On-Road Car Prices in Thiruvananthapuram - February 2026

Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, is home to a well-connected network of authorized dealerships representing virtually every major car brand sold in India. When you see an advertised ex-showroom price, that is only the starting point. The on-road price in Thiruvananthapuram includes the ex-showroom cost, Kerala state road tax, RTO registration and number plate charges, and a first-year or long-term insurance premium. Depending on the model and variant, the on-road figure can be anywhere from eight to fifteen percent higher than the ex-showroom price.

Kerala calculates road tax as a percentage of the vehicle's purchase price, and this percentage varies based on the cost slab of the car. Affordable vehicles in lower price brackets attract a comparatively modest tax rate, while premium and luxury cars fall into higher slabs where the tax percentage increases. This progressive structure means that two cars with a small difference in ex-showroom price could end up with noticeably different road tax amounts if they fall into different slabs. Diesel and petrol variants of the same model may also differ slightly in tax because their ex-showroom prices are not identical. It is worth noting that Kerala's road tax is a one-time payment made at the time of registration, which is a relief compared to states that levy recurring annual taxes.

The RTO process in Thiruvananthapuram is handled through the Regional Transport Office located in the city. After purchasing the car, the dealer typically assists with submitting Form 20 and other documents for registration. You will need proof of address, identity, insurance, and the invoice. Temporary registration is issued first, and permanent plates follow within a few weeks. RTO charges include a fixed registration fee and the cost of the number plate, which together add a few thousand rupees to the on-road total.

Insurance is another significant component. Third-party liability insurance is mandatory, and most buyers opt for a comprehensive policy that also covers own damage. The premium depends on the car's insured declared value, engine cubic capacity, and the type of coverage chosen. Add-ons like zero depreciation, roadside assistance, and engine protection push the premium higher. For an accurate on-road comparison across models, always compare insurance quotes for similar coverage levels.

If you are deciding between multiple cars in Thiruvananthapuram, the smartest approach is to look beyond sticker prices. Compare the total on-road cost variant by variant, factor in the road tax slab each car falls into, and ensure insurance coverage is equivalent before drawing conclusions. A car that looks cheaper on paper may not always remain the most affordable once all charges are added. This page provides on-road prices for all models available in the city so you can make a well-informed decision without visiting multiple dealerships.