How to Check a Car’s On-Road Price in India – 2025 Buyer’s Guide
Want to know how to calculate the actual on-road price of a car in India? Here’s a step-by-step 2025 guide to understanding ex-showroom price vs. on-road price.
When planning to buy a new car, many buyers are surprised to discover that the on-road price is significantly higher than the ex-showroom price they saw in advertisements. Understanding the difference is crucial to budgeting your purchase effectively.
In this guide, we break down what’s included in the on-road price, how to calculate it, and the best ways to check it in 2025.
1. What is Ex-Showroom Price?
The ex-showroom price is the cost of the car without taxes and registration charges. It includes:
- Factory cost
- Dealer margin
- GST
However, this is not what you’ll pay to drive the car home.
2. What is On-Road Price?
The on-road price includes:
- Ex-showroom price
- RTO registration charges
- Road tax
- Insurance (mandatory)
- Handling & logistics charges
- Optional accessories
- Fastag and extended warranty (optional)
This is the final amount you need to pay to own and drive the vehicle legally.
3. How to Calculate On-Road Price?
Let’s say you’re buying a car with an ex-showroom price of ₹10 lakh. Here’s an approximate breakdown:
- Ex-Showroom Price: ₹10,00,000
- RTO Registration: ₹80,000
- Road Tax: ₹70,000
- Insurance: ₹45,000
- Handling Charges: ₹6,000
- Fastag: ₹500
Total On-Road Price: ₹11,01,500
Note: This varies by state and vehicle category.
4. How to Check On-Road Price in 2025?
Here are a few quick ways to find on-road prices in your city:
- Visit official brand websites (like Maruti, Hyundai, Tata, etc.)
- Use aggregator portals like CarDekho, ZigWheels, or CarWale
- Check with local dealerships – some even provide city-wise quotes
- Use mobile apps like Park+ or Droom for quick estimations
5. Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
- Dealer-level charges: Accessories, polishing, seat covers
- Insurance markup: Ask for a breakdown or get quotes from outside providers
- Registration mismatch: Ensure the RTO charges align with your city’s rate
Final Tips
- Always ask for a detailed price breakup from the dealer.
- Use multiple online tools to compare on-road prices in different cities.
- If you’re relocating soon, consider registering in your upcoming city to save tax.
Understanding the full on-road cost ensures you don’t get caught off guard with surprise charges and can negotiate better. Make informed decisions for a smooth car-buying experience in 2025.
