April auto sales, May 2 -- Three out of India's four leading passenger vehicle makers reported weak sales to dealers in April amid a continued slowdown in urban consumer demand, impacted by falling wages and rising prices, prompting budget-conscious buyers to postpone their vehicle purchase plans.

Entry-level cars, which are generally smaller, simpler, and more fuel-efficient, witnessed a sharp drop in sales during April, while the utility vehicle segment continued to race ahead at full throttle.

The sustained decline in demand for budget-friendly cars in recent months has also prompted companies to alter their production plans. Maruti Suzuki, the country's leading car manufacturer, reported a 45% drop in sales of mini-segment cars, com...