Navigating the tight, chaotic streets and cramped parking spots of Indian cities can be a nerve-wracking experience. A small misjudgment can lead to a heartbreaking scratch or a dent. Thankfully, a feature once reserved for high-end luxury vehicles is now making its way into the mainstream market: the 360° camera.

Also known as a surround-view monitor or bird's-eye view camera, this system uses multiple cameras around the vehicle to stitch together a composite, top-down view of your car and its immediate surroundings. It’s a game-changer for parking in tight spots, maneuvering through narrow lanes, and spotting low-lying obstacles you might otherwise miss.

If you're in the market for a new car and have a budget of Rs.15 lakh, you're in luck. Here’s a list of the best cars that offer this invaluable feature without breaking the bank.

1. Nissan Magnite

The Nissan Magnite was the true pioneer, bringing the 360° camera to the sub-compact SUV segment at an unbelievable price point. It shook up the market and forced competitors to follow suit. While its camera quality may not be the sharpest in the segment, its presence at this price is its biggest strength.

• The Feature: Available in the top-tier XV Premium variant, Nissan's "Around View Monitor" is a massive confidence booster for new drivers and city dwellers alike. It makes parking the stylish SUV a breeze.
• Why It's a Great Choice: The Magnite offers a peppy 1.0L turbo-petrol engine, a smooth CVT automatic option, high ground clearance, and a bold, muscular design that stands out.
• Variants with 360° Camera: XV Premium, XV Premium (O)

2. Maruti Suzuki Brezza

The Brezza has been a household name in the compact SUV space for years. With its latest generation, Maruti Suzuki loaded it with features, including the much-sought-after 360° camera, making an already popular SUV even more desirable.

• The Feature: Integrated into the same 9-inch infotainment system as the Baleno, the Brezza's surround-view system is a huge asset for a vehicle of its size. The dynamic guidelines and clear display make it easy to place the car perfectly.
• Why It's a Great Choice: The Brezza boasts a refined 1.5L petrol engine with mild-hybrid technology for excellent mileage, a sunroof, a commanding driving position, and a strong, boxy SUV stance.
• Variants with 360° Camera: ZXi, ZXi+

3. Tata Nexon

Tata has always been at the forefront of safety, and with the 2023 facelift, it has leaped ahead in the technology game as well. The new Tata Nexon now comes with a high-definition 360° camera system that offers both 2D and 3D views, setting a new benchmark in the segment.

• The Feature: The camera feed is crisp and clear on the large new touchscreen. The ability to switch to a 3D view, which you can rotate, gives you an unparalleled understanding of your car's surroundings. It's easily one of the best implementations under Rs.15 lakh.
• Why It's a Great Choice: The Nexon is a 5-star GNCAP-rated vehicle, known for its robust build quality. The facelift brings a stunning new design, a futuristic interior, a powerful turbo-petrol engine, and a feature list that rivals cars from a segment above.
• Variants with 360° Camera: Creative, Creative+, Fearless, Fearless+

4. Maruti Suzuki Fronx

The latest sensation from Maruti Suzuki, the Fronx, blends the practicality of a hatchback with the style of a coupe-SUV. Based on the Baleno, it naturally inherits the best features, including the 360° camera system.

• The Feature: Just like its sibling, the Fronx gets the 360° camera in its higher trims, displayed on the floating 9-inch touchscreen. It’s perfect for maneuvering this stylish crossover in the urban jungle.
• Why It's a Great Choice: The Fronx offers two engine options, including the powerful 1.0L Boosterjet turbo-petrol. Its unique design, high ground clearance, and feature-packed cabin make it a very compelling package.
• Variants with 360° Camera: Zeta, Alpha

Conclusion

The inclusion of a 360° camera is no longer a luxury but a significant safety and convenience feature that makes daily driving much less stressful. Carmakers have recognized this need, and the options available today under Rs.15 lakh are better than ever. Before you make your final decision, be sure to take a test drive and experience the camera system for yourself.