The Ultimate Guide to 19 Sensational SUVs Under ₹10 Lakh in India (May 2025)

The Ultimate Guide to 19 Sensational SUVs Under ₹10 Lakh in India (May 2025)

Finding the perfect SUV that combines style, performance, safety, and affordability can be an exciting journey. If you’re in the Indian market looking for a capable companion that doesn’t break the bank (specifically under ₹10 lakh), you’re in the right place!

This comprehensive guide, based on reviews and reports as of May 2025, delves into 19 popular and upcoming SUVs. We’ll break down their key features, real-world and ARAI mileage figures, and a blend of expert and user opinions to help you navigate your options and drive home with confidence.

Also Read: Top 10 Best SUVs Under ₹10 Lakh in India (2025)

Let’s explore what these contenders have to offer:

1. Tata Punch

The Tata Punch has made a significant mark with its bold design and strong safety credentials.

AspectDetails
Key Features• 5-star Global NCAP safety rating
• Two driving modes
• Idle start/stop feature
• Wide body cladding
• 90° door opening
• Spacious cabin & large boot space
• Decent ground clearance
Higher variants include: Touchscreen infotainment, automatic climate control, connected car technology
MileagePetrol (User Reviews): City: 12-13 km/l   
Highway: 14-15 km/l  Highway (Eco, careful driving): 20+ km/l
CNG: Good reported mileage
Expert/User OpinionWhat’s Liked: Solid build quality & safety
• Comfortable ride
• Commanding driving position
• Muscular looks, “mini Harrier” appeal
• Great value for money
Points to Consider: • Petrol engine can feel underpowered at times
• Some cabin noise and vibrations
Safety Rating5-star Global NCAP
SUVs Under ₹10 Lakh in India (May 2025)

2. Tata Nexon

A consistent bestseller, the Tata Nexon is lauded for its robust safety and multiple powertrain choices.

AspectDetails
Key Features• 5-star Global NCAP safety rating
• Powertrain Options: Petrol, Diesel, CNG
• Transmission Options: Manual, AMT, DCA
• Touchscreen infotainment system
• Connected car technology
• Sunroof (available in higher variants)
MileagePetrol (User Reviews): City: Around 12-13 km/l   
Highway: Around 17-18 km/l
Diesel: Generally better mileage
CNG: Higher fuel efficiency
ARAI figures: Vary by powertrain/transmission
Expert/User OpinionWhat’s Liked:• Excellent safety record
• Stylish design
• Feature-rich & spacious cabin
• Comfortable ride & good performance
Points to Consider:• Potential panel gaps reported
• Service experience can vary by location
Safety Rating5-star Global NCAP
SUVs Under ₹10 Lakh in India (May 2025)

3. Maruti Suzuki Fronx

The Fronx brings a coupe-like SUV design to Maruti’s Nexa lineup, offering style and efficiency.

AspectDetails
Key Features• Engine Options: 1.2L NA Petrol, 1.0L Boosterjet Turbo-Petrol
• Transmission Options: Manual, AMT, AT (sold via Nexa)
Features may include: 9-inch touchscreen, Head-Up Display (HUD), 360-degree camera, up to 6 airbags (variant dependent)
MileagePetrol (User Reviews, pre-first service): City: 12-14 km/l 
Highway: 15-19 km/l
CNG Variants: Excellent mileage reported (28+ km/kg)
ARAI figures: Generally good
Expert/User OpinionWhat’s Liked:• Stylish & unique design, good road presence
• Refined engines, comfortable ride
• Maruti’s service network & resale value
Points to Consider:• Some features missing in lower/mid variants
• AMT can lag during overtaking
• Interior feels dark to some
Safety RatingNot specified (some variants includes 6 airbags)
SUVs Under ₹10 Lakh in India (May 2025)

4. Maruti Suzuki Brezza

A household name, the Brezza is known for its reliable performance and family-friendly appeal.

AspectDetails
Key Features• Engine: 1.5L Petrol (CNG option available)
• Transmission Options: Manual, AT
Features include: Touchscreen, push-button start, sunroof, 360-degree camera, HUD, up to 6 airbags (variant dependent)
MileagePetrol AT (User Reviews): Around 14.6 km/l
Petrol Manual (User Reviews, highway): Around 18 km/l
CNG Variants: ~20km/kg
ARAI figures: 17.38 km/l (manual), 19.80 kmpl(TC), CNG Manual: 25.51 km/kg
Expert/User OpinionWhat’s Liked:• Strong & smooth performance, comfortable drive
• Good looks, relatively low maintenance
• Airy cabin, ample storage, Maruti service network
Points to Consider:• Ride quality at lower speeds
• Engine may lack punch for some
• AT variants can be costly
• Boot space on the smaller side
Safety Rating4 Star Bharat NCAP
SUVs Under ₹10 Lakh in India (May 2025)

5. Mahindra XUV 3XO

The updated Mahindra XUV 3XO comes packed with features and strong safety credentials.

AspectDetails
Key Features• Engine Options: 1.2L turbo-petrol, 1.2L TGDi turbo-petrol, 1.5L diesel
• Transmission Options: Manual, AMT, TC
• Panoramic sunroof, Level 2 ADAS suite
• Dual-zone climate control, Two 10.25-inch screens
• Rear AC vents, 6 airbags as standard
MileageARAI figures: 17.96 to 21.2 km/l (engine/transmission dependent)
User-Reported Mileage: Petrol: 13.86 kmpl (city) to 18.29 kmpl (highway).
Diesel: City (14-17km/l) Highway (17-20km/l).
Expert/User OpinionWhat’s Liked:• Sorted ride, engaging drive, ample space
• Modern features (ADAS, panoramic sunroof)
• Auto options across engines, strong diesel pulling power
Points to Consider:• Exterior design can be polarizing
• Light-colored interior may be hard to maintain
• Boot space perceived as limited by some
Safety Rating5-star Bharat NCAP
SUVs Under ₹10 Lakh in India (May 2025)

Also Read:

  1. Best 5 Hatchbacks Under ₹10 Lakhs in India for 2025
  2. 10 Must-Have Cars Under ₹10 Lakh in India (2025): The Ultimate Guide

6. Hyundai Venue

The Hyundai Venue is a popular compact SUV known for its refined engines and extensive feature list.

AspectDetails
Key Features• Engine Options: 1.2L Petrol, 1.0L Turbo-Petrol, 1.5L Diesel
• Transmission Options: Manual, iMT, DCT, AT
• Connected car technology, Touchscreen infotainment
• Sunroof (available in higher variants)
MileageUser Reviews (engine/driving style dependent): City: Around 10-14 km/l
Highway: Around 16-18 km/l
ARAI figures: Competitive within segment
Expert/User OpinionWhat’s Liked:• Feature-packed, comfortable ride
• Good driving dynamics, refined engines
Points to Consider:• Rear middle seat less comfortable for long journeys
• Ventilated seats missing in some variants
• No wireless Android Auto on top variant (seen as an omission)
Safety Rating4 Star for Adults and 3 Star for Child by Global NCAP
SUVs Under ₹10 Lakh in India (May 2025)

7. Renault Kiger

The Kiger offers a sporty design and a value-for-money proposition in the competitive compact SUV space.

AspectDetails
Key Features• Engine Options: 1.0L NA Petrol, 1.0L Turbocharged Petrol
• Transmission Options: Manual, AMT, CVT
• Touchscreen infotainment, LED headlamps, Multiple airbags
MileageARAI Range: 18.24 to 20.5 km/l
User Reviews (City): Around 10.5-11.5 km/l (can drop in summer)
User Reviews (Highway): Decent
Expert/User OpinionWhat’s Liked:• Sporty design, comfortable ride (especially CVT)
• Value for money, good turbo engine performance
Points to Consider:• Minor long-term niggles (e.g., trip meter resetting)
• Slight vibrations at lower speeds
• Light steering lacks feedback
Safety Rating4-star Global NCAP
SUVs Under ₹10 Lakh in India (May 2025)

8. Nissan Magnite

With its aggressive styling and feature-rich offerings, the Magnite stands out as a strong value contender.

AspectDetails
Key Features• Engine Options: 1.0L NA Petrol, 1.0L Turbocharged Petrol
• Transmission Options: Manual, CVT
• Touchscreen infotainment, 360-degree camera (higher variants), Multiple airbags
MileageARAI Range: 19.35 to 20.0 km/l
User Reviews (varied): Bumper-to-bumper traffic: Around 8-10 km/l
Highway (Turbo-CVT): 18+ km/l
Expert/User OpinionWhat’s Liked:• Aggressive styling, value for money
• Feature-rich for its price, fun-to-drive turbo-CVT
• Comfortable ride, good road presence
Points to Consider:• Vibrations at lower speeds reported
• Some users desire a CNG version
Safety Rating4-star Global NCAP
SUVs Under ₹10 Lakh in India (May 2025)

9. Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor

Sharing its underpinnings with the Fronx, the Taisor brings Toyota’s reliability to the stylish SUV-coupe form.

AspectDetails
Key Features• Shares mechanicals/features with Maruti Fronx
• Engines: 1.2L Petrol, 1.0L Turbo-Petrol (CNG available)
• Transmissions: Manual, AT
Features include: Touchscreen, HUD, 360-degree camera (higher variants)
MileageARAI: Similar to Fronx, competitive figures
CNG (User Reviews): Excellent, around 29 km/kg
Expert/User OpinionWhat’s Liked:• Reliable, fuel-efficient (especially CNG), Toyota backing
• Stylish looks, comfortable interior, good driving experience
• Value for money
Points to Consider:• Some feel certain features missing at specific price points
Safety RatingNot specified (likely similar to Fronx)
SUVs Under ₹10 Lakh in India (May 2025)

10. Hyundai Exter

Hyundai’s entry into the micro-SUV segment, the Exter, comes packed with features and a focus on city driving.

AspectDetails
Key Features• Engine: 1.2L Petrol (CNG option available)
• Transmissions: Manual, AMT
Features include: Sunroof, dashcam, digital cluster, up to 6 airbags, ESC, wireless charging (higher variants)
MileageARAI: 19.2-19.4 km/l (Petrol), 27.1 km/kg (CNG)
Long-term Review (City, heavy traffic): Around 9 km/l
Expert/User OpinionWhat’s Liked:• Compact size, easy city driving
• Comfortable & spacious interior, generous features
• Very effective AC
Points to Consider:• Styling can be polarizing
• Highway performance & boot space need more testing by reviewers
• Lack of center armrest (minor)
Safety RatingNot Available (has up to 6 airbags and ESC)

11. Kia Sonet

The Kia Sonet is known for its striking design, premium interior, and a wide array of engine and transmission options.

AspectDetails
Key Features• Engines: 1.2L Petrol, 1.0L Turbo-Petrol, 1.5L Diesel
• Transmissions: Manual, iMT, DCT, AT
Features include: Touchscreen, connected car tech, sunroof, ventilated seats, Bose sound system, up to 6 airbags, ADAS (higher variants)
MileageARAI: Varies by powertrain/transmission
User Reviews (Petrol): ~11-13 km/l (city), better on highways
User Reviews (Diesel): ~18-19 km/l (city), 24+ km/l (highway, careful driving)
Expert/User OpinionWhat’s Liked:• Stylish design, premium & feature-rich interior
• Refined engines, ADAS in higher variants
• Well-regarded diesel performance
Points to Consider:• Rear seat best for two adults
• Ride can be bouncy at high speeds
• Slight DCT delay in reverse mentioned
Safety RatingNot Available (has up to 6 airbags and ADAS)

12. Mahindra Bolero

A legend in the Indian automotive scene, the Bolero is synonymous with ruggedness and reliability.

AspectDetails
Key Features• Engine: 1.5L mHawk75 Diesel
• Transmission: Manual
• Rugged build, 7-seater capacity
• Basic features: Digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth music system
MileageARAI: Around 16 km/l
Expert/User OpinionWhat’s Liked:• Ruggedness, reliability, practicality (especially rural/semi-urban)
• Durability, low maintenance costs
• No-nonsense utility vehicle
Points to Consider:• Lacks modern features & advanced safety
• Outdated interior design/materials
Safety RatingNot specified in source

13. Mahindra Bolero Neo

The Bolero Neo offers the traditional Bolero toughness with some modern touches and a more SUV-like appeal.

AspectDetails
Key Features• Engine: 1.5L mHawk100 Diesel
• Transmission: Manual, Rear-wheel drive
• Ladder-on-frame chassis, 7-seater (jump seats in 3rd row)
Features include: Touchscreen infotainment (higher variants)
MileageUser Reviews: Ghats: 10-12 km/l
Cities: 14-16 km/l
Highways: ~18 km/l (up to 20 km/l possible)
ARAI: Around 17.29 km/l
Expert/User OpinionWhat’s Liked:• Proper sub-4m SUV feel (body-on-frame, RWD)
• Good road presence, strong performance
• Comfortable seating, spacious cabin, underrated & capable
Points to Consider:• Average interior fit/finish
• Vibrations in gear handle, some engine noise in cabin
Safety Rating1 Star by Global NCAP

14. Citroen C3

The Citroen C3 brings French flair with a focus on comfort and a unique design.

AspectDetails
Key Features• Engines: 1.2L NA Petrol, 1.2L Turbocharged Petrol, CNG
• Transmission: Manual, Auto
• Touchscreen infotainment, High ground clearance
• Comfortable ride
MileageUser Reviews (Base Petrol City): Around 11 km/l
User Reviews (NA Petrol with AC/passengers): Around 19 km/l
ARAI figures: Petrol: Manual(NA/Turbo): 19.3 km/l, Auto: Turbo 18.3 km/l
CNG: 28km/kg
Expert/User OpinionWhat’s Liked:• Stunning looks, awesome suspension, comfortable ride
• Spacious interior, high ground clearance
• Pocket-friendly base model, value for money
Points to Consider:• Power delivery concerns in slow traffic (base model)
• Hard gear shifting, high engine noise reported
• Negative service quality feedback from some
• Basic features missing in lower variants
Safety Rating0 Star for Adult & 1 Star for Child by Global NCAP

15. Tata Punch EV

Taking the popular Punch to an all-electric future, offering a green and zippy city commute.

AspectDetails
Key Features• Electric powertrain, Two battery pack options (Medium/Long Range)
• Automatic transmission, Spacious interior
• Sunroof (higher variants), Large central display
• Fast charging support
Mileage (Range)User-Reported (Long Range, Real-World): 210-230 km/charge
ARAI Range: Claimed to be higher
Expert/User OpinionWhat’s Liked:• Strong & instantaneous performance, comfortable ride
• Spacious cabin, easy city driving, fast charging
Points to Consider:• Lack of dedicated rear AC vents
• Occasional software glitches
• Real-world range a concern for frequent long highway trips
Safety Rating5-star Bharat NCAP

16. Skoda Kylaq

Skoda’s compact SUV contender, the Kylaq, aims to bring European engineering and driving pleasure to a wider audience.

AspectDetails
Key Features• Shares platform & 1.0L turbo-petrol engine with Kushaq/Slavia
•Transmissions: 6-speed manual, 6-speed torque converter
Notable features: 10-inch infotainment, sunroof (higher variants), electrically adjustable front seats, 6 airbags standard
• Spacious for 4, large boot
MileageARAI (as per Autocar India): 19.05 km/l (MT), 19.68 km/l (AT)
Note: Real-world mileage sensitive to driving style; turbo-petrol not always most fuel-efficient.
Expert Opinion Rating: 8/10
What’s Liked:• European engineering, fun driving manners, peppy engine
• Comfortable ride, well-synced gearboxes
• Aggressive entry price, nimble handling
• Skoda safety & durability reputation
Points to Consider:• Top variants priced near better-equipped competitors
• Refinement, rear seat comfort, ride quality could improve
Safety Rating5-star Bharat NCAP (6 airbags standard)

17. Kia Syros

Positioned to bridge a gap in Kia’s lineup, the Syros is expected to offer unique styling and a feature-rich experience.

AspectDetails
Key Features• Positioned between Sonet & Seltos; Unique angular styling
• Engines: 1.0L turbo-petrol (120hp/172Nm), 1.5L diesel (116hp/250Nm)
• Transmissions: 6MT/7DCT (petrol), 6MT/6TC (diesel)
Highlights: Dual 12.3″ displays, panoramic sunroof, reclining/sliding rear seats (cooled rear seat base option), ADAS (top variant), 360° camera, 6 airbags
• Spacious, practical interior, large boot (390-465L)
MileageARAI: Petrol MT: 18.2, Petrol AT (DCT): 17.68 km/l
Diesel MT: 20.75, Diesel AT (TC): 17.65 km/l
Real-World (City): Petrol MT: ~9.10, Petrol AT: ~8.30, Diesel AT: ~10.80 km/l
Note: Less frugal than Kylaq/Sonet.
Expert Opinion What’s Liked:• Spacious & practical cabin, comprehensive features (segment-firsts)
• Modern tech, peppy turbo-petrol, strong diesel low-end torque
• Compelling city SUV for comfort & convenience
Points to Consider:• Unconventional styling may divide opinion
• Engines can be vocal when pushed, slightly stiff ride
• Some body roll, lacks outright sportiness & highway refinement
Safety Rating5-star Bharat NCAP (6 airbags)

18. Citroen Basalt

The Basalt introduces a distinctive coupe-SUV design from Citroen, focusing on ride comfort and style.

AspectDetails
Key Features• Coupe-SUV design
• Engines: 1.2L NA petrol (82hp/115Nm, 5MT), 1.2L turbo-petrol (110hp/190Nm MT, 205Nm AT)
• Transmissions: 5MT (NA), 6MT/6TC (turbo)
Features: LED headlamps, 16″ alloys, auto climate, rear AC vents, wireless charging, 10.2″ touchscreen (wireless AA/CP), digital cluster
• Boot: 470L; Ground Clearance: 180mm
MileageClaimed: NA Petrol: 18 km/l
Turbo-Petrol MT: 19.5 km/l
Turbo-Petrol AT: 18.7 km/l
Note: Real-world mileage can drop significantly.
Expert Opinion Rating: 7/10
What’s Liked:• Unique styling, plush ride quality, strong turbo-petrol performance
• Spacious, practical, large boot, good ground clearance
• Ride comfort is a strength
Points to Consider:• AT gearbox needs fine-tuning, misses features vs rivals
• NA engine least powerful in class, vibrations at idle
• Engine noise intrusion, soft suspension leads to nose dive & floatiness
Safety Rating4-star Bharat NCAP (6 airbags, ESC, ISOFIX standard)

19. Citroen Aircross

AspectDetails
Key Features• Available in 5-seater configuration
• Powered by 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol engine (80 bhp/115 Nm)
• 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment (Plus variant) with wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
• 7-inch digital instrument cluster
• Electrically adjustable ORVMs (Plus variant)
• Rear parking sensors
• High ground clearance (200mm)
• Spacious cabin, comfortable seats, good legroom
• Large boot space (511 litres in 5-seater)
• Distinctive exterior design
• Focus on ride comfort
Mileage• ARAI Claimed: 17.5 kmpl (1.2L NA petrol, Manual)
• User Reviews: Varies depending on driving conditions/style
Expert/User OpinionWhat’s Liked:• Excellent ride quality and comfortable suspension
• Spacious and practical cabin (especially boot)
• Unique and stylish design
• Responsive and well-weighted steering
• Value-for-money in terms of space and comfort
Points to Consider:• NA petrol engine adequate for city, less peppy on highway
• Significant lack of features vs rivals (Auto AC, push-button start, sunroof, ventilated seats, more airbags in lower variants)
• Less widespread sales/service network
• Some ergonomic quirks (rear power window switch placement)
• Base variants feel basic
• No Global NCAP safety rating (though some variants offer 6 airbags)
Safety Rating• No Global NCAP safety rating available (Some variants offer 6 airbags)

Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is based on reviews, reports, and publicly available data as of May 2025. Mileage figures, especially user-reported ones, can vary significantly based on driving conditions, vehicle maintenance, and driving style. Features may vary by variant. It is always recommended to visit a dealership, take a test drive, and consult the latest brochures before making any purchasing decisions. Prices are not explicitly covered here but all models are generally positioned under the ₹10 lakh mark for at least some of their variants.

All prices are Ex-Showroom Delhi.

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