9. Mahindra Thar
This ever green retro jeep style SUV from Mahindra is one of the favourite despite its lack of premium features. It has an excellent engine which combines well with gearbox to deliver power and torque which makes cruising in this vehicle, almost effortless. The ride quality has improved quite a bit and its off-road capabilities are well loved all around. What makes Thar different from other jeeps is the fact that this particular vehicle comes with warranty for parts and is supported by a substantial number of service centres.
You can’t really compare the quality of the interiors with other SUVs and compact SUVs in India under 10 lakhs because this vehicle has a class of its own while it appeals to a certain section of people who aren’t particularly looking for something with lots of features rather they want to own something rugged that gives them a sense of power and has a whole macho feel to it. However, with this, the capabilities of the SUV are limited. For instance, you can’t really take the car above 100kmph because of the massive vibrations that you’ll feel which is bound to make any driver nervous.
It’s tough, it’s durable and it’s a class apart! If you are one of those who are looking for off-roading on a daily basis and if you’re ready to make certain compromises in terms of features, then this is the vehicle for you.
| Price | Rs. 8.17 lakhs |
| Engine | NEF TCI- CRDe 2498cc/ MDI 3200TC L 2523cc |
| Power | (NEF TCI- CRDe) 106.4 PS @ 3800rpm/ (MDI 3200TC L) 63.8 PS @ 3200rpm |
| Torque | (NEF TCI CRDe) 247Nm @ 1800 – 2000rpm/ (MDI 3200TC L) 182.5Nm @ 1500 – 1800rpm |
| Transmission | Manual |
| Mileage | 13kmpl |
| Pros | Retro Jeep style, Solid engine, Off road competency |
| Cons | Nervous Steering, Poor interior quality, Absence of hardtop |
*Prices are ex-showroom New Delhi
10. Maruti Gypsy
Maruti Gypsy is a four wheel drive offered by Maruti Suzuki in India. Powered by a 1298cc engine, this particular SUV will go anywhere you wish but be prepared that it might crack your bones a little because you will definitely feel each and every bump that it passes through. It is powered only by a petrol engine and by far this probably is one of those few petrol mills that are considered to be at par, refined and much powerful than a diesel engine.
The vehicle is most well known for being an SUV that can go on any terrain and deal with any situation. In terms of features, it’s quite basic but with the new updates time and again there is everything that you’ll need. The best review for this particular SUV is the fact that it has been on sale for over 30 years and today it is the loved vehicle of the Indian Army. It might be too basic but it definitely is worth mentioning among the best SUVs in India under 10 lakhs.
| Price | Rs. 5.71 lakhs – Rs. 6.41 lakhs |
| Engine | 1.3litres |
| Power | 81.1 PS @ 6000rpm |
| Torque | 103Nm @ 4500rpm |
| Transmission | Manual |
| Mileage | 11.96kmpl |
| Pros | Off-roading capabilities, no nonsense ownership experience, |
| Cons | Sudden brakes feel risky, too basic |
*Prices are ex-showroom New Delhi
