Diesel SUVs continue to dominate long-distance driving in India thanks to their strong torque, superior cruising ability and excellent fuel efficiency. Whether you need a rugged off-roader, a high-feature midsize SUV or an affordable compact model, there are still several strong diesel offerings on sale.
Here’s the updated list of the 10 best diesel SUVs in India, covering all budgets and segments — plus a bonus entry for value seekers.
1. Toyota Fortuner — Still the Benchmark
Price: ₹34.28 lakh – ₹48.84 lakh
Power: 2.8L diesel (204 PS, up to 500 Nm)
The Fortuner remains India’s most trusted full-size diesel SUV. It excels in durability, reliability and rough-road capability, even if not the most feature-heavy. Ideal for long-term owners and highway travellers.
2. Mahindra Bolero Neo — Tough Yet Urban-Friendly
Price: ₹8.49 lakh – ₹10.49 lakh
Power: 1.5L diesel (100 PS, 260 Nm)
A modern spin on the original Bolero with better interiors and ride comfort. A great choice for those who want rugged Mahindra DNA in an urban-ready package.
3. Mahindra XUV 3XO — Feature-Rich Compact Diesel SUV
Price: ₹8.95 lakh – ₹13.43 lakh
Power: 1.5L diesel (116 PS, 300 Nm)
Panoramic sunroof, dual 10.25-inch screens, ADAS, and the segment’s most powerful diesel make the 3XO a top pick for tech-focused buyers.
4. Kia Sonet — Stylish & Highly Equipped
Price: ₹8.98 lakh – ₹14 lakh
Power: 1.5L diesel (116 PS, 250 Nm)
The Sonet offers excellent features, strong build quality and the rare option of a diesel torque-converter automatic.
5. Tata Nexon — Safety Champion with Diesel Efficiency
Price: ₹9.01 lakh – ₹14.05 lakh
Power: 1.5L diesel (116 PS, 260 Nm)
Among India’s safest compact SUVs with a punchy diesel, good ride comfort and strong value.
6. Hyundai Venue — New-Gen Tech with Trusted Diesel
Price: ₹9.70 lakh – ₹15.69 lakh
Power: 1.5L diesel (116 PS, 250 Nm)
A fresh design, more features and a refined diesel engine make it a perfect urban-family SUV.
7. Mahindra Thar — The Lifestyle Off-Roader
Price: ₹9.99 lakh – ₹16.99 lakh
Power:
– 1.5L diesel (118 PS, 300 Nm)
– 2.2L diesel (132 PS, 300 Nm)
If adventure is the priority, nothing beats the Thar. Rugged, capable and now more comfortable than ever.
8. Mahindra XUV700 — Advanced, Powerful and Spacious
Price: ₹14.13 lakh – ₹23.71 lakh
Power: 2.2L diesel (up to 185 PS, 450 Nm)
Still one of India’s most complete family SUVs, offering strong performance, ADAS, features and comfort.
9. Kia Seltos — Premium, Polished & Practical
Price: ₹12.32 lakh – ₹19.81 lakh
Power: 1.5L diesel (116 PS, 250 Nm)
A premium midsize SUV with excellent build quality, a strong diesel engine and an all-rounded package.
10. Hyundai Creta — India’s Best-Selling Diesel SUV
Price: ₹12.25 lakh – ₹20.20 lakh
Power: 1.5L diesel (116 PS, 250 Nm)
The Creta shines with its spacious cabin, smooth diesel engine, strong features and unmatched popularity.
check out:Top 10 Best Diesel SUVs You Can Buy in India Right Now
