Updated on - 10 Feb 2026
When buying a car, one of the most common questions people have is about the engine size. Many entry-level and mid-level cars in India are offered with a 1.0-litre engine or a 1.5-litre engine. At first glance, the difference may look small, but in reality, it makes a big difference in the way the car drives, performs and even in the money you spend on fuel and maintenance.
What is the difference between a 1.0 litre and a 1.5 litre engine?
The “litre” in engine size tells us the capacity of the engine. It shows the amount of air and fuel the engine can burn in one cycle. A 1.0L engine means the engine can displace 1.0 litre of air-fuel mixture inside its cylinders. Whereas, a 1.5L engine can displace 1.5 litres of air-fuel mixture.
How engine capacity affects performance
Engine size has a direct effect on performance:
- Power output: A 1.5L engine will usually make more horsepower and torque than a 1.0L engine. This means the car will feel faster, especially when overtaking on highways or driving with full passengers.
- Acceleration: Cars with 1.5L engines generally accelerate quickly.
- Load handling: If you often carry luggage or drive with many passengers, a 1.5L engine handles the load better.
- Smoothness: Bigger engines tend to feel smoother and less strained, especially on long drives.
A 1.0L engine can still be powerful if it comes with turbocharging, but generally, it is designed for light city use.
Fuel efficiency comparison: 1.0L vs 1.5L engine
Smaller engines usually consume less fuel in city traffic. They are lighter and need less fuel for basic movement. If your daily driving is mostly short distances inside the city, a 1.0L engine will usually give you better mileage.
1.5L engine burns more fuel compared to the 1.0L engine, but is more efficient on highways, because they do not need to work very hard at higher speeds.
However, modern technology like turbo engines and engine start-stop systems has narrowed the gap. So, the difference in mileage between 1.0L and 1.5L is not as big as it used to be.
Cost differences between 1.0L and 1.5L engine cars
When comparing costs, there are three areas to look at:
- Initial price: Cars with a 1.5L engine are usually more expensive to buy than the same model with a 1.0L engine.
- Running costs: A 1.0L engine generally gives better mileage in the city, so your daily fuel bill will be lower.
- Insurance: Insurance cost is slightly higher for bigger engine cars, because their value and repair costs are more.
Which engine is best for city driving?
In cities, the traffic is heavy, speeds are low and stop-and-go driving is common. A 1.0L engine is perfect for this kind of driving. As cars with smaller engines are often more compact, it is also easier to park and drive in narrow lanes.
So, for a person who mostly drives inside the city, a 1.0L engine car is usually the better choice.
Which engine is better for long-distance driving?
Highway driving needs more power for overtaking and for carrying luggage and passengers comfortably. A 1.5L engine shines here. It can cruise at higher speeds without feeling stressed. It offers smoother performance and makes long journeys less tiring.
If you regularly take road trips, travel to other cities or drive on highways, a 1.5L engine is the smarter option.
Maintenance and reliability: 1.0L vs 1.5L engines
- 0L engine: Maintenance is usually cheaper because there are fewer parts and smaller components. But if it is a turbo engine, it may need more care.
- 5L engine: Maintenance cost is a little higher, but these engines often last longer because they do not have to work as hard as smaller engines.
In terms of reliability, both engine types are strong, provided they are serviced on time.
Resale value comparison of 1.0L and 1.5L engine cars
1.0L engine cars are popular in cities because of low running costs, so they sell quickly in urban used car markets. 1.5L engine cars attract buyers who want performance and long-distance comfort. These also hold good value, especially in semi-urban and highway regions.
Common cars that offer 1.0L and 1.5L engine variants
Many popular models in India offer both 1.0L and 1.5L options.
- Volkswagen Taigun / Skoda Kushaq: Both these SUVs offer a 1.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol and a 1.5-litre TSI petrol engine.
- Skoda Slavia / Volkswagen Virtus: These sedans come with options of a 1.0-litre TSI petrol and a 1.5-litre TSI petrol engine.
- Hyundai Venue / Kia Sonet: These small SUVs offer a 1.0-litre turbo petrol variant and also a 1.5-litre diesel variant in some trims.
- Tata Altroz: This hatchback has both a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol option and a 1.5-litre diesel option among its engine lineup.
Pros and cons of a smaller 1.0L engine
Pros:
- Better mileage in city traffic
- Lower purchase cost
- Lower car insurance policy premium
- Easier to drive and to park in tight spaces
- Good for single users or small families
Cons:
- Less powerful, especially with full load
- Struggles on highways and steep roads
- May feel stressed on long journeys
- Turbo versions can be costly to maintain
Pros and cons of a bigger 1.5L engine
Pros:
- Strong power and torque
- Comfortable on highways and long drives
- Handles passengers and luggage easily
- Feels smooth and relaxed at higher speeds
- Often more durable in the long run
Cons:
- Higher purchase price
- Lower mileage in city driving
- Slightly higher maintenance and insurance
- Not as budget-friendly for daily short commutes
How to choose the right engine size based on your needs?
The choice between 1.0L and 1.5L depends on your driving style and lifestyle. Ask yourself these questions:
- Driving requirements
- City: Go for 1.0L.
- Highways/long trips: Go for 1.5L.
- Passengers carried
- Just you or 1-2 people: 1.0L is enough.
- Family of 4-5 with luggage: 1.5L is better.
- Budget
- If you want to save money on purchase and fuel, 1.0L makes sense.
- If you are okay spending more for comfort and performance, choose 1.5L.
- Longevity
- For short-term use, 1.0L is cheaper.
- For long-term ownership, 1.5L may give better durability and resale value.
Conclusion
Both 1.0L and 1.5L engines come with their own strengths and weaknesses, and the right choice depends largely on your driving needs and budget. Just like choosing the right engine, protecting your car with the right insurance is equally important. Repairs and replacements due to damage can come without warning, but the right policy can save you from heavy expenses.
To get simple and personalised advice on car insurance options that fit your needs, whether comprehensive or third-party car insurance, fill out the form provided on this page.
FAQ
1. Is a 1.0L engine underpowered?
Not always. For city driving, a 1.0L engine is usually enough. But for highways and heavy loads, it may feel weak.
2. Which lasts longer, a 1.0L or a 1.5L engine?
Both can last long if maintained well. However, 1.5L engines usually work less hard, so they may age better.
3. Does a bigger engine always mean less mileage?
Generally, yes, but new technology has improved efficiency. A well-tuned 1.5L engine on the highway can sometimes match a 1.0L in mileage.
4. Are 1.0L turbo engines better than normal 1.5L engines?
Turbo engines give more power from a small size, but they may need more care and maintenance. A naturally aspirated 1.5L is simpler and usually more reliable.
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