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From Tata Motors to Hyundai and Kia, some companies are still offering a diesel engine option in their cars in India
Although many carmakers have stopped offering diesel engines owing to tightening emission norms in recent years, consumer demand remains strong, especially in SUV models. The comfort of an automatic transmission and the high fuel economy and long driving range offered by diesel engines make them a perfect combination for SUVs.
Here are our top 5 picks for a diesel-automatic SUVs priced in around Rs. 10-15 lakh:
1. Tata Nexon
The Tata Nexon is one of the top-selling SUVs in India, offering a raft of premium features at competitive prices. Its diesel-automatic variant makes it the best pick for customers on a low budget. According to Tata Motors’ online configurator, prices start at just Rs. 10.65 lakh (ex-showroom) and go up to Rs. 14.02 lakh rupees (ex-showroom).
Instead of a sophisticated torque converter or dual-clutch automatic transmission, Tata Motors offers an automated manual transmission in the Nexon diesel. It’s a 6-speed unit, and while it may not be as smooth, it should deliver a higher fuel economy and be much lower on maintenance in the long run. The engine is a 1.5-litre four-cylinder unit producing 84.5 kW (113 hp) and 260 Nm of torque.
2. Kia Sonet
Customers looking for a more refined driving experience and higher reliability can consider the Kia Sonet. Kia uses a 1.5-litre four-cylinder diesel engine that develops 85 kW (114 hp) and 250 Nm of torque and offers a 6-speed automatic transmission, which is much smoother.
The Kia Sonet diesel-automatic’s prices range from Rs. 9.80 lakh (ex-showroom) to Rs. 14.17 lakh (ex-showroom).
Also Read: Mahindra Overtakes Tata Motors To No. 2 In FY26; What Powered The Climb?
3. Mahindra XUV 3XO
The Mahindra XUV 3XO’s quirky front-end doesn’t make it the most appealing model in its segment, but its torquey diesel engine and economical pricing make it worth considering. It has a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine tuned to deliver 85.5 kW (115 hp) and 300 Nm of torque, linked to a 6-speed automated manual transmission.
Prices of the Mahindra XUV 3XO start at Rs. 11.10 lakh (ex-showroom) and go up to Rs. 13.64 lakh (ex-showroom).
4. Hyundai Venue
The Hyundai Venue is a mechanical cousin of the Kia Sonet, but more advanced in terms of features, having been fully redesigned for a second generation just last year. From 12.3-inch cockpit displays, rear window sunshades, and a two-step reclining rear seat, it packs many better or additional features.
The all-new Hyundai Venue’s diesel engine and automatic transmission are the same as those of the Kia Sonet. However, it has been priced from Rs. 11.81 lakh (ex-showroom) to Rs. 15.69 lakh (ex-showroom).
Also Read: New Kia Seltos Hybrid Debuts, India Launch Likely Next Year
5. Kia Syros
The Kia Syros is closely related to the Kia Sonet, and while it has a quirky exterior, it features a significantly more upmarket interior. Level 2 advanced driver assistance systems, a dashcam, a triple-dashboard display setup, a sliding and reclining rear seat with a ventilation function, and many more premium features are exclusive to this model.
The diesel engine and automatic transmission of the Kia Syros are no different from those of the Kia Sonet. The premium model is available in two trims, priced at Rs. 15.22 lakh (ex-showroom) and Rs. 15.94 lakh (ex-showroom).
The post Mile Munchers On A Budget: Top 5 Diesel-Automatic SUVs Priced Around Rs. 10-15 Lakh appeared first on Gaadiwaadi.com – Latest Car & Bike News by Team GaadiWaadi.