Top 5 Most Affordable Diesel SUVs In India That You Can Still Buy

With stricter emission norms and the growing popularity of electric powertrains, diesel engines have become rare especially in the affordable SUV space. However, if you prefer a more torquey engine option, there are still a few budget-friendly SUVs available with a diesel powertrain. Here’s a look at five of the most affordable diesel SUVs in India that you can buy until more stringent rules phase them out.

Hyundai Venue

Price: Rs 7.94 lakh to Rs 13.62 Lakh (ex-showroom)

First up on the list is the Hyundai Venue that is offered with 1.5-litre diesel engine choice along with petrol engine options. The 1.5-litre diesel unit in the Venue produces 116 PS and 250 Nm, and is mated only to a 6-speed manual transmission option. It delivers a claimed mileage of 24.2 kmpl. Top features include, a powered driver’s seat, sunroof, connected car tech, an 8-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto, a digital driver's display, wireless phone charging, and Level 1 ADAS.

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Price: Rs 7.99 lakh to Rs 15.80 Lakh (ex-showroom)

Mahindra offers the XUV 3XO with a 1.5-litre diesel engine that delivers the highest power output figures on this list. It produces 117 PS and 300 Nm, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Recently, Mahindra introduced the REVX variant lineup for the XUV 3XO. However, it is not offered with the 1.5-litre diesel engine and includes only petrol powertrain options.

Kia Sonet

Price: Rs 8 lakh to Rs 15.64 Lakh (ex-showroom)

The Kia Sonet shares the same diesel unit found with the Venue producing the same output figures. However, the 116 PS 1.5-litre diesel engine in the Sonet can also be opted with a 6-speed automatic gearbox, along with a 6-speed manual transmission option. The claimed fuel efficiency for the Sonet diesel is 24.1 kmpl with the manual transmission option, while the diesel-automatic combo delivers a claimed mileage of 19 kmpl.

Tata Nexon

Price: Rs 8 lakh to Rs 15.60 Lakh (ex-showroom)

Along with the turbo-petrol engine option, Tata Motors also offers the Nexon with a 1.5-litre diesel engine. The diesel unit puts out 115 PS and 260 Nm, and can be had with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed AMT gearbox. It is an ideal pick for drivers who cover long distances and are looking for better fuel efficiency than petrol. That said, the Nexon offers a claimed mileage of up to 24.08 kmpl from its diesel engine.

Mahindra Bolero

Price: Rs 9.70 lakh to Rs 10.93 Lakh (ex-showroom)

The final SUV on our list is the Mahindra Bolero, which remains a popular choice in semi-urban markets. It is available only with a 76 PS / 210 Nm 1.5-litre diesel engine, paired only to a 5-speed manual gearbox and a rear-wheel drivetrain. While it’s not the most powerful option here, its robust build makes it a preferred choice for tough conditions. 

The SUVs listed above cater to those who still swear by diesel power. Whether you prefer a feature-packed SUV or a tough one for driving through rough terrains, these options cater to different needs. Which one matches your style? Share your pick in the comments below!