Automotive Industry & Policy – How GST 2.0 Is Changing Car Prices in India

Welcome to the automotive hub of CG Dhamaka India. If you follow car news, you’ve probably heard the buzz about GST 2.0. It’s the government’s latest tax tweak, and it’s shaking up prices across the market. In this section we’ll break down what the new tax rules mean for small cars, electric vehicles, and the big boys on the road.

GST 2.0 and the new small‑car tax

Effective from this fiscal year, GST 2.0 drops the tax on small cars to 18%. That’s a big shift from the previous 28% plus cess. The move also keeps electric vehicles at a low 5% rate, encouraging green rides. Meanwhile, cars over the 1.2‑tonne mark get a flat 40% GST, and the extra cess disappears. The idea? Make cars more affordable ahead of the festive buying spree.

Manufacturers wasted no time. Hyundai announced price cuts on models like the Creta and Venue. Tata started rolling out reductions on the Nexon and Altroz, and Maruti is expected to follow suit. The headline figure you’ll see in showrooms ranges from a modest ₹40,000 drop to as much as ₹8.9 lakh on select models.

What the price cuts mean for you

So, how does this affect a regular buyer? First, the outright cost of a small car like the Hyundai Creta or Kia Seltos can now dip below the ₹10 lakh mark, making ownership realistic for many families. Second, electric models such as the Tata Nexon EV become even more attractive with the combined benefit of low tax and lower running costs.

If you’re hunting for a deal, check the latest listings for the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Tata Nexon, and Maruti Swift. Look for the “GST 2.0 price cut” tag in dealer ads – it’s their way of highlighting the tax‑driven discount. Don’t forget to ask about the final on‑road price, which includes registration, insurance, and any state‑level fees.

From a broader perspective, the tax reform aims to boost demand across the segment. Lower prices should translate into higher sales volume, which in turn could lead to better financing offers from banks. Keep an eye on loan interest rates; they often drop when manufacturers push more units.

In short, GST 2.0 is more than a number change on paper. It’s a real‑world price shave that can save you lakhs of rupees. Whether you’re eyeing a compact hatchback, a midsize SUV, or an EV, the new tax structure gives you more bargaining power. Stay updated with CG Dhamaka India for the latest policy shifts and how they affect your next car purchase.

Arvind Kulkarni September 9, 2025

GST 2.0 slashes small-car tax to 18%: Nexon, Brezza, Creta, Swift see big price cuts

India’s new GST 2.0 lowers tax on small cars to 18% and keeps EVs at 5%, triggering price cuts from ₹40,000 to as high as ₹8.9 lakh on select models. Hyundai has announced reductions, Tata has started rolling them out, and Maruti is expected to follow. Larger vehicles move to a flat 40% without cess. The reform aims to boost demand and make cars more affordable ahead of the festive season.

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