As India races toward a cleaner and more sustainable automotive future, the affordability of diesel SUVs becomes a focal point for budget-conscious buyers. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas’s recent plea to phase out diesel passenger vehicles by 2027 in Indian cities has intensified the spotlight on fuel-efficient alternatives. In this pursuit of eco-conscious driving, we present the top 5 most affordable diesel SUVs in the Indian market.
India’s Most Affordable Diesel SUVs
Mahindra Bolero/Bolero Neo
| Prices | Bolero Neo – Rs 9.63 to12.14 lakh, Bolero SUV – Rs 9.79 to 10.80 lakh |
| Variant | Bolero SUV – B4, B6, B6 (O), Bolero Neo – N4, N8, N10, N10 (O) |
| Engine | 1.5L turbo diesel |
| Power | Bolero – 74.9bhp/210Nm, Bolero Neo – 100bhp/ 260Nm |
At the forefront of the lineup, we find the Mahindra Bolero and Bolero Neo, delivering robust performance at enticing price points of Rs 9.63 lakh and Rs 9.79 lakh, respectively. The Bolero SUV range encompasses three distinct variants – B4, B6, and B6 (O) – with price tags of Rs 9.79 lakh, Rs 10 lakh, and Rs 10.80 lakh, in that order. Meanwhile, the Mahindra Bolero Neo boasts four distinct variants – N4, N8, N10, and N10 (O), with the range-topping N10 (O) commanding a price of Rs 12.14 lakh. Both these SUVs draw power from a 1.5L turbo diesel engine, delivering 74.9 bhp in the Bolero and 100 bhp with 260Nm of torque in the Bolero Neo.
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Kia Sonet
| Prices | Rs 9.95 to 14.89 lakh |
| Variants | 11 diesel variants |
| Engine | 1.5L turbo diesel |
| Power | 100bhp/240Nm (MT), 115bhp/250Nm (AT) |
Closely trailing behind, the Kia Sonet perfectly balances style and value, offering a price range spanning from Rs 9.95 lakh to Rs 14.89 lakh. This versatile model lineup consists of 11 diesel variants, including an Anniversary Edition. Under the hood lies a potent 1.5L turbo motor, which can be paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. The diesel powertrain impresses with its performance, delivering 100 bhp and 240Nm of torque with the manual transmission and 115 bhp and 250Nm of torque with the automatic gearbox.
Mahindra XUV300
| Prices | Rs 10.21 to 14.76 lakh |
| Variants | 9 diesel variants |
| Engine | 1.5L turbo diesel |
| Power | 115bhp/ 300Nm |
The Mahindra XUV300 stands out with its contemporary design and a price range of Rs 10.21 lakh to Rs 14.76 lakh (exclusive to diesel variants). Offering nine diesel options equipped with a 1.5L turbo diesel engine and both manual and AMT gearbox choices. This oil-burning powerplant cranks out an impressive 115 bhp and 300Nm of torque. The subcompact SUV comes generously equipped with features, including leather upholstery, a rear armrest, machined alloy wheels, a sunroof, auto-dimming interior mirror, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and dual-zone automatic AC.
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Hyundai Venue
| Prices | Rs 10.46 to 13.48 lakh |
| Variants | S Plus, SX, SX DT, SX (O), SX (O) DT |
| Engine | 1.5L turbo diesel |
| Power | 115bhp/250Nm |
Hyundai’s Venue seamlessly combines affordability and urban sophistication, with prices ranging from Rs 10.46 lakh to Rs 13.48 lakh. The entry-level S Plus diesel variant starts at Rs 10.46 lakh, while the SX, SX dual-tone, SX (O), and SX (O) dual-tone variants are priced at Rs 12.20 lakh, Rs 12.35 lakh, Rs 12.99 lakh, and Rs 13.14 lakh, respectively. Powering this subcompact SUV is a 1.5L turbo diesel engine that produces 115 bhp and 250Nm of torque. The Venue received a mid-life update in mid-2022, and it’s poised to usher in its next-generation iteration in 2025.
Tata Nexon
| Prices | Rs 11 to 15.50 lakh |
| Variants | 30 diesel variants |
| Engine | 1.5L diesel |
| Power | 115bhp/260Nm |
Last but certainly not least, the Tata Nexon underscores Tata’s dedication to diesel efficiency, with a price spectrum extending from Rs 11 lakh to Rs 15.50 lakh. Buyers are spoiled for choice with a whopping 30 diesel variants, encompassing manual and AMT gearbox options. All iterations share a 1.5L diesel engine that churns out an impressive 115 bhp and 260Nm of torque. The Nexon recently underwent a substantial update, introducing a diverse model lineup comprising trims such as Smart, Smart+, Smart+ S, Pure, Pure S, Creative, Creative+, Creative+ S, Fearless, Fearless S, and Fearless+ S. The ‘+’ designation denotes optional packages offering a range of additional features, while the ‘S’ signifies the inclusion of a sunroof.These options not only cater to budget-minded consumers but also align with the changing tides of environmental responsibility, making the transition to cleaner energy vehicles an accessible choice for all.
