The GST Council, chaired by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, has announced a major change in vehicle taxation. From September 22, GST on most cars and two-wheelers has been reduced from 28% to 18%. However, luxury and premium vehicles will attract higher taxes, with some moving into the 40% tax slab.
Two-wheelers with engines up to 350cc will also benefit. Bestsellers like Honda Shine, Yamaha FZ, TVS Apache, and Bajaj Pulsar could see prices fall by nearly 10%. For example, a bike priced at 1 lakh may now cost Rs 10,000 less, giving a big relief to budget-conscious riders.
While smaller vehicles are becoming cheaper, luxury cars, SUVs, and bikes above 350cc are moving into the 40% GST bracket. This means their prices will rise by 10-12% or more. A Royal Enfield 650cc, currently priced at Rs 3.6 lakh, could now cross the Rs 4 lakh mark.
Whereas, the Classic 350, still within the lower tax category, could drop from Rs 2.25 lakh to Rs 2.05 lakh.
Even mid-size sedans around 15 lakh may see a modest 3-5% reduction, saving buyers around Rs 45,000-Rs75,000.