With the updated Bharat Stage 6 Phase 2 emissions norms, also known as Real Driving Emissions (RDE) norms, coming into effect last year many manufacturers have moved away from diesel engines due to the high cost of making them compliant. However, diesel engines remain a popular choice for their fuel efficiency, especially for long-distance drivers. Here is a list of the most affordable diesel cars and SUVs currently available in India:
Tata Altroz
The Tata Altroz is the most affordable option on this list and the only hatchback. It features a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder diesel engine producing 90hp and 200Nm of torque paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. With an ARAI-claimed fuel efficiency of 23.64kpl, it's a practical and stylish choice. The price range for the Tata Altroz is Rs 8.9 lakh to Rs 10.8 lakh.
Kia Sonet
There are three engine options available for the popular SUV, the Kia Sonet. The 1.5-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine, producing 116hp and 250Nm of torque, is available with both a 6-speed automatic and manual gearbox. It is known for its feature-rich cabin, though rear passenger space is limited. The Kia Sonet is priced between Rs 9.79 lakh and Rs 15.69 lakh.
Mahindra Bolero Neo
The Mahindra Bolero Neo offers a traditional SUV experience with a 100hp, 260Nm, 1.5-liter, 3-cylinder turbo-diesel engine and rear-wheel drive. For those wanting a no-nonsense car, this rugged and practical option is excellent. The Bolero Neo is priced from Rs 9.90 lakh to Rs 12.15 lakh.
Mahindra Bolero
The Mahindra Bolero is the bestselling car of India utility vehicles known for its strength and reliability. It is powered by a 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder turbo-diesel engine that produces 76hp and 210Nm of torque. The Bolero is priced between Rs 9.90 lakh and Rs 11.00 lakh.
Mahindra XUV300
The Mahindra XUV300 is another offering from Mahindra featuring a 117hp, 300Nm, 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-diesel engine. It is available with either a 6-speed manual or an AMT gearbox. The XUV300 is known for its safety being one of the two compact SUVs in the market with a 5-star Global NCAP rating. The price range for the XUV300 is Rs 9.92 lakh to Rs 14.76 lakh.
Hyundai Venue
The Hyundai Venue shares its architecture and powertrains with the Kia Sonet but has its distinctive styling. The 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-diesel engine produces 116hp and 250Nm of torque and is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. The Venue is priced between Rs 10.71 lakh and Rs 13.44 lakh.
Tata Nexon
The Tata Nexon is a popular choice in its segment with a 5-star Global NCAP and Bharat NCAP rating. It features a 115hp, 260Nm, 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed AMT gearbox. The Nexon is priced from Rs 11.10 lakh to Rs 15.60 lakh.
Mahindra Thar
The Mahindra Thar is the only true-blue off-roader on this list available with two diesel engines a 118hp, 300Nm, 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-diesel, and a 132hp, 300Nm, 2.2-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-diesel. The Thar is priced between Rs 11.25 lakh and Rs 17.20 lakh.
Kia Seltos
The Kia Seltos shares its 116hp, 250Nm, 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-diesel engine with the Hyundai Creta and offers two gearbox choices a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed AT. The Seltos is known for having a low sound level and a properly adjusted diesel engine. The price range for the Seltos is Rs 12.00 lakh to Rs 20.30 lakh.
Hyundai Creta
The Hyundai Creta along with the Kia Seltos, is one of the few midsize SUVs offering a diesel powertrain. The Creta uses the same 116hp, 250Nm 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder diesel engine as the Venue, Sonet, and Seltos with options for a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox. The Creta is priced between Rs 12.35 lakh and Rs 20.15 lakh.
Diesel cars and SUVs are still very popular in the Indian automotive market especially for people who value long-distance travel and fuel economy, despite the trend towards petrol and electric vehicles. From hatchbacks to off-roaders the alternatives above cover a wide range of market sectors, so there is a diesel car for every kind of shopper.