Best 4x4 SUV Under 15 Lakhs in India – Affordable Off-Roaders
March 17th, 2025
The perfect choice for those who love off-roading and road journeys alongside car enthusiasts would be a 4x4 SUV. An automobile equipped with four-wheel drive distribution channels engine power through all their wheels to increase traction and grip when traveling over irregular terrains such as wilderness trails and desert landscapes.
Each and every one of you thinks 4x4 SUVs are expensive by rate, but still, there are some great ones under 15 lakh rupees in India. Here, in this post, we will invite you to the greatest 4x4 SUVs at an affordable price you can buy.
The Reasons for Buying a 4x4 SUV
A 4x4 SUV is a rugged vehicle that can drive on any road and in any weather. There are certain reasons why you need to hire one:
Better Grip: 4x4 SUVs possess excellent grip on rough and slippery roads.
Best for Adventure: Best for driving on hills, forests, or desert roads.
Better Drive: The extra control makes the drive smoother on poor roads.
Robust Build: They are rugged and strong.
Improved Ground Clearance: Saves the vehicle from getting damaged by speed breakers or boulder roads.
Now let us take a look at some of the top 4x4 SUVs available in India at a price point of less than 15 lakhs.
1. Mahindra Thar (Old Model)
Price: Around Rs. 10-14 Lakhs (Base Model or Used)
Engine: 2.5L Diesel
Power: 105 BHP
Torque: 247 Nm
Mileage: 13-15 km/l
Advantages: Tough body, off-roader, better resale value.
Disadvantages: Less comfort, fewer features.
Mahindra Thar is among the best 4x4 SUVs in India. It has a tough body, a powerful engine, and rugged off-road capabilities. The new version is expensive, but you can buy an old version or base model for under 15 lakhs.
2. Maruti Suzuki Jimny (Base Variant)
Price: Rs. 12.74 Lakhs (Ex-showroom)
Engine: 1.5L Petrol
Power: 105 BHP
Torque: 134 Nm
Mileage: 16-17 km/l
Pros: Lightweight, compact, fuel-efficient, robust.
Cons: Small cabin, not powerful enough for highway driving.
Maruti Suzuki Jimny is a light-weight small 4x4 SUV capable of city driving and off-roading. The car features low-range gearbox along with 4x4 drivetrain and makes a very capable vehicle for drives to adventure points.
3. Mahindra Bolero Neo
Price: Rs. 9.63 - 12.15 Lakhs
Engine: 1.5L Diesel
Power: 100 BHP
Torque: 260 Nm
Mileage: 16-17 km/l
Pros: Good body, good mileage, value for money.
Cons: Underlying features, not a full-time 4x4.
Mahindra Bolero Neo is a budget SUV with Multi-Terrain Technology (MTT) for off-road driving on unsealed roads. Not a real 4x4 but does light off-roading very well.
4. Force Gurkha (Old Model)
Price: Rs. 14-15 Lakhs (Second-Hand or Base Variant)
Engine: 2.6L Diesel
Power: 91 BHP
Torque: 250 Nm
Mileage: 14-16 km/l
Pros: Hard-bodied, true off-roader, good clearance.
Cons: Low power, average features.
Force Gurkha is a tough off-roader SUV with a cuboidal body and a heavy-duty vehicle. The latest one is pretty expensive, but you might be able to buy an older one for 15 lakhs.
5. Tata Punch EV (Soon to Launch 4x4 Model)
Expected Price: Rs. 12-15 Lakhs
Motor: Electric
Power: Around 120 BHP
Range: 300-350 km
Advantages: Future-proof car, green car, silky ride.
Disadvantages: Waiting time for a charge, not yet out.
Tata Punch EV will be offered with an AWD (All-Wheel Drive) configuration, hence the car will be a perfect option for budget off-roader buyers.
Which 4x4 SUV to buy?
If you wish to drive an authentic off-road SUV, buy the Mahindra Thar (Old Model) or Force Gurkha (Old Model).
If you wish to purchase a budget-friendly and light SUV, purchase the Maruti Suzuki Jimny.
If you want to purchase a low-cost one, purchase the Mahindra Bolero Neo.
Read More: Maruti Suzuki Jimny is India's Most Affordable 4x4 SUV to maintain with least Service Cost
Conclusion
A 4x4 SUV can be more than perfectly matched for off-road adventure as well as for a beginner on an off-road road. Though none of the 4x4 SUVs fall in the price range below expensive, a handful of affordable options like Maruti Suzuki Jimny, Mahindra Thar (Old Model), Mahindra Bolero Neo, and Force Gurkha (Old Model) do exist, which one can get hold of to avail of a nice off-road experience for less than 15 lakhs.
Prior to purchase, compare the specifications, take an SUV for a test ride, and contrast your needs in order to pick the most appropriate SUV.
FAQs
1. What is a 4x4 SUV?
4x4 SUV refers to a vehicle through which power goes to the four wheels and therefore best for use off the roads.
2. What is the lowest price for a 4x4 SUV available in India?
The cheapest 4x4 SUVs currently available in the market below 15 lakhs are Mahindra Bolero Neo and Maruti Suzuki Jimny (Base Variant).
3. Can a new Mahindra Thar be purchased under 15 lakhs?
No, the new Mahindra Thar is priced between Rs. 15-17 lakhs. But you can purchase a second-hand Thar or an older one under 15 lakhs.
4. What is the best 4x4 SUV for a first-timer?
The Maruti Suzuki Jimny is ideal for novices as it is light, easy to maneuver, and economical.
5. Is a 4x4 SUV suitable for daily use?
Yes, but according to your requirements. If you drive within the city, then the 2-wheel drive (4x2) SUV will be okay. But if you drive on rugged roads or reside in hill stations, then a 4x4 SUV is ideal.
6. What is the 4x4 SUV mileage?
The fuel mileage of most 4x4 SUVs is between 12-18 km/l, varying with the engine and conditions of driving.
7. Does a 4x4 Tata Nexon exist?
There is no such 4x4 Tata Nexon. Still, the upcoming Tata Punch EV AWD can provide an all-wheel drive model.
8. Do electric 4x4 SUVs exist below 15 lakhs?
There are not yet any electric 4x4 SUVs costing less than 15 lakhs, but the Tata Punch EV AWD will likely be added to their ranks soon.