Best Diesel Cars in India: A comprehensive study

In the ever-evolving automotive landscape of India, diesel cars continue to hold a significant place. Known for their torque, fuel efficiency, and longevity; diesel cars are often the go-to choice for many Indian consumers, especially those who clock high mileage or prefer larger vehicles.  Whether you’re in the market for an affordable option under 10 lakhs, a mid-range vehicle under 20 lakhs, or a premium car that offers the best in comfort and performance, we aim to cover the best diesel cars under several categories, all in this comprehensive blog.

Understanding Diesel Cars in India

Diesel engines are known for their high torque output. This translates into better pulling power and easier acceleration, especially when the vehicle is fully loaded. This makes diesel cars particularly suitable for SUVs, MPVs, and larger sedans. The best diesel cars in India combine factors such as performance, fuel efficiency, features, safety, and value for money.

Diesel engines typically offer better fuel efficiency compared to their petrol counterparts. This makes them cost-effective for those who drive long distances regularly. It is important to note that diesel cars usually come with a higher initial cost and may require more expensive maintenance in the long run.

Top 10 Diesel Cars in India

Let’s start by looking at the top 10 diesel cars in India across various segments. These vehicles have consistently received positive reviews from experts and consumers, which makes some of them the best options in the market.

1. Hyundai Creta

The Hyundai Creta has been a bestseller in the compact SUV segment, and its diesel variant is one of the best diesel cars in India. Its 1.5-liter diesel engine offers a good balance of power and efficiency, while its feature-rich interior and comfortable ride quality make it a favorite among Indian buyers.

2. Kia Seltos

Another strong contender in the compact SUV segment, the Kia Seltos offers a powerful 1.5-liter diesel engine. With its modern design, tech-laden interior, and engaging driving dynamics, the Seltos diesel is one of the best diesel cars in India for those seeking a blend of style and substance.

3. Tata Altroz

In the premium hatchback segment, the Tata Altroz stands out with its striking design and 5-star Global NCAP safety rating. Its diesel engine offers good performance and efficiency, making it one of the best diesel cars in India for those prioritizing safety and style in a compact package.

4. Mahindra Thar

For off-road enthusiasts, the new Mahindra Thar is one of the best diesel cars in India. Its powerful diesel engine, coupled with four-wheel drive capability, makes it an excellent choice for adventure seekers.

5. Toyota Fortuner

In the full-size SUV segment, the Toyota Fortuner continues to dominate. Its robust diesel engine, reliable performance, and commanding road presence make it one of the best diesel cars in India for those seeking a premium SUV experience.

6. Hyundai Venue

The Hyundai Venue offers a diesel engine option in the subcompact SUV segment. Its combination of compact dimensions, feature-rich interior, and efficient diesel motor makes it one of the best diesel cars in India for urban dwellers looking for a versatile vehicle.

7. Maruti Suzuki Dzire

While Maruti Suzuki has phased out diesel engines from most of its lineup, some older models of the Dzire diesel are still available in the market. Known for its excellent fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs, it remains one of the best diesel cars in India in the compact sedan segment.

8. Honda City

The Honda City diesel offers a perfect blend of performance and efficiency. Its responsive diesel engine, spacious interior, and premium features make it one of the best diesel cars in India in the mid-size sedan category.

9. Tata Nexon

The Tata Nexon diesel is another excellent option in the compact SUV segment. With its distinctive design, comfortable ride, and efficient diesel engine, it’s one of the best diesel cars in India for those seeking a balance of style and practicality.

10. Mahindra XUV700

Rounding out our top 10 is the Mahindra XUV700, which has made waves with its powerful diesel engine options, advanced features, and competitive pricing. It’s quickly becoming one of the best diesel cars in India in the mid-size SUV segment.

Best Diesel Cars in India Under 10 Lakhs

For many first-time car buyers or those on a budget, finding the best diesel cars in India under 10 lakhs could be the main priority. This price range offers a variety of options, from compact hatchbacks to subcompact SUVs.

1. Tata Altroz

Starting Price (Diesel): Approximately 6.99 lakhs

The Altroz diesel is one of the best diesel cars in India under 10 lakhs, offering a perfect blend of style, safety, and efficiency. Its 1.5-liter diesel engine delivers 90 PS of power and 200 Nm of torque, providing good performance for both city and highway driving. With its 5-star Global NCAP safety rating, it’s an excellent choice for safety-conscious buyers.

2. Hyundai Grand i10 Nios

Starting Price (Diesel): Approximately 7.09 lakhs

The Grand i10 Nios diesel offers a premium feel at an affordable price point. Its 1.2-liter diesel engine produces 75 PS and 190 Nm of torque, providing smooth performance and excellent fuel efficiency. With features like a touchscreen infotainment system and wireless charging, it offers great value for money.

3. Ford Figo

Starting Price (Diesel): Approximately 7.69 lakhs

The Ford Figo diesel is known for its punchy performance and engaging driving dynamics. Its 1.5-liter diesel engine delivers 100 PS and 215 Nm of torque, making it one of the most powerful cars in its segment. It’s one of the best diesel cars in India under 10 lakhs for those who enjoy driving.

4. Hyundai Aura

Starting Price (Diesel): Approximately 7.89 lakhs

The Hyundai Aura diesel offers a more premium experience in the compact sedan segment. Its 1.2-liter diesel engine delivers good performance and excellent fuel efficiency. With a comfortable ride and spacious interior, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a compact family car.

5. Mahindra XUV300

Starting Price (Diesel): Approximately 8.76 lakhs

Just sneaking under the 10 lakh mark (ex-showroom) in its base diesel variant, the XUV300 is one of the best diesel cars in India in the subcompact SUV segment. Its 1.5-liter diesel engine is powerful and refined, while its spacious interior and strong safety credentials make it a compelling choice.

Best Diesel Cars in India Under 20 Lakhs

Moving up the price range, the best diesel cars in India under 20 lakhs offer more features, better performance, and often more space. This segment includes premium hatchbacks, sedans, and SUVs.

1. Hyundai Creta

Starting Price (Diesel): Approximately 10.51 lakhs

The Hyundai Creta diesel is one of the best-selling SUVs in India. Its 1.5-liter diesel engine offers a good balance of performance and efficiency. With its feature-rich interior, comfortable ride, and stylish design, the Creta is a popular choice for those seeking a well-rounded SUV experience.

2. Kia Seltos

Starting Price (Diesel): Approximately 10.89 lakhs

The Kia Seltos diesel has made quite an impact in the compact SUV segment. Its 1.5-liter diesel engine is refined and powerful. With its modern design, tech-laden interior, and engaging driving dynamics, the Seltos is one of the best diesel cars in India for those seeking a premium compact SUV.

3. Tata Harrier

Starting Price (Diesel): Approximately 14.39 lakhs

The Tata Harrier offers a more premium SUV experience. Its 2.0-liter diesel engine, sourced from Fiat, delivers strong performance. With its striking design, spacious interior, and advanced features, the Harrier is one of the best diesel cars in India in the mid-size SUV segment.

4. Mahindra XUV700

Starting Price (Diesel): Approximately 13.45 lakhs

The Mahindra XUV700 has quickly become one of the best diesel cars in India with its powerful engine options, advanced features, and competitive pricing. It offers two diesel engine options: a 2.2-liter unit in two states of tune, catering to different performance needs.

5. Honda City

Starting Price (Diesel): Approximately 12.89 lakhs

For those preferring a sedan, the Honda City diesel is one of the best options under 20 lakhs. Its 1.5-liter i-DTEC diesel engine offers a good balance of performance and efficiency. With Honda’s reputation for reliability and a spacious, well-appointed interior, it’s a solid choice in this price range.

Diesel Car: Low Price Options

While we’ve covered some budget-friendly options in our “under 10 lakhs” section, let’s take a closer look at some of the best low-price diesel cars in India. These vehicles offer reliable transportation at an affordable price point, making them ideal for first-time buyers or those on a tight budget.

1. Maruti Suzuki Swift (Old Model)

While Maruti Suzuki has discontinued diesel engines in their current lineup, you might still find older models of the Swift diesel in the used car market. Known for its peppy performance and excellent fuel efficiency, it was one of the best diesel cars in India in the affordable hatchback segment.

2. Tata Tiago

Starting Price (Diesel – Discontinued): Approximately 6.36 lakhs

Although Tata has discontinued the diesel variant of the Tiago, you might still find some in the used car market. It offered one of the most affordable diesel engines in a hatchback, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers.

3. Ford Figo

Starting Price (Diesel): Approximately 7.69 lakhs

The Ford Figo diesel, while slightly more expensive than the previous two options, still offers great value for money. Its powerful diesel engine and engaging driving dynamics make it one of the best diesel cars in India in the affordable segment.

4. Hyundai Grand i10 Nios

Starting Price (Diesel): Approximately 7.09 lakhs

The Grand i10 Nios diesel offers a premium feel at a relatively affordable price point. Its refined diesel engine and feature-rich interior make it a compelling option in the low-price diesel car segment.

5. Hyundai Aura

Starting Price (Diesel): Approximately 7.89 lakhs

For those looking for a compact sedan, the Hyundai Aura diesel is one of the most affordable options. It offers a good balance of performance, efficiency, and features, making it one of the best diesel cars in India for budget-conscious sedan buyers.

Best Mileage Diesel Cars in India

Fuel efficiency is a crucial factor for many car buyers in India, and diesel cars are often chosen for their superior mileage. Let’s explore some of the best mileage diesel cars in India across different segments:

1. Hyundai Grand i10 Nios

Claimed Mileage: Up to 25.1 km/l

The Grand i10 Nios diesel is one of the best mileage diesel cars in India. Its 1.2-liter diesel engine offers an impressive balance of performance and fuel efficiency, making it an excellent choice for cost-conscious buyers.

2. Honda City

Claimed Mileage: Up to 24.1 km/l

Despite its larger size, the Honda City diesel manages to deliver impressive fuel efficiency, especially on highways. This makes it one of the best diesel cars in India for those who frequently undertake long journeys.

3. Hyundai Aura

Claimed Mileage: Up to 25.35 km/l

The Aura diesel is another fuel-efficiency champion from Hyundai. Its 1.2-liter diesel engine is one of the most fuel-efficient in its class, making it a strong contender among the best mileage diesel cars in India.

4. Kia Seltos

Claimed Mileage: Up to 21 km/l

In the compact SUV segment, the Kia Seltos diesel offers impressive fuel efficiency without compromising on performance. This makes it one of the best diesel cars in India for those seeking an SUV with good mileage.

5. Tata Altroz

Claimed Mileage: Up to 25.11 km/l

The Altroz diesel combines style, safety, and excellent fuel efficiency. Its 1.5-liter diesel engine is one of the most fuel-efficient in the premium hatchback segment, making it one of the best mileage diesel cars in India.

7-Seater Diesel Cars in India

For larger families or those who frequently travel with groups, 7 seater diesel cars offer the perfect solution. Diesel engines are particularly well-suited for larger vehicles due to their torque output.

1. Toyota Fortuner

The Fortuner is one of the most popular 7-seater diesel cars in India, known for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and premium features. Its 2.8-liter diesel engine delivers robust performance, making it ideal for both city driving and highway cruising.

2. Mahindra XUV700

The XUV700 offers both 6 and 7-seater configurations with powerful diesel engine options. With its modern design, feature-rich interior, and strong performance, it’s quickly becoming one of the best diesel cars in India in the mid-size SUV segment.

3. Tata Safari

The new Tata Safari brings back a legendary nameplate with modern engineering. Its 2.0-liter diesel engine, spacious 7-seater layout, and premium features make it one of the best diesel cars in India for those seeking a comfortable family SUV.

4. Mahindra Scorpio

The Mahindra Scorpio has long been a favourite in the 7-seater diesel cars segment. Its rugged build, powerful diesel engine, and affordable pricing make it a popular choice for those seeking a versatile family vehicle.

5. MG Hector Plus

The MG Hector Plus offers a 7-seater configuration with a refined 2.0-liter diesel engine. With its feature-rich interior and striking design, it’s one of the best diesel cars in India for those seeking a premium 7-seater experience.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Diesel Car

These are some of the important factors that needs consideration while selecting a diesel car in India that suits buyer needs:

• Fuel Efficiency: While diesel cars generally offer better mileage than petrol counterparts, efficiency can vary between models.
• Performance: Consider the power and torque output, especially if you frequently drive on highways or with full loads.
• Maintenance Costs: Diesel cars typically have higher maintenance costs than petrol vehicles.
• Driving Pattern: If you clock high mileage or frequently drive on highways, a diesel car might be more economical in the long run.
• Initial Cost: Diesel variants are usually more expensive than their petrol counterparts.
• Resale Value: Diesel cars often have better resale value, especially in larger vehicle segments.
• Environmental Concerns: Consider the emissions of the diesel car, as some cities have restrictions on older diesel vehicles.

Conclusion

From economical hatchbacks to powerful SUVs, diesel cars continue to hold a significant place in the Indian automotive market, despite the growing popularity of petrol and electric alternatives.

The best diesel cars in India stand out for their impressive fuel efficiency, strong torque output, and long-term durability. While considering a budget-friendly option under 10 lakhs, a mid-range vehicle under 20 lakhs, or a premium 7-seater for family use, there’s a diesel car that can meet all these requirements.

Ultimately, the “best” diesel car for an individual will depend on their specific needs, driving habits, and budget. With the right choice, a diesel car can offer a satisfying blend of performance, efficiency, and value for years.