The Indian car market is undergoing a clear shift—buyers are increasingly choosing SUVs over sedans and hatchbacks, drawn to their elevated stance, spacious cabins, and enhanced road presence.
If you're one of those planning to buy an SUV on a budget, here's a carefully curated list of five excellent value-for-money SUVs under ₹15 lakh (ex-showroom) that tick all the right boxes.
1. Skoda Kylaq (₹8.25 – ₹13.99 lakh)
The Skoda Kylaq brings German precision and engineering to a budget-friendly segment. Despite being competitively priced, it boasts premium touches like:
A single-pane sunroof
Ventilated and powered front seats
A 10-inch touchscreen and an 8-inch digital cluster
A strong 5-star BNCAP safety rating
It’s powered by a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine delivering 114 bhp and 178 Nm, offering punchy performance and a refined drive—ideal for both city commuting and highway cruising.
2. Tata Nexon (₹8 – ₹15.60 lakh)
One of India’s most popular SUVs, the Tata Nexon, stands out for its versatility, safety, and multiple fuel options. It features:
Electric sunroof
Ventilated front seats
360-degree camera, 10.25-inch touchscreen, and digital cluster
It boasts a 5-star BNCAP rating, reinforcing its safety-first approach. Buyers can choose between:
1.2-litre turbo petrol (118 bhp & 170 Nm)
1.5-litre diesel (113 bhp & 260 Nm)
CNG version (99 bhp & 170 Nm)
The Nexon offers a compelling balance of tech, comfort, and robust build quality.
3. Tata Punch (₹6 – ₹10.32 lakh)
If you're seeking a compact SUV with solid build and attractive pricing, the Tata Punch is a standout choice. It features:
Electric sunroof
Auto climate control
7-inch infotainment display and a digital cluster
With a 5-star GNCAP rating, the Punch is among the safest in its class. It’s available with a 1.2-litre petrol engine (87 bhp & 115 Nm) and a CNG option (72 bhp & 103 Nm). Notably, it was the best-selling SUV in 2024, thanks to its value-driven approach.
4. Mahindra XUV 3XO (₹7.99 – ₹15.56 lakh)
The XUV 3XO from Mahindra is a feature-loaded compact SUV with powerful engine choices and a premium feel.
Key highlights include:
Panoramic sunroof
Twin 10.25-inch screens
Level-2 ADAS (advanced safety features)
360-degree camera
Engine options include:
1.2-litre turbo petrol (110 bhp & 200 Nm)
1.5-litre diesel (115 bhp & 300 Nm)
Spacious interiors and segment-leading tech make the 3XO an excellent all-rounder.
5. Maruti Suzuki Brezza (₹8.69 – ₹14.14 lakh)
The Brezza remains a go-to option for those prioritizing practicality, comfort, and Maruti’s widespread service network. Its features include:
Electric sunroof
Heads-up display with turn-by-turn navigation
360-degree camera, 9-inch touchscreen, and wireless charging
Under the hood, it packs a 1.5-litre petrol engine (102 bhp & 137 Nm), also available in CNG (87 bhp & 121.5 Nm). It's tried-and-tested platform makes it a solid, dependable pick.
Final Thoughts
These five SUVs deliver a blend of technology, space, performance, and safety at competitive prices. Whether you’re looking for a rugged all-rounder like the Nexon or a tech-savvy compact SUV like the XUV 3XO, each of these models stands out in the crowded sub-₹15 lakh segment.
Be sure to test drive your preferred model and compare variant-wise offerings to find the SUV that fits your lifestyle and budget best.
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