Top budget SUVs for first-time buyers in India (2026), compared on safety, features, pricing and ownership costs. The Tata Punch, Skoda Kylaq, Mahindra XUV 3XO, Tata Nexon, and Maruti Brezza currently dominate India’s compact SUV market, which now accounts for nearly 52% of all passenger vehicle sales. For a first-time buyer in January 2026, the choice isn't just about the lowest EMI—it’s about balancing safety ratings, real-world mileage, and the hidden cost of urban mainten