Over the past few years, Sports Utility Vehicles or SUVs have gained immense popularity in India. The reasons behind such popularity can be attributed to the increased seating capacity, spacious interior, and many others. 

Additionally, features like high ground clearance help cars absorb road shocks and save them from scraping underside.

When buying a car in India, securing car insurance is also crucial as it is mandatory by the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988. It provides financial protection against accidents, theft, and damage, safeguarding your investment. 

Having car insurance saves you from hefty traffic fines, license suspension, and even legal trouble.  

If the thought of buying an SUV has crossed your mind recently and you are in search of the best SUVs in India, this piece will be of great help. The list presented below is curated by considering the best-selling cars SUVs in India.

Following is the list of the top 25 SUV cars in India:

1. Tata Punch | Starting ₹6.20 Lakh

One of the best compact SUVs in India is Tata Punch, which offers 33 variants. It is powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine, which puts out a maximum power of 86.63 BHP at 6000 RPM and a maximum torque of 115 Nm at 32500 RPM. 

The SUV has a 7-inch touchscreen display with connected car technology, a 7-inch semi-digital instrument panel, dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, and front and rear parking sensors as safety features.

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 1199 cc  
• Mileage: 18.8 - 26.99 kmpl 
• Fuel type: Petrol/CNG
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic 
• Boot space: 366 litre 
• Seating capacity: 5 
• Airbags: 2
• Safety Features: ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, ISOFIX anchors, Anti-lock braking system

2. Maruti Suzuki FRONX | Starting ₹7.52 Lakh

Another incredible SUV model is the Maruti Suzuki FRONX, known for its powerful Turbo Boosterjet Engine that can accelerate from 0 to 60 within a couple of seconds. This car can generate up to 89 bhp at 6000 RPM and torque between 99 Nm and 148 Nm. 

Maruti Suzuki FRONX is available in different attractive colours like -  Splendid Silver, Nexa Blue, Arctic White, Earthen Brown, Grandeur Grey, Opulent Red, and so on. 

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 998 cc
• Mileage: 20 kmpl to 28.5 kmpl
• Fuel type: Petrol/CNG
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic
• Boot space:  308 litre
• Seating capacity: 5
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control System (TCS), hill hold control, overspeeding warning, parking sensors

3. Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor | Starting ₹7.74 Lakh

The Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor is another fabulous SUV model with a fuel-efficient engine paired with a robust automatic transmission, making it perfect for urban travel. The car comes with comfortable interiors and an array of special features that ensure complete safety while driving. 

Its sleek design and handling make it ideal for navigating busy streets. With a powerful engine, the Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor can generate a torque of 137 Nm. This car is available in the market in different colours - Groovy Orange, Rustic Brown, Sunny White, Iconic Grey, Spunky Blue, etc. 

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 1462 cc
• Mileage: 19 kmpl to 28 kmpl
• Fuel type: Petrol/CNG
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic
• Boot space: 328 litre
• Seating capacity: 5
• Airbags: 2
• Safety Features: Automatic headlamps, child safety lock, hill hold assist, ABS, overspeeding warning

4. Hyundai Venue | Starting ₹7.89 Lakh

With advanced technologies and unique features, Hyundai Venue has acquired the 5th position in the best SUV cars in India. The powerful engine of Hyundai Venue generates a maximum power of 118.41 BHP at 6000 RPM and a maximum torque of 172 Nm at 4500 RPM. This model has a ground clearance of 190 mm.  

This 5-seater model of Hyundai has an advanced control system that enables car owners to choose between three drive modes and three 2WD traction modes through a single jog dial.

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 998 - 1493 cc  
• Mileage: 24 kmpl 
• Fuel type: Petrol/Diesel
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic 
• Boot space: 350 litre  
• Seating capacity: 5 
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: Parking assist rear camera, ESC, brake assist system, ABS with EBD

5. Skoda Kylaq | Starting ₹7.89 Lakh

Czech automaker Skoda has entered the competitive subcompact SUV market in India with the Kylaq. Even though it's the shortest Skoda available in India and across the world, this car is jam-packed with safety, comfort, and feel-good features.

LED headlamps, LED DRLs, and power ORVMs are installed on the outside of the new Skoda Kylaq. Dual 8.0-inch digital displays are included in the top-tier model. Two USB-C ports are located on the front and two on the back of the vehicle, and the sunroof is powered by electricity.

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 999 cc  
• Mileage: 17.83kmpl 
• Fuel type: Petrol
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic 
• Boot space: 446 litre  
• Seating capacity: 5
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: ABS with EBD, ESC, Traction Control, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, Hill Assist, Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts, Anti-Pinch Power Windows(Driver’s window) and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

6. Mahindra XUV 3XO | Starting ₹7.99 Lakh

The Mahindra XUV 3XO is an excellent all-arounder. Its exterior and interior design, construction quality, space for the backseat, and features are well-balanced. This small SUV has top-notch features and craftsmanship.

The Mahindra XUV 3XO has been upgraded from the XUV300, which GlobalNCAP awarded a perfect score of five stars. Even those six feet tall will find enough room in the SUV.

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 1197 cc
• Mileage: 20.6 kmpl
• Fuel type: Petrol
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic
• Boot space:  364 litre
• Seating capacity: 5
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: a 360° camera,  5-star Global NCAP, Level 2 ADAS, ABS with EBD, hill hold assist, and a Harman Kardon audio system. 

7. Kia Sonet | Starting ₹7.79 Lakh

The list of top SUVs in India ends with Kia Sonet, one of the best compact SUVs in India. The car is available in six trims: HTE, HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+, and GTX+.  The car manufacturer has launched this range with an electric sunroof and 5-seater configurations. 

The maximum Power and torque generated by the Kia Sonet are 114.41 BHP at 4000 RPM and 250 Nm at 1500-2750 RPM, respectively. Enjoy the powerful performance of Kia Sonet, one of the cheapest SUVs in India at entry level.

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 998 - 1493 cc  
• Mileage: 18.2 kmpl 
• Fuel type: Diesel/Petrol
• Transmission: Automatic
• Boot space: 392 litre 
• Seating capacity: 5 
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: ABS with EBD, tyre press monitor, impact-sensing door locking, 360-degree camera

8. Tata Nexon | Starting ₹8.10 Lakh

In the list of top SUV cars in India, we have placed Tata Nexon in the 2nd position. Car owners can get Tata Nexon in five variants: XE, XM, XZ, XZ+, and XZA+. All these models have a five-seater layout. 

Its BS-VI-compliant petrol and diesel engine offers a powerful performance. In short, its Turbocharged engine generates a maximum torque of 260 Nm at 1500-2750 RPM and a maximum Power of 113.31 BHP at 3750 RPM.

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 1199 - 1497 cc  
• Mileage: 17.01 - 24.08 kmpl 
• Fuel type: Diesel/Petrol
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic 
• Boot space: 382 litre  
• Seating capacity: 5 
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: Tyre pressure monitor, blind-view mirror, ABS with EBD, anti-theft device 

9. Citroen Basalt | Starting ₹8.25 Lakh

The Citroen Basalt combines a roomy cabin with supportive seats, a useful trunk, and a damp ride to provide a sophisticated and powerful driving experience. Its commanding presence on the road and smooth engine performance make driving a breeze.

Electric headlights, taillights, and daytime running lights are just a few of the high-end amenities available on the Citroen Basalt. It has air conditioning that runs on its own, a 10.2-inch touchscreen, a 7-inch digital dashboard, and wireless charging for your phone.

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 1199 cc  
• Mileage: 18.7 kmpl 
• Fuel type: Petrol
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic 
• Boot space: 470 litre  
• Seating capacity: 5 
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: ABS with EBD, anti-theft device, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill Assist, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts and rear camera

10. Maruti Suzuki Brezza | Starting ₹8.34 Lakh

First on the list of best-selling SUV cars in India comes the Maruti Suzuki Brezza. This attractive and bold SUV is powered by a 1.5-litre K-Series petrol engine that generates 101.65 BHP of power and 136.8 Nm of torque. 

Maruti Suzuki Brezza offers a five-speed manual transmission and an automatic transmission with the help of Smart Hybrid Technology. 

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 1462 cc  
• Mileage: 17.38 to 25.51 kmpl 
• Fuel type: Petrol & CNG 
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic 
• Boot space: 328 litre
• Seating capacity: 5 
• Airbags: 6 
• Safety Features: Central locking, ABS, day & night IRVM, hill hold assist, ISOFIX anchors, pedestrian safety

11. Mahindra Bolero | Starting ₹9.79 Lakh

Mahindra Bolero is one of the top-selling SUVs in India that features a 1.5-litre diesel engine paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, which produces a maximum power of 75 BHP at 3600 RPM and 210Nm max torque at 1600-2200 RPM.

This range of Mahindra comes with a five-seater configuration, and its safety features include an anti-lock braking system (ABS), reverse parking, and 2 airbags.

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 1493 cc  
• Mileage: 16 kmpl 
• Fuel type: Diesel
• Transmission: Manual
• Boot space: 370 litre  
• Seating capacity: 7 
• Airbags: 2
• Safety Features: Anti-lock braking system, EBD, engine immobiliser, child safety locks on rear doors, overspeeding warning

12.Maruti Grand Vitara | Starting ₹10.99 Lakh

Maruti Grand Vitara, one of the best SUVs in India, is available in petrol and CNG engine options and manual or automatic transmission. 

It comes with two petrol engine options – a 1.5-litre mild-hybrid petrol engine and a 1.5-litre strong-hybrid petrol engine, which produce a maximum power of 103PS and 116PS, respectively.  

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 1462 - 1490 cc  
• Mileage: 19.38 - 27.97 kmpl 
• Fuel type: Petrol/CNG
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic 
• Boot space: 373 litre  
• Seating capacity: 5 
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: ABS, central locking, hill hold assist, ISOFIX anchors, tyre pressure monitor, reverse camera

13. Hyundai Creta | Starting ₹11.11 Lakh

Next on the list of SUV cars in India comes Hyundai Creta. The car manufacturer has introduced this range in 7 variants. Here, the base model is the Hyundai Creta E. On the other hand, the top model is the Hyundai Creta SX Opt Turbo. 

SUVs available under Creta feature both manual and automatic transmission and offer a maximum power of 138.08 BHP at 6000 RPM and a maximum torque of 242 Nm at 1500-3200 RPM. 

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 1493 -1497 cc  
• Mileage: 16.8 - 23 kmpl 
• Fuel type: Diesel/Petrol
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic 
• Boot space: 433 litre  
• Seating capacity: 5 
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: Tyre pressure monitoring system, electronic parking brake with auto hold, hill start assist control, rearview camera

14. Kia Seltos | Starting ₹11.13 Lakh

Another compact SUV on the list of top 10 SUV cars in India is the Kia Seltos. Kia has introduced its compact SUVs in three trims - Tech (HT) Line, GT Line and X-Line with 5 seating configurations. 

Tech (HT) Line is further available in five variants, namely HTE, HTK, HTK+, HTX, and HTX+, whereas the latter is available in two variants, GTX(O) and GTX+.

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 1482 - 1497 cc  
• Mileage: 17.0 - 20.7 kmpl 
• Fuel type: Diesel/Petrol
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic
• Boot space: 433 litre 
• Seating capacity: 7 
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: ABS, brake force assist system, ISOFIX child anchor, front parking sensors

15. Mahindra Thar | Starting ₹11.35 Lakh

Equipped with a rugged chassis and a robust engine, along with 4x4 capabilities for off-road driving, the Mahindra Thar is truly a fantastic SUV model. The car features many state-of-the-art facilities like touchscreen infotainment, cruise control, safety aids like ABS, airbags, and so on. 

With its sleek design and rigid build, it can easily travel through rough terrain while providing comfort for the riders. With three powerful engines, this off-roader SUV has the power to generate a torque between 300 Nm and 320 Nm. Mahindra Thar is available in different colours - Red Rage, Stealth Black, Desert Fury, Deep Grey, Everest White, etc. 

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 2184 cc
• Mileage: 13 kmpl to 15.2 kmpl
• Fuel type: Petrol/Diesel
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic
• Boot space: 600 litre
• Seating capacity: 4
• Airbags: 2
• Safety Features: ABS, traction control, central locking, child safety locks, EBD, anti-theft lock

16. Mahindra Thar Roxx | Starting ₹12.99 Lakh

The 5-door Mahindra Thar Roxx differs from the original in several ways, including the number of doors it has, the variety of premium equipment it offers, the way it looks, and the strength of its turbo-petrol and diesel engines.

Two 10.25-inch screens, a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, and a 9-speaker Harman Kardon sound system are standard features of the Mahindra Thar Roxx. Amenities such as cruise control, automated headlights, a wireless phone charger, etc., are also standard on the larger Thar Roxx.

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 1997-2184 cc
• Mileage: 15.2 kmpl
• Fuel type: Petrol/Diesel
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic
• Boot space: 447 litre
• Seating capacity: 5
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: ABS with EBD, Traction Control, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Anti-Pinch Power Windows(Driver’s window), 360-degree camera, Speed Sensing Auto Door Lock, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, Hill Descent Control, ADAS, Hill Assist, and Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock

17. Tata Nexon Fearless Plus PS Dark | Starting ₹13.79 Lakh

A choice of 1.5-litre diesel and 1.2-litre petrol engines are available for the Nexon Fearless Plus PS Dark edition. The Nexon gets 24.08 kmpl on diesel and 17.44 kmpl on petrol, making it an economical vehicle.

This 5-seater vehicle is the Tata Nexon Fearless Plus PS Dark Diesel. Among the many high-tech amenities found in the Nexon Fearless Plus PS Dark version are a touchscreen, automatic climate control, an adjustable outside rearview mirror, a multi-function steering wheel, and an engine start/stop button.

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 1497 cc
• Mileage: 24.08 kmpl
• Fuel type: Petrol/Diesel
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic
• Boot space: 382 litre
• Seating capacity: 5
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: ABS with EBD, Traction Control, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, Hill Descent Control, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock, 360-degree camera, Speed Sensing Auto Door Lock, Anti-Pinch Power Windows(Driver’s window), ADAS, and Hill Assist

18. Mahindra Scorpio N | Starting ₹13.85 Lakh

Looking for a 7-seater SUV car in India? Mahindra Scorpio N can be an ideal option. This 7-seater SUV is powered by a robust engine that produces a maximum torque of 400 Nm at 1750-2750 RPM and a maximum power of 172 BHP at 3500 RPM. 

Mahindra Scorpio N has advanced features like cruise control, auto headlamps with LED DRLs, auto AC, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and Bluetooth and AUX connectivity.

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 1997 - 2198 cc  
• Mileage: 19.38 - 27.97 kmpl 
• Fuel type: Petrol/CNG
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic 
• Boot space: 460 litre  
• Seating capacity: 7 
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: ISOFIX anchors, ABS with EBD, tyre pressure monitor, driver drowsiness detention

19. Mahindra XUV700 | Starting ₹13.99 Lakh

The Mahindra XUV700 is another extraordinary SUV model known for its futuristic design and leading-edge technology. It has been designed to offer superior performance and safety, making journeys quite comfortable. This car is an ideal choice for daily commutes or long road trips. 

The Mahindra XUV700 has dual screens, advanced driver assistance systems, and a powerful engine that can generate a torque of 360 Nm and 450 Nm. This car is available in different colours - Midnight Black, Napoli Black, Red Rage, Everest White, Dazzling Silver, Electric Blue, etc. 

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 2198 cc
• Mileage: 13 kmpl
• Fuel type: Petrol/Diesel
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic
• Boot space: 240 litre
• Seating capacity: 5/7
• Airbags: 7
• Safety Features: 360-degree camera, auto-dimming rearview mirror, ISOFIX anchors, ADAS

20. Tata Harrier | Starting ₹15.00 Lakh

Powered by a robust engine and a smooth automatic gearbox, the Tata Harrier is another exceptional SUV model that provides impressive performance and efficiency on the road. The car also offers a spacious cabin with advanced features like a panoramic sunroof, touchscreen infotainment, and a powerful sound system. 

This car has the potential to generate torque up to 350 Nm and is available in different colour choices - Sunlit Yellow, Pebble Grey, Coral Red, Oberon Black, Lunar White, Ash Grey, Seaweed Green, etc. 

Key Specifications: 

• Engine displacement: 1956 cc
• Mileage: 15 kmpl to 17 kmpl
• Fuel type: Diesel
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic
• Boot space: 425 to 445 litre
• Seating capacity: 5
• Airbags: 7
• Safety Features: Seatbelt reminder, rear parking sensor, advanced ESP, ADAS, overspeeding warning

21. Hyundai Creta N-Line | Starting ₹16.93 Lakh

Powered driven by a turbocharged engine, the Hyundai Creta N-Line delivers incredible performance on the road. It has sportier styling cues, including robust bumpers, a sleek grille, and exclusive alloy wheels. 

Inside, it offers premium materials, advanced infotainment, and cutting-edge safety features. For car enthusiasts looking for a sporty car that offers an exhilarating driving experience, the Hyundai Creta N-Line is the best choice. 

Key Specifications: 

• Engine displacement: 1482 cc
• Mileage: 18.2 kmpl
• Fuel type: Petrol
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic
• Boot space: 433 litre
• Seating capacity: 5
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: Electronic parking brake, hill start assist control, tyre pressure monitor, ESC

22. Toyota Fortuner | Starting ₹33.78 Lakh

The Toyota Fortuner provides a wide range of powerful engine options coupled with many cutting-edge features like a terrain management system, hill descent control, cruise control, wireless charging, etc. It takes pride in its spacious cabin, premium materials, and advanced technology. 

Whether travelling in city streets or navigating through rugged terrain, it provides immense comfort. Fortuner can generate a torque of 245 Nm at 4000 RPM with a powerful engine. 

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 2694 cc
• Mileage: 10 kmpl to 14.4 kmpl
• Fuel type: Petrol/Diesel
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic
• Boot space: 296 litre
• Seating capacity: 7
• Airbags: 7
• Safety Features: Traction control system, anti-lock braking system, child locks, ESC, hill assist control

23. Land Rover Defender | Starting ₹1.04 Crore

The New Defender comes in 90 (3-door) and 110 (5-door) trim levels. This makes it more inexpensive than expected and suitable for a variety of budgets. Land Rover also provides many personalisation packages to sweeten sales.

The Defender's cabin has a heads-up display and an 11.4-inch Pivi Pro touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The BS6 2-updated Land Rover Defender has three petrol and one diesel engine. The 3.0-litre oil burner produces 296bhp and 650Nm-peak torque.

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 4367 cc
• Mileage: 9.24 kmpl to 40 kmpl
• Fuel type: Petrol/Diesel & Hybrid
• Transmission: Automatic 
• Boot space: 397 litre
• Seating capacity: 5
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: Stability control, ABS, emergency braking, blind spot monitor, lane keep assist, rain-sensing wipers, 5-star safety EURO NCAP, and a SOS button 

24. Toyota Land Cruiser 300 | Starting ₹2.10 Crore

Equipped with a robust chassis, leading-edge off-road systems, and a range of powerful engines, the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 ensures matchless performance and seamless driving experience in every terrain. 

Known for its durability, this car can conquer the toughest environments seamlessly. With a powerful engine, this car can generate a torque of up to 700 Nm. This car has several colour choices - Precious White Pearl, Super White, Attitude Black, Dark Blue Mica, and Dark Red Mica Metallic.

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 4461 cc
• Mileage: 11.13 kmpl
• Fuel type: Diesel
• Transmission: Automatic
• Boot space: 621 litre
• Seating capacity: 5
• Airbags: 10
• Safety Features: Front & rear parking sensors, climate control system, vehicle stability control, anti-lock braking system

25. Land Rover Range Rover | Starting ₹2.36 Crore

Known for its luxury and performance, the Land Rover Range Rover is another incredible SUV model with advanced features like powerful engines, advanced terrain response systems, and well-equipped interiors. Its elegant design and safety features enhance the driving experience. With a robust engine, this car can generate a torque of up to 750 Nm. 

This car has 7 colours: Fuji White, Santorini Black, Belgravia Green, Hakuba Silver, Portofino Blue, Lantau Bronze, and so on. 

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 2997 cc
• Mileage: 8.77 kmpl to 13.16 kmpl
• Fuel type: Petrol/Diesel/Electric
• Transmission: Automatic 
• Boot space: 472 litre
• Seating capacity: 5
• Airbags: 10
• Safety Features: Stability control, ABS, emergency braking, blind spot monitor, lane keep assist, rain-sensing wipers

So, these are the top SUV car models in India. Also, it is advisable to protect your car with a third-party car insurance policy, as it is mandated by law. It will cover any damage or losses your vehicle could cause to a third-party person or property in any unforeseen mishap.