Top 10 Best Diesel SUVs You Can Buy in India : If you’re looking for a diesel SUV that blends long-distance comfort, powerful performance, and versatility, here’s a list of the top diesel SUVs in India 2025 to suit varied lifestyles-from family road trips to rugged off-road adventures.
Toyota Fortuner
The Toyota Fortuner remains a benchmark for muscular design and spacious interiors. Available in 4X2 and 4X4 versions, it features a 2.8-litre diesel engine producing 204 PS and up to 500 Nm torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual or automatic, and it offers both rear-wheel and four-wheel-drive configurations. Price ranges from Rs 34.28 lakh to Rs 48.84 lakh (ex-showroom).
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Mahindra Bolero Neo
The Bolero Neo combines rugged utility with modern style and improved infotainment. It sports a 1.5-litre diesel engine delivering 100 PS and 260 Nm torque with rear-wheel drive and a 5-speed manual transmission. This SUV is competitively priced between Rs 8.49 lakh and Rs 10.49 lakh.
Mahindra XUV 3XO
For city-friendly families, the XUV 3XO offers a fresh design, panoramic sunroof, dual 10.25-inch displays, and Level 2 ADAS. Its 1.5-litre diesel engine produces 116 PS and 300 Nm. Transmission options include 6-speed manual and 6-speed AMT. Prices range from Rs 8.95 lakh to Rs 13.43 lakh.
Kia Sonet
The Kia Sonet appeals to young enthusiasts with its striking design, spacious cabin, and smooth ride. Powered by a 1.5-litre diesel engine (116 PS, 250 Nm), it comes with 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions. Price spans Rs 8.98 lakh to Rs 14 lakh.
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Tata Nexon
The Tata Nexon stands out with modern minimalistic styling and a 5-star crash safety rating. Its 1.5-litre diesel engine delivers 116 PS and 260 Nm, paired with a 6-speed manual or AMT. Price goes from Rs 9.01 lakh to Rs 14.05 lakh.
Hyundai Venue
Hyundai Venue’s recent upgrade offers a premium feel, new design, and additional features. Retaining the 1.5-litre 116 PS diesel engine, it’s available with manual or torque converter automatic gearboxes. Prices lie between Rs 9.70 lakh and Rs 15.69 lakh.
Mahindra Thar
Known for its off-road capabilities, the updated Mahindra Thar offers two diesel engines (1.5-litre 118 PS and 2.2-litre 132 PS), both paired with 6-speed manual or automatic gearboxes, and available in rear- and four-wheel drive. Prices range from Rs 9.99 lakh to Rs 16.99 lakh.
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Mahindra XUV700
The facelifted XUV700, soon to re-launch as XUV 7XO, features a triple screen setup and design tweaks. Its 2.2-litre diesel engine outputs up to 185 PS and 450 Nm. Transmission options include 6-speed manual or automatic with all-wheel drive. Pricing is Rs 14.13 lakh to Rs 23.71 lakh.
Kia Seltos
Due for a December 2025 update, the Seltos retains the 1.5-litre diesel engine (116 PS, 250 Nm) with manual and automatic options. Expected enhancements include a bigger size and better features. Current price range is Rs 12.32 lakh to Rs 19.81 lakh.
Hyundai Creta
A best-seller in the compact SUV segment, the Hyundai Creta shares the 1.5-litre diesel engine with Venue and Seltos. It’s available with 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions. Prices range from Rs 12.25 lakh to Rs 20.20 lakh.
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Bonus: Tata Sierra
The Tata Sierra marks a modern comeback for the iconic name, featuring a 1.5-litre diesel engine with 118 PS and 260 Nm, coupled with 6-speed manual or automatic gearboxes. An all-wheel-drive version is expected soon.
These diesel SUVs cover a wide spectrum of needs-from rugged off-roaders like the Thar to urban-friendly options like the Venue and Nexon-offering choice for every budget and lifestyle in India today.
FAQs
Q1: Which diesel SUV offers the best off-road capability?
The Mahindra Thar is the top pick for off-road enthusiasts, with its muscular design and 4X4 drivetrain options.
Q2: What are the most fuel-efficient diesel SUVs?
The Tata Nexon, Kia Sonet, and Hyundai Venue are known for their efficient 1.5-litre diesel engines, balancing power and mileage.
Q3: Are there any diesel SUVs with premium features?
Yes, models like the Mahindra XUV700 and Kia Seltos offer advanced infotainment, panoramic sunroof, and safety tech at competitive prices.
