India's top 5 most economical diesel SUVs

As India moves towards a cleaner and more sustainable automotive future, the affordability of a diesel SUV has become a consideration for conscious buyers. The recent call by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas to phase out diesel passenger vehicles in Indian cities by 2027 has intensified the discussion on fuel-efficient alternatives. In this quest for eco-conscious driving, we are highlighting the top-5 most affordable diesel SUVs available in the Indian market.

India's top 5 most economical diesel SUVs

Mahindra Bolero/Bolero Neo
Leading the lineup are the Mahindra Bolero and Bolero Neo SUVs that offer strong performance at an attractive price. The Bolero SUV range consists of three different variants – B4, B6 and B6 (O). Meanwhile, the Mahindra Bolero Neo has four different variants – N4, N8, N10, and N10 (O), with the range-topping N10 (O). Both these SUVs draw power from a 1.5 liter turbo diesel engine, which generates 74.9 bhp in Bolero and 100 bhp in Bolero Neo along with 260Nm of torque.

Kia Sonet
Right behind it, is the Kia Sonet SUV which balances style and price. This versatile model lineup comprises 11 diesel variants, including an anniversary edition. It is powered by a powerful 1.5-litre turbo motor, which can be mated to a 6-speed manual or 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. The diesel powertrain impresses with its performance, producing 100 bhp and 240 Nm of torque with the manual transmission and 115 bhp and 250 Nm of torque with the automatic gearbox.

Mahindra XUV300
Mahindra XUV300 stands out in its segment with its contemporary design and attractive pricing. Offers 9 diesel options equipped with a 1.5 liter turbo diesel engine and both manual and AMT gearbox options. This engine generates an impressive 115 bhp and 300Nm of torque. This sub-compact SUV gets a number of features including leather upholstery, a rear armrest, machined alloy wheels, a sunroof, auto-dimming interior mirror, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system and dual-zone automatic AC.

Hyundai Venue
Hyundai's Venue is an attractive option with its attractive pricing and urban sophistication. Diesel variants are available in S Plus, SX, SX Dual-Tone, SX (O), and SX (O) Dual-Tone. Powering this subcompact SUV is a 1.5-litre turbo diesel engine that generates 115 bhp and 250Nm of torque. The Venue received a mid-life update in mid-2022, and is due for its next generation in 2025.

Tata Nexon
The last SUV on this list, the Tata Nexon, underlines Tata's commitment towards diesel efficiency. With 30 diesel variants including manual and AMT gearbox options, buyers have a ton of choices. All variants are powered by a 1.5-litre diesel engine that generates an impressive 115 bhp and 260Nm of torque. Nexon has recently undergone a significant update, bringing together a diverse model lineup with trims like Smart, Smart+, Smart+ S, Pure, Pure S, Creative, Creative+, Creative+ S, Fearless, Fearless S and Fearless+ S. Has been introduced. The '+' designation denotes option packages offering a series of additional features, while the 'S' signifies the inclusion of a sunroof. These options not only meet the needs of budget-conscious consumers, but also align with the changing trends of environmental responsibility.