Best SUVs Under 15 Lakh in India

The average Indian car consumer has always preferred to have large flashy cars. Our search for the best SUVs under 15 Lakh caters to this fundamental urge. These cars bring to the table large and comfortable cabins, good ground clearance and a high seating position. This enables the drivers to navigate those stretches that are full of potholes and the like, while they and the passengers have an excellent all round view. The engines are powerful, torquey and fuel efficient to boot. Desirability marries practicality in a form factor that appeals to the heart and mind of the consumer.

Hyundai Venue

The Hyundai Venue is a subcompact SUV boasting a stylish exterior, with a cascading front grille, sharp LED headlights, and a bold profile that gives it a contemporary and urban appeal. Inside, the cabin is well-appointed, featuring quality materials and user-friendly technology. Safety features, such as multiple airbags, ABS, and advanced driver assistance systems, contribute to the Venue’s reputation for safety and a good family car.

You get an auto clutch manual version which drives almost as smoothly as an automatic and is streets ahead of the normal manual transmissions. Another great advantage is the ability to purchase a DCT automatic, which is on the cutting edge of automatic transmissions. Our budget for the best SUV under 15 lakh allows us the elasticity to choose from all trims and variants available so you can purchase one that is best suited to your requirements.

Specifications

• Engine:  1.2 Ltr Petrol/ 1.0 Ltr turbo Petrol/ 1.5 Ltr diesel MT/ 1.0 Ltr turbo Petrol AT
• Transmission: 5 Speed Manual/ 6 Speed Manual/ 7 Speed Automatic
• Mileage: 17.27 Kmpl/ 18.07 Kmpl/ 22.7 Kmpl/ 17.99 Kmpl
• Airbags: 6
• Fuel Type: Petrol and Diesel
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Body Type: SUV

Key Features

• Reclining rear seats
• On-board voice commands

Mahindra XUV 300

The Mahindra XUV300 is a subcompact crossover SUV that’s part of the sub-4 metre SUV segment. It looks nice without being flashy, and it’s  roomier than some other small SUVs. The seats are comfy, and the cabin feels premium. What’s really impressive is that the XUV300 is super safe, getting a 5-star GNCAP rating for how well it protects adults in a crash and 4 stars for keeping kids safe. It is one of the best SUVs under 15 lakhs.

Feature wise, it comes with all manner of feel good aspects like a sunroof, leather upholstery and rear camera among other luxuries.

It’s a pleasure to drive in either its diesel or petrol avatars. The diesel engine is strong and smooth, and it’s perfect for city driving. It’s also good on twisty roads. Also, the steering is adjustable, making it fun to drive. All variants come in under 15 lakhs, so you and your family can go in for the configuration of your choice.

Specifications

• Engine: 1.2 Ltr turbo Petrol/ 1.2 Ltr turbo Petrol AT/ 1.5 Ltr diesel MT/ 1.5 Ltr diesel AT
• Transmission: 6 Speed MT/ 6 Speed AT
• Mileage: 16.82 Kmpl/ 17 Kmpl/ 20 Kmpl/ 17 Kmpl
• Airbags: 7
• Fuel Type: Diesel and Petrol
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Body Type: SUV

Key Features

• Central locking
• Power windows

Kia Sonet

The Kia Sonet is a subcompact crossover SUV that is known for: great style, smart design, and a good driving experience, but at a budget-friendly price. One striking feature is the large 10.25-inch touchscreen, borrowed from the Seltos, which is user-friendly and loaded with features like navigation and connected car capabilities. The Sonet handles well, with precise steering and comfortable ride quality, though it can get a bit noisy on rough roads.

The Kia Sonet offers class leading features, a wide range of engines, both petrol and diesel, in a variety of options delivering a balance of performance, great features and fuel efficiency. The stand out feature is Kia Connect which has 58 smart features in its advanced connectivity system which delivers a technologically driven experience. All trims are under 15 lakhs, so that you won’t need to extend your budget should you fancy a higher variant.

Kia Sonet Specifications

• Engine: 1.2 Ltr Petrol/ 1.0 Ltr turbo Petrol/ 1.0 Ltr turbo Petrol AT/ 1.5 Ltr turbo diesel MT/ 1.5 Ltr turbo diesel AT
• Transmission: 6 Speed MT/ 6 Speed AT
• Mileage: 24.10 Kmpl/ 19 Kmpl
• Airbags: 6
• Fuel Type: Diesel and Petrol
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Body Type: SUV

Kia Sonet Key Features

• Air Conditioner with Rear AC vents
• Tyre pressure monitoring

Tata Nexon

The Tata Nexon from Tata Motors is an affordable subcompact sub-4 metre crossover SUV. The Tata Nexon is one of the best SUVs under 15 Lakh that offers a modern design with sharp lines, a sleek profile, and a distinctive floating roof. However, the top end Fearless Plus S diesel automatic versions are above 15 lakh but that still leaves you with plenty of choices in your budget range.

Under the hood, it typically features a choice of petrol or diesel engines, delivering reliable performance and good fuel efficiency. The Nexon comes with various advanced features like a touchscreen panel for automatic climate control, ABS with EBD, and electronic stability control among other goodies. The  5-star GNCAP rating makes it a popular choice among family oriented buyers.

The interior is spacious and comfortable, making it an excellent choice for both city commutes and longer journeys. 

Tata Nexon Specifications

• Engine:  1.2 Ltr turbo Petrol DCT/ 1.2 Ltr turbo Petrol 5 MT/ 1.2 Ltr turbo Petrol AT/ 1.2 Ltr Petrol 6 MT / 1.5 Ltr turbo diesel MT/ 1.5 Ltr diesel AT
• Transmission: 6 Speed MT/ 6 Speed AT/ 7 Speed DCT
• Mileage: 23.23 Kmpl/ 24.08 Kmpl
• Airbags: 6
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Body Type: SUV

Tata Nexon Key Features

• 360° Camera.
• Front Seat Ventilation.

Maruti Suzuki Brezza

The Maruti Suzuki Brezza is a compact SUV that’s part of the sub-4 metre subcompact crossover SUV segment.

The Vitara Brezza comes with a peppy petrol engine, offering good fuel efficiency and a relaxed driving experience. It’s a smooth ride in the city and a good cruiser on the highway. The suspension effectively absorbs rough patches, while the high stance offers good all-round visibility.

It features a bold and stylish design with contemporary touches, including a chrome grille and projector headlamps. Inside, the cabin offers a comfortable and spacious environment with ample legroom and a well-designed dashboard.

Maruti has equipped the Brezza with modern features like a Heads Up display, 360 degree camera, and safety features like up to six airbags, ABS, and ISOFIX child seat mounts. An electric sunroof has also been added to the mix.

All the variants of the Maruti Suzuki Brezza come in under the 15 lakh mark allowing you to pick and choose the trim you desire according to requirements.

Specifications

• Engine: 1.5 Ltr mild hybrid Petrol AT/ 1.5 Ltr Petrol/ 1.5 Ltr CNG 
• Transmission: 5 Speed MT/ 6 Speed AT
• Mileage: 19.8 Kmpl/ 17.38 Kmpl/ 25.51 Km/kg
• Airbags: 6
• Fuel Type: Petrol and CNG
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Body Type: SUV

Key Features

• Electric Sunroof
• 360 degree camera

Mahindra Bolero Neo

The Mahindra Bolero Neo is a subcompact SUV that can seat up to seven people.It’s powered by a reliable diesel engine, known for its durability and fuel efficiency. It’s designed with a boxy and muscular exterior, featuring a bold front grille, distinctively styled headlamps, and pronounced wheel arches. The Bolero Neo’s premier variant, the N10(O), boasts an advanced feature known as Multi-Terrain Technology (MTT). Specifically designed for navigating challenging road conditions, MTT proves particularly handy when a wheel encounters obstacles like mud or potholes. In such situations, MTT intelligently directs additional power to the wheel that is stuck, allowing the driver to free it while ensuring that the free wheel remains stable using locking mechanisms. This innovative technology enhances the Bolero Neo’s off-road capabilities, providing drivers with a reliable tool to tackle adverse terrains effectively and ensuring a smooth and secure driving experience. It is one of the best SUVs under 15 lakhs.

All versions of the Mahindra Bolero Neo come in under 15 lakh.

Mahindra Bolero Neo Specifications

• Engine: 1.5 Ltr diesel 
• Transmission: 5 Speed Manual
• Mileage: 17.29 Kmpl
• Airbags: 2
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Seating Capacity: 7
• Body Type: SUV

Mahindra Bolero Neo Key Features

• Adjustable Front Passenger Seat
• Central locking

Hyundai Creta

The Hyundai Creta is a compact SUV that’s part of the mid-size SUV segment, a class  higher than the cars we have seen so far. The popular Hyundai Creta is a butch SUV, known for its blend of style, performance, and advanced features with muscular styling that stands out from the crowd. The 15 lakh bar we have set ourselves means that the automatic variants are out of our budget but the manual petrol and diesel mid range versions are available. We get functional and desirable features like rear parking cameras, cruise control, TPMS and cooled glovebox. Inside, the clean and straightforward dashboard design welcomes you with an elegant V-shaped flowing centre console. Safety features, such as 6 airbags, ABS, and electronic stability control, are standard.

The Creta offers a range of engine options, including petrol and diesel variants, each known for their power and fuel efficiency. 

Hyundai Creta Specifications

• Engine: 1.5 Ltr Petrol/ 1.5 Ltr  Petrol CVT/ 1.5 Ltr turbo diesel MT/ 1.5 Ltr turbo diesel TC 
• Transmission: 6 Speed MT/ 6 Speed AT
• Mileage: 21.35 Kmpl/ 18.46 Kmpl
• Airbags: 6
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Body Type: SUV

Hyundai Creta Key Features

• Ventilated front seats
• Panoramic Sunroof

Kia Seltos

The Kia Seltos is a crossover SUV that competes in the mid size SUV segment. Great design styling, flowing lines and wraparound headlights enhance the car’s visually striking appeal. Our price band of 15 lakh means that we are in the market for lower and mid range variants up to the HTK trims. However, we can still purchase an automatic in this price range. Features like the dual pane panoramic sunroof, rear camera with dynamic guidelines, rear AC vents, cruise control among others are not available. However, we do miss out on ADAS functionality.

You will still appreciate the roominess of  the premium cabin which has high quality fit and finish levels.The Seltos’ ride quality remains its strong suit, offering a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.

Kia Seltos Specifications

• Engine: 1.5 Ltr Petrol CVT/ 1.5 Ltr Petrol/ 1.5 Ltr turbo Petrol DCT/ 1.5 Ltr turbo Petrol/1.5 Ltr turbo diesel ACMT/ 1.5 Ltr turbo diesel TC
• Transmission: 6 Speed MT/ 6 Speed AT
• Mileage: 20.7 Kmpl/ 19.10 Kmpl
• Airbags: 6
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Seating Capacity: 7
• Body Type: SUV

Kia Seltos Key Features

• Panoramic Sunroof
• Cruise control

Mahindra Thar

The Mahindra Thar is a B-segment SUV with offroading DNA. Manufactured by Mahindra, the new Thar maintains its rugged appeal with a classic, boxy design. The Thar is built for adventure, equipped with powerful engine options, robust four-wheel-drive capabilities, and a solid suspension system that excels both on and off-road. Mahindra has launched petrol engines as an option as well which the previous vehicle did not have. The 15 lakh barrier we have adopted means that we can get the classic offroader option since automatic variants will not be available. The hardtop and convertible options too will be mostly out of our range. However, we don’t miss out on features like cruise control, TPMS, brake locking differential and 18 inch alloys with wide tyres among others.  You should know the manual requires more skill when driving off-road and will feel very engaging with a pure mechanical feel. Its interior is functional, ergonomic, and can be washed down with a hose. Yet it comes with modern features like a touchscreen infotainment system, climate control, and safety features such as dual airbags and ABS.

Specifications

• Engine:  2.0 Ltr turbo Petrol TC/ 2.0 Ltr turbo Petrol/ 1.5 Ltr turbo Diesel/ 2.2 Ltr turbo diesel MT/ 2.2 Ltr diesel AT
• Transmission: 6 Speed MT/ 6 Speed AT
• Mileage: 15.20 Kmpl for all variants
• Airbags: 2
• Fuel Type: Petrol and Diesel
• Seating Capacity: 4
• Body Type: SUV

Key Features

• Shift-on-the-fly 4×4 transfer case with low range
• Touchscreen with roll, pitch, steering angle, compass, G monitor displays

Maruti Suzuki Jimny

The Suzuki Jimny is a four-wheel drive off-road mini SUV with a retro modern design. It excels as an agile off-roader, thanks to its 4×4 capabilities, low-range transfer case, excellent ground clearance (210 mm), and impressive approach, departure, and break-over angles.

The Jimny’s compact size and lighter weight contribute to its off-road and urban prowess. The cabin can comfortably seat four adults and is well designed. The four door design enhances practicality and family-friendliness, differentiating it from two-door competitors. Additionally, the availability of a smooth torque-converter automatic transmission is a significant advantage. 

Furthermore, it doesn’t compromise on safety, boasting features such as multiple airbags, ESP, traction control, and ISOFIX mounts. It is one of the best SUVs under 15 lakhs.

We can easily get one in our budget of 15 Lakhs with all variants available. Recently, Maruti Suzuki has offered up to a couple of lakhs discount on the Jimny.

Maruti Suzuki Jimny Specifications

• Engine: 1.5 Ltr Petrol TC/ 1.5 Ltr Petrol 
• Transmission: 5 Speed MT/ 4 Speed AT
• Mileage: 16.39 Kmpl/ 16.94 Kmpl
• Airbags: 6
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Seating Capacity: 4
• Body Type: SUV

Maruti Suzuki Jimny Key Features

• Reverse parking sensors
• ABS and EBD

Mahindra Scorpio

The Mahindra Scorpio Classic is a mid size segment body-on-frame SUV.

It is designed for both on-road and off-road adventures  to appeal to those seeking a blend of style, performance, and practicality. 

Equipped with a powerful engine, the Scorpio Classic provides a commanding driving experience on both urban streets and rough terrains. Its spacious cabin offers comfortable seating and a range of features including a touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, and safety enhancements like dual airbags and ABS with EBD.

The high ground clearance, wide angle of sight and sturdiness gives an edge to a user who finds great utility in owning a vehicle of this calibre. However, our imposed budget cap means that we are able to go in for only the base S variant, which is pretty light on features. Therefore you could consider another car if a fully loaded feature list is necessary for you.

Specifications

• Engine: 2.2 Ltr turbo diesel MT
• Transmission: 6 Speed Manual
• Mileage: 16.46 Kmpl
• Airbags: 2
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Seating Capacity: 7
• Body Type: SUV

Key Features

• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
• Cruise Control

Force Gurkha

The Force Gurkha is a compact SUV produced by Force Motors. It’s a 4×4 car with all-terrain capabilities that has gained a reputation for its robust build and formidable off-roading capabilities..

Known for its distinctive, boxy design, the Gurkha exudes a robust and classic appeal which has only been enhanced by its new iteration. It comes with a powerful diesel engine sourced from Mercedes that delivers exceptional torque for tackling rough trails and steep inclines. Its four-wheel-drive system, solid suspension, and high ground clearance make it a formidable off-roader.

The interior of the Gurkha is bare bones but functional, with durable materials and basic features. It’s purpose-built for adventure, and its simplicity and toughness make it an attractive choice for enthusiasts who prioritise off-road performance over creature comforts. It is offered in only one trim and comes in at the extreme end of our 15 lakh scale.

Force Gurkha Specifications

• Engine: 2.6 Ltr turbo diesel MT
• Transmission: 5 Speed Manual
• Mileage: 17 Kmpl
• Airbags: 2
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Seating Capacity: 4
• Body Type: SUV

Force Gurkha Key Features

• Manual locking differentials
• Stock Snorkel

Summary

The cars outlined above are a good mix of versatility, practicality, and dare we say it, affordability. Muscular aggressive looks, a commanding road presence and a wide range of features on offer only contribute to their desirability. Whether you have a large family, need to haul a lot of luggage or spend a lot of time on the highways, these cars will serve you well. Urban or rural environments, the best SUV under 15 lakh will feel right at home. So ahead, drive one home today secure in the knowledge that you have spent your money well.