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Top 10 SUV Cars Under 20 Lakh in India
In the highly competitive Indian automotive market, SUV cars below 20 lakhs are the ideal blend of affordability, style, and utility. These vehicles provide modern features and rugged designs for budget buyers.
However, before buying your SUV, it is vital to purchase car insurance to protect it from traffic fines, theft, and other damages.
Let's read ahead to gather additional information regarding the best SUV cars in India 2025!
List of the Best SUV Cars under 20 lakh in India
Disclaimer: The prices mentioned are general estimates for Delhi and may vary across cities.
Top 10 SUV Cars Under 20 Lakh in 2025
SUVs under 20 lakhs have emerged as the top choice for Indian buyers seeking an ideal balance of style, performance, and affordability. The vehicles offer strong features, rugged design, and great value.
1. Tata Nexon | Starting ₹8 Lakh
The Tata Nexon redefines the way you choose your compact SUV. A robust engine and feature-packed infotainment system make it an ideal steed to trot around town or tackle the highway.
Apart from that, Nexon offers a spacious cabin with loads of head and leg room and luggage space. Its robust engine delivers strong performance on city streets or highway stretches. The infotainment system is feature-rich, making it a tech-savvy entertainment mesh on every journey.
Key Specifications:
⦁ Engine Displacement: 1199 cc, 1497 cc
⦁ Mileage: 16-22 kmpl
⦁ Max Power: 88.2bhp
⦁ Max Torque: 170- 260 Nm
⦁ Transmission: 5 & 6-speed manual, 6 & 7 speed automatic
⦁ Seating capacity: 5
2. Renault Duster | Starting ₹9.86 Lakh
Renault Duster is a compact sport utility vehicle produced by Renault and the Dacia subsidiary in Romania. It has a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and a 6-speaker Arkamys audio system.
In contrast to other SUVs in the Indian market, the Duster is a hardcore vehicle that can easily tear up any terrain. It has a high ground clearance of 205mm and high departure and approach angles, which makes the SUV very noticeable.
Key Specifications:
⦁ Engine Displacement: 1461 cc, 1498 cc, 1598 cc
⦁ Mileage: 13.9 to 19.87 kmpl
⦁ Max Power: 153.86 bhp
⦁ Max Torque: 142 to 254 Nm
⦁ Transmission: 5-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, 6-speed manual
⦁ Seating capacity: 5
3. Kia Seltos | Starting ₹10.90 Lakh
The Kia Seltos is an SUV that turns heads. Its decadent style and advanced technology make it look great. This SUV has luxurious interiors with high-quality seating materials, smart features, ample legroom, and bold design trims.
A Smart Power Liftgate powers it for convenient loading and unloading. Kia Seltos is one of the 102 SUVs recommended by Consumer Reports for its safety, reliability, and overall performance.
Key Specifications:
⦁ Engine Displacement: 1482 cc - 1497 cc
⦁ Mileage: 17-20.7 kmpl
⦁ Max Power: 113.42 - 157.81 bhp
⦁ Max Torque: 253 Nm - 144 Nm
⦁ Transmission: 6&7-speed automatic, 6-speed manual, CVT
⦁ Seating capacity: 5
4. Hyundai Creta | Starting ₹10.99 Lakh
Creta has been a popular choice among customers for some time now. It still wins people over with its comfortable driving style and modern design. In addition, this SUV comes from Hyundai, which has a strong after-sales service.
The SUV cargo area is popular for both its capacity and comfort. The prices vary depending on the car engine option (petrol, diesel, or turbo petrol) you eventually pick up.
Key Specifications:
⦁ Engine Displacement: 1493 cc
⦁ Mileage: 16-19 kmpl
⦁ Max Power: 85 kW (116 PS)
⦁ Max Torque: 250 Nm
⦁ Transmission: 6-speed manual & 6-speed automatic
⦁ Seating capacity: 5
5. Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara | Starting ₹ 10.99 Lakh
The Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara is built on the backs of the popular domestic brand Grand Vitara, which combines classic SUV styling with modern features and better fuel economy.
The Grand Vitara reflects Maruti Suzuki’s commitment to feature unique external styling, a complete range with uncompromised interiors, best-in-class features, and class-leading fuel economy.
Key Specifications:
⦁ Engine Displacement: 1490 cc petrol/hybrid
⦁ Mileage: 19.38-27.97 kmpl
⦁ Max Power: 93/103 bhp
⦁ Max Torque: 122/136 Nm
⦁ Transmission: 4-speed, 5-speed manual
⦁ Seating capacity: 5
6. Volkswagen Taigun | Starting ₹11.70 Lakh
Volkswagen Taigun is the safest SUV in India, with a GNCAP star rating of 5 stars for adult and child occupants. It is designed to be a high-performing, comfortable, and stylish car.
Though compact, the Taigun has a reasonably roomy cabin and an even more powerful engine for an exhilarating driving experience.
Key Specifications:
⦁ Engine Displacement: 999 cc, 1498 cc
⦁ Mileage: 17.23 to 19.87 kmpl
⦁ Max Power: 147.94bhp
⦁ Max Torque: 250 Nm
⦁ Transmission: 6 & 7 speed automatic, 6-speed manual
⦁ Seating capacity: 5
7. Mahindra Scorpio N | Starting ₹13.62 lakh
The Scorpio N is known to be the state-of-the-art, sizeable three-row SUV that reeks of solidity, has ample space in the first two rows, has a wide array of features, and comes across as a very dominant-looking vehicle. Its suspension system provides an absorbent ride, making it suitable for travelling and driving long distances in the city.
The SUV has 4XPLOR DV, a terrain management technology that offers appropriate traction for snow, sand and mud to overcome the most challenging terrains. The Mahindra Scorpio N certainly has a presence in the premium SUV class due to its daring styling, advanced cockpit technology, and easy-to-operate infotainment units with built-in GPS navigation.
Key Specifications:
⦁ Engine Displacement: 2184 cc
⦁ Mileage: 15.94 kmpl
⦁ Max Power: 128.6-149.14 kW
⦁ Max Torque: 370 Nm
⦁ Transmission: 6speed automatic, 6-speed manual
⦁ Seating capacity: 7
8. MG Hector | Starting ₹13.99 Lakh
MG Hector is a feature-loaded SUV from the MG Hector brand and has garnered immense praise for its overall performance and intelligent features. Its plush interior allows for a smooth ride.
The SUV boasts a luxurious touchscreen infotainment system with connectivity options, ADAS into practice and a muscular engine lineup delivering seamless performance, providing a comfortable and joyful drive. It's a cabin with a dual-pane panoramic sunroof that transforms the space, offering a more premium touch.
Key Specifications:
⦁ Engine Displacement: 1451 cc, 1956 cc
⦁ Mileage: 14.5-15.5 kmpl
⦁ Max Power: 167.68bhp
⦁ Max Torque: 350Nm
⦁ Transmission: 6-speed manual, CVT
⦁ Seating capacity: 5
9. Mahindra XUV700 |Starting ₹14.59 Lakh
The Mahindra XUV700 reimagines premium mobility with some exciting features. This SUV combines aggressive styling with state-of-the-art technology for an unparalleled driving experience.
With its striking presence and sophisticated engineering, this modern SUV is desirable for discerning Indian consumers.
Key Specifications:
⦁ Engine Displacement: 2000 cc, 2200 cc
⦁ Mileage: 13-17 kmpl
⦁ Max Power: 182 bhp
⦁ Max Torque: 380 Nm
⦁ Transmission: 6-speed automatic, 7-speed manual
⦁ Seating capacity: 5-7
10. Tata Safari | Starting ₹15.49 lakh
The Tata Safari 2025 is a rugged and muscular SUV for the adventurous heart. It is best for people who want a comfortable and spacious as well as a powerful vehicle for off-road and highway driving.
The SUV is a 7-seater SUV with a 4-cylinder engine and a 1956 cc turbo diesel that can produce an output of 167.67 bhp and a torque rating of 350 Nm. Some features worth mentioning are Panoramic Sun Roof ADAS Adaptive Cruise Control 360 Degree View Camera Ventilated Seats 12.3 inches Infotainment System, Wireless Android Auto and Wireless Charging.
Key Specifications:
⦁ Engine Displacement: 1956 cc
⦁ Mileage: 14.08-16.3 kmpl
⦁ Max Power: 170 bhp
⦁ Max Torque: 350Nm
⦁ Transmission: 6-speed manual
⦁ Seating capacity: 6/7
FAQs about Best SUV Cars Under 20 Lakh
What are the best SUVs available under 20 lakhs in India?
The top 10 SUVs under 20 Lakhs in India are the Maruti Grand Vitara, Mahindra Scorpio, Renault Duster, Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Kia Seltos, Mahindra XUV700, Kia Seltos and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder.
Which SUVs under 20 lakhs are suitable for off-roading?
Some of the best off-road SUVs under 20 Lakhs are the Mahindra Thar, Tata Harrier, Force Gurkha, Tata Safari, Jeep Compass, Maruti Suzuki Jimmy, and Mahindra Scorpio N.
Are hybrid SUVs under 20 lakhs a good investment?
Owning Hybrid SUVs under 20 lakhs could be a smart investment, especially if low fuel consumption and minimising your eco-footprint are what one is after since they are compared to conventional petrol SUVs, giving substantial fuel economy whilst still being affordable.
What safety features should I look for in an SUV under 20 lakhs?
While searching for a safe SUV under 20 lakhs, look for high Global NCAP safety standard ratings, curtain airbags, ESC, ABS with EBD, Hill Hold Control, parking sensors, and rearview cameras. Also, additional driver’s assistance systems such as blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and autonomous emergency braking should be looked for.
Which SUVs under 20 lakhs offer the best mileage?
Some SUVs under 20 lakhs with good mileage include the Ford Ecosport, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder.
How do I choose between petrol, diesel, or hybrid SUVs under 20 lakhs?
When choosing a petrol, diesel, or hybrid SUV under the 20 lakh price bracket, consider your driving style and habits, the distance you usually travel in a day, the fuel mileage, the price of the model, and also whether or not there are charging stations in your vicinity.
Which SUVs under 20 lakhs are best for family use?
Some SUVs under 20 Lakhs that one can consider for family use are Tata Safari, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Kia Seltos, Mahindra Scorpio, Mahindra Thar, Hyundai Creta, and Kia Seltos. These SUVs offer bigger seating capacity and enhanced security features that are perfect for family use.
Are there any 7-seater SUVs under 20 lakhs?
Indeed, several 7-seater SUVs are available in the Indian market priced at less than 20 lakh, including the Mahindra XUV700, Mahindra Scorpio N, Toyota Innova Crysta, Tata Safari, and Mahindra Scorpio Classic.
How do SUVs under 20 lakhs compare in terms of maintenance costs?
When it comes to maintenance costs for SUVs under 20 lakh, which are on par with other models, it must be said that Maruti Suzuki offers the lowest average due to the ease of sourcing the parts. However, Hyundai Creta, Tata Nexon, and Mahindra XUV300 can also average around the same figure, but the cost varies for different models and engine types.
What is the resale value of SUVs in the under 20-lakh price range?
In India, in the 20 lakh price category, most SUVs command a good resale value. Models such as the Hyundai Creta, Mahindra Scorpio, Tata Nexon, and Kia Sonet perform somewhat ‘better’ than popular models. After a few years of ownership, they can command about 50-60% of their selling price in the used car market, subject to overall condition and usage.