher price than the Suzuki Cultus.
Hi there! My name is Kashif Hussain, the lead author of PakDrive. I am a huge car enthusiast and avid traveller. I have a deep passion for exploring the world and experiencing new cultures, and I love nothing more than hitting the open road and discovering new adventures behind the wheel of my favourite car. Whether I’m cruising down a winding mountain road or speeding down the highway, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of the wind and the purr of the engine beneath me. I hope to share my love of cars and travel with all of you through my writing, and I can’t wait to see where the road takes us next.”