For decades, buying a car or motorcycle in India has always been a family affair—researching models, pitching them to your spouse or parents, bargaining over budgets, and finally marching to the showroom for the grand purchase. But, like all good traditions, this too is getting a modern makeover. It’s no longer just about haggling over free floor mats or negotiating for last year’s model. Technology, electric vehicles (EVs), and a shift towards subscription models are reshaping the experience of purchasing a vehicle feel more like adding something to your Amazon cart than dealing with a hard-nosed salesman. 

The Good Old Way Isn’t Going Anywhere 

Sure, we’ve got all these fancy digital options, but when it comes to buying your next vehicle, nothing quite beats the in-person experience. Why? Because discounts are still king. Festival seasons like Diwali are practically open fields for bargains, with brands like Tata and Mahindra offering corporate discounts, cashback deals and buyback offers to get older models off the lot. Throw in some solid negotiating skills and you might walk away with an even better deal than what was advertised. 

Loans are also still very much in play. Buyers can still walk into banks or go through NBFCs for flexible EMI options and pick something that offers a low interest rate and minimal paperwork. Combine that with showroom-exclusive discounts and you’ll see that the old-school way still holds a lot of appeal.  

Subscription Models: Renting Is the New Owning 

Think Netflix, but for cars. You pay a monthly fee, drive as much as you want and leave the maintenance headaches to someone else. Subscription models are slowly taking off in India’s urban centres, where flexibility is king. Platforms like Zoomcar and Revv let you subscribe to a car for a few months to a few years. Revv even claims that its plans are 25 per cent cheaper than EMI payments on new cars. What’s more, you even get a car with a white license plate in your name if you pass the credit check. 

Some car manufacturers, including Tata and Mahindra, are also in the subscription game, offering various plans for their electric vehicles. It's ideal for people who need a car but don't want the long-term hassle of ownership. 

MG’s Battery-as-a-Service Model: Welcome to the EV-olution 

MG Motor India is doing something clever with its Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model for the MG Windsor EV. In a nutshell, you buy the car minus the battery, and instead of owning it, you subscribe to a battery rental plan that costs around Rs 3.5 per kilometre. This lowers the entry price of the car itself, making EVs more affordable. Priced at Rs 9.99 lakh (introductory offer), the Windsor boasts a 331-kilometre range, with the battery charging up to 80 per cent in just 40 minutes. And if you’re an early adopter, MG throws in a lifetime battery warranty, year of free charging and an assured 60% buyback guarantee after three years or 45,000 kms—pretty sweet, right? 

Mercedes-Benz Goes Online: Luxury With the Convenience of E-Commerce 

Mercedes has made car buying feel almost like ordering a designer handbag online. Their "My Mercedes, My Choice" program allows you to configure or customise your car, book a test drive, and explore payment options—all online. Want concierge services and emergency assistance at the click of a button post-purchase? Their app, Mercedes Me Connect, has you covered. Similar options are also offered by luxury giants like Range Rover, Audi and more, where you can reserve your ride online, customise it, and more.  

Leasing and Pre-Owned Programs: Flexibility for All 

Leasing a car isn’t just for big corporations anymore. Maruti Suzuki, for example, now offers leasing options on models like the Swift and Brezza for individuals too, with lease terms that span from 12 to 60 months (1-5 years). This package includes insurance, maintenance and roadside assistance, offering an all-in-one deal without the headaches of long-term ownership. 

The Revolution of the Second-Hand Market 

For pre-owned vehicles, platforms like Spinny and Cars24 have revolutionized the second-hand market. They offer certified pre-owned cars with warranties, full inspection reports, and financing options, which makes buying used cars a lot less risky and way more convenient. It's perfect for budget-conscious buyers who want reliability without splurging on a new ride. 

Buying A Car Or Bike Online: Now Just a Click Away 

Buying a motorcycle in India has never been easier—especially if you’re fine with skipping the traditional dealership experience. Both Amazon and Flipkart now sell select models from Bajaj and Hero. You can place an order online, grab some exclusive discounts, and pay the ex-showroom price, but you’ll still need to visit the dealership to handle the RTO, insurance and other formalities. But hey, for those discounts, it’s probably worth the extra trip.