There are quite a few options that fall under your budget. However, without knowing your exact requirements, it will be hard to recommend one. That being said, Honda’s 121hp, 1.5-litre, four-cylinder i-VTEC petrol engine is one of the best around and stands out for its peppy nature and strong high-rev performance. This engine is offered with either a 6-speed manual or a CVT automatic in the Honda City sedan (₹11.95 lakh – 16.07 lakh) and the Honda Elevate SUV (₹11.60 lakh – 16.57 lakh), ex-showroom.
Alternatively, there’s Maruti’s 103hp, 1.5-litre petrol engine that can be found in a number of models and its known for its relaxed nature and fuel efficiency. Hyundai’s 115hp, 1.5-litre petrol unit is also another option that can be found in a number of Hyundai-Kia models, and it impresses with its refinement.