Top 5 SUVs to Buy Under Rs 15 Lakh in India

The sub-Rs 15 lakh SUV segment in India offers a wide range of options to suit every type of buyer, from tech-savvy urban commuters to rugged outdoor enthusiasts. With the festive season in full swing, the auto market is expected to see a surge in SUV purchases. If you're planning to buy an SUV under Rs 15 lakh, we've curated some of the best options from trusted brands like Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, and Kia to help you find the perfect ride. So, without further ado, let’s dive in.

Kia Sonet

The Kia Sonet is a feature-packed SUV that offers great value with several well-equipped variants priced under Rs 15 lakh. It caters to a wider audience with its diverse powertrain options. Under the hood, the Sonet offers two petrol engines and one diesel option. The 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine delivers 82bhp and 115Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. Meanwhile, the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine produces 118bhp and 172Nm, and is available with either a 6-speed intelligent manual transmission (iMT) or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

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The diesel variant houses a 1.5-litre engine that churns out 114.4bhp and 250Nm of torque, making it a strong performer in the segment. It is available with multiple transmission choices, including a 6-speed manual, 6-speed iMT, and a 6-speed torque converter automatic (AT), making it suitable for both efficiency-focused and comfort-oriented drivers. The compact SUV's price starts at Rs 7.30 lakh (ex-showroom).

Tata Nexon

The Tata Nexon, priced from Rs 7.32 lakh (ex-showroom), is one of the strong contenders in the compact SUV segment. It is known for its solid build quality, extensive safety features, and multiple powertrain options. Notably, the Nexon was the best-selling car in India last month, surpassing popular models like the Maruti Suzuki Dzire and Hyundai Creta.

The Tata SUV is available in petrol, diesel, and CNG variants. The 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine produces 118bhp and 170Nm and is offered with four transmission choices: a 5-speed manual, a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed AMT, and a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). The 1.5-litre diesel engine delivers 113bhp and 260Nm, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed AMT. Meanwhile, the CNG variant has a 1.2-litre turbocharged bi-fuel engine that develops 99bhp and 170Nm. It comes exclusively with a manual gearbox and supports direct-start in CNG mode, thanks to its single ECU that allows seamless switching between petrol and CNG.

Maruti Suzuki Brezza

Another ideal option in the under Rs 15 lakh SUV segment is the Maruti Suzuki Brezza: a practical choice, especially for value-conscious buyers who prioritise low maintenance costs and reliable after-sales service. The Brezza is powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that delivers 102bhp at 6,000rpm and 136.8Nm of torque at 4,400rpm. Buyers can choose between a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission.

The Brezza is equipped with Maruti’s smart hybrid technology, which includes features like idle start-stop, brake energy regeneration, and torque assist during acceleration. A CNG variant is also available. While it offers a lower output of 86bhp and 121Nm, the CNG model has the same 1.5-litre engine and comes exclusively with a manual transmission. The prices start at Rs 8.26 lakh (ex-showroom).

Hyundai Creta

The Hyundai Creta, though slightly nudging the upper end of the Rs 15 lakh budget, continues to be a top choice in the mid-size SUV segment. The base petrol models are priced from around Rs 10.73 lakh (ex-showroom), making it an accessible entry point into the popular Creta lineup.

The Hyundai SUV offers a range of powertrain options, including 1.5-litre petrol and diesel engines. The naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine produces 113bhp and 144Nm of torque, while the more performance-focused 1.5-litre turbo-petrol variant delivers 158bhp and 253Nm. The 1.5-litre diesel engine, on the other hand, develops 114bhp and 250Nm. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), and a 7-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission.

Mahindra Scorpio-N

If you’re looking for size, road presence, and rugged performance, the Mahindra Scorpio-N delivers a unique value. It starts at around Rs 13.20 lakh (ex-showroom), keeping it just within the Rs 15 lakh budget, although higher trims quickly go beyond that mark.

Mahindra offers the Scorpio-N with two powerful engine options: a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and a 2.2-litre diesel. The diesel variant also brings added capability with an optional 4WD system in the higher trims, making it a strong choice for those who want a versatile SUV with serious off-road potential.

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Note: Prices mentioned are starting ex-showroom figures and may vary depending on the selected variant, dealership, location, taxes, and additional factors.