Indians have always favoured diesel cars due to their high mileage and power. Given the new BS-VI compliances, diesel engines have also evolved. We have made a comprehensive list of cars to help you choose your new diesel-driven ride.

Also, it is crucial to know that having car insurance is mandatory if you plan to buy a car in India, as per the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988. It offers financial protection against accidents, theft, traffic fines, and damage, thus safeguarding your investment.

Let’s take a look at a few options when it comes to the best diesel cars in India.

1. Hyundai i20 | Starting ₹8.05 Lakh

Since its launch, this premium hatchback has been one of Indians' favourite cars. Its exterior features modern elements, such as LED projector headlamps and an electric sunroof. Additionally, the engine can produce 118 BHP and 172 Nm of torque.

Key Specifications: 

• Mileage: 25.0 kmpl
• Engine Displacement: 1493cc
• Seating Capacity: 5 seats
• Body Type: Hatchback
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Transmission: Automatic/ Manual
• Airbags: 6
• Key Features: Power steering, front, anti-lock braking system, air conditioner, power windows, automatic climate control, fog lights – front, alloy wheels.
• Safety: ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ADAS, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts, Hill Assist, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Speed Sensing Auto Door lock

2. TATA Nexon | Starting ₹8.44 Lakhs

The Nexon is a compact SUV from Tata Motors, one of India's most trustworthy car brands. This 5-seater SUV has a staggering 36 variants and is BS-VI compliant. It has petrol and diesel engines to choose from and two transmission modes, manual and automatic. 

The Nexon also has a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 10.25-inch digital driver's display.

This is one of the best mileage diesel SUVs in India by Tata and comes in 5 color options.

Key Specifications:

• Mileage: 24.08 kmpl
• Engine Displacement: 1497cc
• Seating Capacity: 5 seats
• Body Type: SUV
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Transmission: Automatic/ Manual
• Airbags: 6
• Key Features: Power steering, power windows front, anti-lock braking system, air conditioner, Sunroof, automatic climate control, fog lights front, alloy wheels, and a 360-degree camera.
• Safety: ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ADAS, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts, Hill Descent Control, Hill Assist, 360 View Camera, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock

3. Kia Sonet | Starting ₹9.09 Lakh

The 2024 Kia Sonet was introduced in India on April 3, 2024. The upgraded Sonet comes with LED headlights, 16-inch alloy wheels, an electric sunroof, a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a digital instrument cluster. 

The new Sonet continues its rivalry with the Mahindra XUV300, Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Renault Kiger, and Nissan Magnite.

Key Specifications:

• Mileage: 24.08 kmpl
• Engine Displacement: 1497cc
• Seating Capacity: 5 
• Body Type: Compact SUV
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Transmission: Automatic/ Manual
• Airbags: 6
• Key Features: Power steering, power windows front, anti-lock braking system, air conditioner, Sunroof, automatic climate control, fog lights – front, alloy wheels, and a 360-degree camera.
• Safety: ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), ADAS, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts, Hill Descent Control, Hill Assist, 360 View Camera and Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock

4. TATA Altroz | Starting ₹6.64 Lakh

This 5-seater hatchback from Tata comes with two engine options, petrol and diesel. Both these engines are BS-VI compliant and offer one mode of transmission- manual. The car offers a boot space of 345 litres. It is one of the best mileage diesel cars in India.

This vehicle is available in five distinct colour options.

Key Specifications:

•  Mileage: 23.03 kmpl
• Engine Displacement: 1497cc
• Seating Capacity:  5 seats
• Body Type: Hatchback
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Transmission: Automatic/ Manual
• Airbags: 6
• Key Features: Power steering, power windows front, anti-lock braking system, air conditioner, automatic climate control, fog lights – front, alloy wheels.
• Safety: ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ADAS, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts,  ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, 360 view camera, Speed Sensing Auto Door Lock, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock

5. Hyundai Creta | Starting ₹10.99 Lakh

Just a few months after its debut, the 2024 Hyundai Creta has already garnered over 80,000 reservations countrywide. The Hyundai Creta is one of the best-selling Hyundai vehicles in India after reaching the amazing milestone of selling over 10 lakh units since its launch in 2015.

Speaking of choices, you can also get one for the mode of transmission, manual or automatic.

Key Specifications:

• Mileage: 21.8 kmpl
• Engine Displacement: 1498cc
• Seating Capacity:  5 seats
• Body Type: SUV
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Transmission: Automatic/ Manual
• Airbags: 6
• Key Features: Power steering, ADAS, anti-lock braking system, air conditioner, 6 airbags, automatic climate control, front fog lights, alloy wheels, and a panoramic Sunroof.
• Safety: ABS with EBD, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Hill Assist, Traction Control, 360 view camera, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts, ADAS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts and Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock

6. Kia Seltos | Starting ₹10.89 Lakh

As part of their 2024 model year upgrade, Kia India has released a number of updates for the Seltos. A completely digital driver's display linked to a 10.25-inch infotainment system is a highlight of the redesigned Seltos. 

New amenities like a panoramic sunroof and dual-zone climate control have been introduced, as have toys like a Bose sound system, automated climate control, an air purifier, and ambient lighting.

Key Specifications:

• Mileage: 20.7 kmpl
• Engine Displacement: 1497cc
• Seating Capacity: 5 seats
• Body Type: SUV
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Transmission: Automatic/ Manual
• Airbags: 6
• Key Features: Power steering, power windows front, anti-lock braking system, air conditioner, Sunroof, automatic climate control, fog lights – front, alloy wheels, and a 360-degree camera.
• Safety: ABS with EBD, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts Hill Assist, Traction Control, 360 view camera, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts, ADAS and Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock

7. Mercedes-Benz GLC | Starting ₹75.90 Lakh

The Mercedes-Benz GLC has a sophisticated exterior and a sporty look. It also has plush, high-quality interiors and many cutting-edge amenities and technologies.

It is ideal for families with features like an infotainment system with a touchscreen compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Key Specifications:

⦁ Mileage: 19.4 kmpl

⦁ Engine Displacement: 1993 cc

⦁ Seating Capacity: 5 seats

⦁ Body Type: SUV

⦁ Fuel Type: Diesel

⦁ Transmission: Automatic/ Manual

⦁ Airbags: 7

⦁ Key Features: Power steering, anti-lock braking system, air conditioner, Panoramic sunroof, automatic climate control, alloy wheels, and a 360-degree camera.

⦁ Safety: ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill Assist, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts 360 View Camera, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, ADAS, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Hill Descent Control and Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock

8. Mahindra XUV 3XO | Starting ₹7.79 Lakh

A standout in the subcompact SUV sector, the Mahindra XUV 3XO is a revamped version of the successful XUV300. Its contemporary, high-quality interior is quite roomy and has a striking appearance that demands attention.

The Mahindra XUV3XO AX7 L Premium has a panoramic sunroof, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, a Harman Kardon sound system, and a 10.25-inch digital display for the driver.

Key Specifications:

⦁ Mileage: 18.2 kmpl

⦁ Engine Displacement: 1197 cc

⦁ Seating Capacity: 5 seats

⦁ Body Type: SUV

⦁ Fuel Type: Diesel

⦁ Transmission: Automatic/ Manual

⦁ Airbags: 6

⦁ Key Features: Power steering, LED taillights, a sunroof, anti-lock braking system, air conditioner, automatic climate control, LED projector headlamps, alloy wheels.

⦁ Safety: ABS with EBD, 360 View Camera, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, ADAS, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts and  Anti-Pinch Power Windows

9. Mahindra Bolero Neo Prime | Starting ₹9.98 Lakh

The SUV competes against the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, and Tata Nexon. The Bolero Neo boasts a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, power windows, cruise control, a height-adjustable driver seat, and Bluetooth, USB, and AUX connectivity.

Key Specifications:

• Mileage: 17.92 kmpl
• Ex-Showroom Price: 
• Engine Displacement: 1493cc
• Seating Capacity: 5 seats
• Body Type: SUV
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Transmission: Automatic/ Manual
• Airbags: 2
• Key Features: Power steering, power windows front, anti-lock braking system with EBD, air conditioner, fog lights – front, and alloy wheels.
• Safety: ABS with EBD, Engine Immobiliser, Seat Belt Warning and Anti-Theft Device

10. Mahindra Scorpio N | Starting ₹13.60 Lakh

Although the 175 PS diesel engine has an optional 4WD system, the SUV is normally driven through its rear wheels. The Scorpio N boasts an 8-inch touchscreen, an 8-speaker Sony 3D surround sound system, wireless charging, cruise control, an electric sunroof, dual-zone climate control, and built-in Alexa connectivity.

It has features such as hill-hold assist, ESC, and front and back vision cameras with parking sensors.

Key Specifications:

• Mileage: 16.23 kmpl
• Engine Displacement: 2198cc
• Seating Capacity: 7 seats
• Body Type: SUV
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Transmission: Automatic/ Manual
• Airbags: 6
• Key Features: Power steering, power windows front, anti-lock braking system, air conditioner, Sunroof, automatic climate control, fog lights – front, alloy wheels.
• Safety: ABS with EBD, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Hill Assist, 360 View Camera, Hill Descent Control, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, ADAS, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts, and Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock.

11. Hyundai Venue | Starting ₹7.53 Lakh

Hyundai Venue, one of the premier diesel hatchback cars in India, is available in 19 variants. It has 3 engine options and is also BS-VI compliant. Both manual and automatic transmissions are available. This SUV has a compact structure and a boot capacity of 350 litres.

There are seven available colours for you to choose from in this model.

Key Specifications:

• Mileage: 16.0 kmpl
• Engine Displacement: 998cc
• Seating Capacity:  5 seats
• Airbags: 6
• Body Type: Compact SUV
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Transmission: Automatic/ Manual
• Key Features: Power steering, power windows front, anti-lock braking system, air conditioner, driver airbag, passenger airbag, automatic climate control, fog lights – front, alloy wheels.
• Safety: ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ADAS, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts, Hill Assist, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, Speed Sensing Auto Door Lock, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock

12. Mahindra Thar | Starting ₹11.35 Lakh

Two body types are available for the off-road SUV: a fixed hard top and a convertible soft top. The AX model with gasoline power only comes with a convertible top; the other variants are available with both options. 

The Thar has impressive 650mm water-wading capabilities, a 41.8-degree approach angle, a 36.8-degree departure angle, and a 27-degree rampover angle. It rests on independent double wishbone suspension up front and multi-link coil springs at the back, all supported by a ladder frame chassis.

Key Specifications:

• Mileage: 15.2 kmpl 
• Engine Displacement: 2184cc
• Seating Capacity: 5 seats
• Body Type: SUV
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Transmission: Automatic/ Manual
• Airbags: 2
• Key Features: Power steering, power windows front, anti-lock braking system, air conditioner, automatic climate control, fog lights – front, alloy wheels.
• Safety: ABS with EBD, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Hill Assist, Hill Descent Control, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts and Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock

13. Mahindra Thar ROXX | Starting ₹12.99 Lakh

The Thar Roxx offers better features and value, a more cosy and family-friendly alternative to the standard Thar. For many, it represents the ideal compromise between a practical and comfortable family SUV and one that can do anything.

The Mahindra Thar Roxx is equipped with a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, a 9-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, automatic air conditioning with rear vents, and two 10.25-inch screens—one for the driver's display and the other for the touchscreen.

Key Specifications:

⦁ Mileage: 15.2 kmpl

⦁ Engine Displacement: 2184 cc

⦁ Seating Capacity: 5 seats

⦁ Body Type: SUV

⦁ Fuel Type: Diesel

⦁ Transmission: Automatic/ Manual

⦁ Airbags: 6

⦁ Key Features: Power steering, a panoramic sunroof, an anti-lock braking system, an air conditioner, automatic climate control, a blind-spot monitor, automatic headlights, cruise control, and alloy wheels.

⦁ Safety: ABS with EBD, Traction Control, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Hill Assist, 360 View Camera, ADAS, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts, Hill Descent Control, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts and Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock

14. Tata Curvv | Starting ₹9.99 Lakh

In India's competitive compact SUV market, the Tata Curvv stands out due to its attractive SUV-coupe design with a sloping roofline and a long list of advanced technologies.

Bharat NCAP gave the Tata Curvv a perfect score of 5 stars in their crash tests. Standard features include a panoramic sunroof, air purifier, ventilated front seats, multi-colour ambient lighting, a 6-way powered driver's seat, a wireless phone charger, and flush-type door handles.

Key Specifications:

⦁ Mileage: 15 kmpl

⦁ Engine Displacement: 1497 cc

⦁ Seating Capacity: 5 seats

⦁ Body Type: SUV

⦁ Fuel Type: Diesel

⦁ Transmission: Automatic/ Manual

⦁ Airbags: 6

⦁ Key Features: Power steering, a panoramic sunroof, an anti-lock braking system, an air conditioner, automatic climate control, a blind-spot monitor, and alloy wheels.

⦁ Safety: ABS with EBD, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, ADAS, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts, Hill Descent Control, Hill Assist, 360 View Camera and Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock

15. Kia Carnival | Starting ₹63.90 Lakh

The Kia Carnival is available with six or seven seats, has a lot of room and is quite comfortable for long rides. 

Additional features include an 11-inch heads-up display (HUD), 12.3-inch touchscreens, an electrically adjustable 12-way driver's seat (with lumbar support) and an 8-way passenger seat.

Key Specifications:

⦁ Mileage: 14.85 kmpl

⦁ Engine Displacement: 2151 cc

⦁ Seating Capacity: 7 seats

⦁ Body Type: SUV

⦁ Fuel Type: Diesel

⦁ Transmission: Automatic/ Manual

⦁ Airbags: 8

⦁ Key Features: Power steering, anti-lock braking system, air conditioner, Sunroof, automatic climate control, fog lights – front, alloy wheels, and a 360-degree camera.

⦁ Safety: ABS with EBD, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Hill Descent Control, Hill Assist, 360 View Camera, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, ADAS, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts, Electronic Stability Control (ESC)  and Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock

16. Mahindra Scorpio | Starting ₹13.62 Lakh

Mahindra Scorpio is a sturdy SUV that is ideal for families and even off-roading activities. It has a 2.2-litre diesel engine with 132 PS and 320 Nm.

Some features include a 9-inch touchscreen, cruise control, an adjustable driver's seat, and automatic air conditioning with vents in the second and third rows. 

Key Specifications:

⦁ Mileage: 15.2 kmpl

⦁ Engine Displacement: 2184 cc

⦁ Seating Capacity: 7,9 seats

⦁ Body Type: SUV

⦁ Fuel Type: Diesel

⦁ Transmission: Automatic/ Manual

⦁ Airbags: 2

⦁ Key Features: Power steering, cruise control, automatic headlights, anti-lock braking system, air conditioner, alloy wheels.

⦁ Safety: ABS with EBD, Speed Sensing Auto Door Lock, Seat Belt Warning and Anti-Theft Device

17. Toyota Land Cruiser 300 | Starting ₹2.10 Crore

The Land Cruiser takes pride in its construction and offers a roomy cabin with five comfortable seats and a huge boot. It features excellent riding quality, high levels of visibility, and a tonne of V6 diesel power. It excels in its class with 304 hp and 700 Nm of torque.

Some essential features include a 12.3-inch touchscreen system that floats in space, four-zone climate control, a powered tailboard and front seats that can be adjusted with power and have heating and ventilation capabilities. 

Key Specifications:

⦁ Mileage: 11 kmpl

⦁ Engine Displacement: 3346 cc

⦁ Seating Capacity: 5 seats

⦁ Body Type: SUV

⦁ Fuel Type: Diesel

⦁ Transmission: Automatic/ Manual

⦁ Airbags: 10

⦁ Key Features: Power steering, anti-lock braking system, air conditioner, automatic climate control, alloy wheels, and a 360-degree camera.

⦁ Safety: ABS with EBD, Traction Control, 360 View Camera, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Hill Descent Control, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, ADAS and Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock

18. Force Motors Gurkha | Starting ₹16.75 Lakh

The five-door Force Gurkha retains the same features as its three-door counterpart, including fog lights, vertically-stacked tail lights, and LED headlamps with integrated DRLs. It has a 2.6-litre four-cylinder diesel engine with increased power to 132 horsepower and torque to 320 Newton-meters.

The vehicle includes a digital instrument cluster, motorised windows, a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and manual air conditioning as standard equipment.

Key Specifications:

⦁ Mileage: 9.5 kmpl

⦁ Engine Displacement: 2596 cc

⦁ Seating Capacity: 4 seats

⦁ Body Type: SUV

⦁ Fuel Type: Diesel

⦁ Transmission: Automatic/ Manual

⦁ Airbags: 2

⦁ Key Features: Power steering, power windows front, anti-lock braking system, air conditioner, automatic climate control, alloy wheels.

⦁ Safety: ABS with EBD, Anti-Theft Device, Speed Sensing Auto Door Lock, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

19. Land Rover Range Rover Velar | Starting ₹87.90 Lakh

The Range Rover Velar is an impressively large SUV that is attractive from the outside and is built strong. Its diesel engine gives it outstanding performance.

Some features include a panoramic glass roof, four-zone climate control, a 12.3-inch digital driver's display, an 11.4-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a plethora of other goodies are standard on the Range Rover Velar.

Key Specifications:

⦁ Mileage: 9.2 kmpl

⦁ Engine Displacement: 1997 cc

⦁ Seating Capacity: 5 seats

⦁ Body Type: SUV

⦁ Fuel Type: Diesel

⦁ Transmission: Automatic/ Manual

⦁ Airbags: 6

⦁ Key Features: Power steering, anti-lock braking system, air conditioner, Panoramic glass roof, automatic climate control, alloy wheels, and a 360-degree camera.

⦁ Safety: ABS with EBD, Traction Control, 360 View Camera, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, ADAS, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Hill Descent Control, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill Assist, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts and Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock

20. Toyota Innova Crysta | Starting ₹19.99 Lakh

The new multi-purpose Innova Crysta boasts a powerful diesel engine with multiple advanced features. 

Among the features found in the Innova Crysta are an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, ambient lighting, automatic climate control with rear AC vents, and an 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat.

Key Specifications:

⦁ Mileage: 9 kmpl

⦁ Engine Displacement: 2393 cc

⦁ Seating Capacity: 7,8 seats

⦁ Body Type: MUV

⦁ Fuel Type: Diesel

⦁ Transmission: Automatic/ Manual

⦁ Airbags: 7

⦁ Key Features: Power steering, automatic climate control, automatic headlights, anti-lock braking system, air conditioner, alloy wheels.

⦁ Safety: ABS with EBD, Speed Sensing Auto Door Lock, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), vehicle stability control (VSC), ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, Hill Assist, Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock, Seat Belt Warning and Anti-Theft Device

Although the options are limited, there are still plenty of diesel car options in India. So whether you are looking for better mileage or more boot space, these diesel cars have them all, making them ideal purchases for car enthusiasts.

Also, obtaining at least third-party car insurance coverage is advisable to ensure financial security in case of any unforeseen catastrophe.