In response to the shifting automotive preferences of Indian buyers, SUVs have gained significant traction in recent times. The market has seen the introduction of various mini-SUVs and mid-size SUVs by manufacturers keen on meeting the growing demand. One crucial aspect influencing the choice of SUVs in India is their ground clearance, a feature vital for navigating diverse and challenging road conditions. This article presents an insightful compilation of models priced under Rs. 10 lakh that stand out for their impressive ground clearance, addressing the specific needs of Indian consumers.
Best SUV Under Rs 10 Lakh in India
1. Tata Nexon
With a ground clearance of 209mm, the Tata Nexon takes the lead as the sub-four-metre SUV offering the highest clearance under the Rs. 10 lakh bracket. This model, available with both petrol and diesel powertrains, starts at a competitive price of Rs. 8 lakh (ex-showroom). An eagerly anticipated facelift for the Nexon is on the horizon, scheduled for release in October this year.
The 2023 Tata Nexon offers a choice between petrol and diesel engines. The 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine generates 120PS and 170Nm, available with four transmission options: 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, 6-speed AMT, and a new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). The 1.5-litre diesel engine, producing 115PS and 260Nm, is paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed AMT transmission. This diverse range of powertrains and transmission options provides flexibility to cater to various preferences and driving styles.
2. Hyundai Exter
Adding to the roster is Hyundai’s recent entry, the Exter. Priced from Rs. 6 lakh ex-showroom, this SUV sets itself apart by including six airbags as a standard feature, making it one of the most budget-friendly options with this safety offering. The Exter doesn’t compromise on safety, boasting additional features like electronic stability control, a tyre pressure monitoring system, a rearview camera, hill start assist control, and more.
The Exter is powered by a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, delivering 83PS and 114Nm of torque. It offers flexibility with transmission choices, allowing drivers to opt for either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed AMT, enhancing convenience and accommodating different driving preferences.
3. Maruti Suzuki Brezza
Securing the third position is the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, which underwent a facelift in the previous year and is currently available with a starting price of Rs. 8.29 lakh (ex-showroom). Despite a slightly reduced ground clearance of 200mm compared to its elder sibling, the Grand Vitara, by 10mm, the Brezza remains an enticing choice. Beyond its refreshed aesthetics, the Brezza offers versatile powertrain options, featuring both petrol and CNG variants. This combination of affordability, style, and diverse powertrain options solidifies its standing in the sub-four-metre SUV segment.
The Maruti Brezza is driven by a 1.5-litre petrol engine, generating 103PS and 137Nm of torque. It provides versatility with transmission options, allowing drivers to choose between a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission, catering to different driving preferences and ensuring a dynamic driving experience.
4. Mahindra XUV300
For those seeking a compelling option, the Mahindra XUV300 presents itself as a worthy contender, commencing at a starting price of Rs 8 lakh ex-showroom. This SUV caters to diverse preferences, offering both petrol and diesel variants to align with your preferred powertrain. In line with modern safety standards, the XUV300 mirrors the Nexon by providing six airbags. Furthermore, it enhances safety with front parking sensors, electronic stability program, and an array of additional safety features, reinforcing its appeal as a comprehensive and secure choice in the sub-four-metre SUV category.
5. Hyundai Venue
Elevating the standards in its segment, the Hyundai Venue emerges as one of the most feature-rich SUVs, commencing with a competitive starting price of Rs. 7.77 lakh (ex-showroom). This compact SUV, with a ground clearance of 195mm, signifies Hyundai’s commitment to blending style and substance. Notably, the carmaker has introduced a new Knight Edition for the Venue, enhancing its appeal across three variants with two powertrain options. The 1.0-litre turbo-petrol variant, generating 118bhp, offers versatility with a choice between a six-speed manual and an automatic seven-speed DCT (dual-clutch transmission). Achieving ARAI-certified mileages of 18kmpl and 18.3kmpl, respectively, this edition exemplifies the Venue’s prowess in combining performance and fuel efficiency.
6. Maruti Suzuki Fronx
In April of this year, Maruti Suzuki introduced the Fronx, a crossover based on the Baleno, with prices starting from Rs. 7.47 lakh (ex-showroom). Despite its Baleno lineage, the Fronx distinguishes itself with an improved ground clearance of 190mm. This model marks the return of the booster jet petrol engine, further enhancing the driving experience and expanding Maruti Suzuki’s diverse offerings in the Indian market.
7. Tata Punch
Tata Motors presents the Punch, an affordable SUV starting at ₹6 lakh ex-showroom, catering to budget-conscious consumers. This model, available in a CNG option, follows the footsteps of the Nexon by securing a five-star safety rating and featuring dual airbags. The Punch stands out as a compact SUV offering essential features at a wallet-friendly price point. Beyond its economical appeal, the Tata Punch impresses with its stylish design, ride comfort, extensive features, and practicality. Whether in manual or AMT version, the Punch delivers a commendable performance, with the AMT showcasing efficiency despite a relatively weak bottom-end, ensuring a reliable and drama-free driving experience.
8. Kia Sonet
For those seeking a feature-rich and dependable SUV, the Kia Sonet emerges as a compelling choice, with prices commencing at Rs 7.79 lakh ex-showroom. Setting a safety standard, the car includes four airbags as a standard feature and is adorned with a sunroof, adding a touch of luxury. Elevating the driving experience, the Sonet features large infotainment screens and a digital driver’s display, delivering a premium ambiance. With the availability of both petrol and diesel powertrains, the Kia Sonet ensures versatility in meeting diverse preferences and solidifies its position as a well-rounded and desirable SUV option.
Right from the entry-level variant, the Kia Sonet ensures a commitment to safety with a comprehensive set of standard features across the entire range. This includes ABS with EBD, brake assist, ESC, hill assist, traction control, six airbags, ISOFIX child anchor, speed-sensing door lock, rear parking sensors, and TPMS, establishing a robust safety standard throughout the model lineup.
9. Renault Kiger
The Renault Kiger is priced between Rs 6.50 lakh and Rs 11.23 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). It offers two petrol engine options: a 1-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine (72PS/96Nm) and a 1-litre turbo-petrol engine (100PS/160Nm). Both engines are paired with a standard 5-speed manual transmission, with the 1-litre AMT variant and the turbo-petrol variant offering a 5-speed AMT and CVT, respectively. The Kiger boasts three drive modes—Normal, Eco, and Sport. Safety features include electronic stability program (ESP), hill start assist (HSA), traction control system (TCS), and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
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