SUVs have become the go-to choice for Indian car buyers thanks to their bold styling, high ground clearance, and road presence. But many believe owning a powerful SUV means spending a fortune. Fortunately, that’s no longer the case. In 2025, there are several feature-rich, powerful, and stylish SUVs available in India under ₹15 lakh that suit both city driving and weekend adventures. This guide highlights the top options that offer performance, value, and reliability — all without breaking the bank.
Why SUVs Under ₹15 Lakh Are Popular
The SUV segment under ₹15 lakh has gained popularity due to rising demand for spacious, practical vehicles with modern features. These SUVs often come with strong engines, advanced infotainment systems, safety tech, and decent fuel efficiency. They offer the feel of a premium vehicle while staying within a mid-budget range, making them ideal for Indian families and young professionals.
Best SUVs Under ₹15 Lakh in India (2025)
Here are five great SUV options that offer excellent performance, strong build quality, and good value under ₹15 lakh (ex-showroom):
1. Hyundai Creta (E, EX, S variants)
A consistent bestseller, the Creta offers a refined engine, stylish design, and a feature-packed cabin. Even the base variants provide decent comfort and technology, while the higher trims under ₹15 lakh offer more advanced features.
2. Tata Nexon
Known for its 5-star Global NCAP safety rating, the Nexon is a compact SUV with powerful petrol and diesel options. Its bold styling, great ground clearance, and strong build make it a popular choice for Indian roads.
3. Kia Sonet (HTX and below)
Kia’s Sonet packs premium features like a touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, and drive modes in a compact SUV body. It delivers a solid mix of performance and urban practicality.
4. Maruti Suzuki Brezza
Maruti’s trusted SUV comes with excellent mileage, a smart hybrid petrol engine, and robust after-sales service. The Brezza balances practicality and affordability while offering good space and ride comfort.
5. Mahindra XUV 3XO (Mid variants)
Mahindra’s latest compact SUV packs segment-first features like ADAS, panoramic sunroof, and a turbo-petrol engine — all under ₹15 lakh. It’s fast becoming a hit among younger buyers seeking style and performance.
Comparison Table – Top SUVs Under ₹15 Lakh
| Model | Engine Options | Power Output | Mileage (ARAI) | Key Features | Price (Ex-Showroom) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Creta | 1.5L Petrol/Diesel | 113–116 PS | 17–21 kmpl | LED DRLs, Touchscreen, Safety Kit | ₹11 – ₹15 lakh |
| Tata Nexon | 1.2L Turbo Petrol/1.5L Diesel | 118–113 PS | 17–24 kmpl | 5-Star Safety, Touchscreen, ESP | ₹8 – ₹14.5 lakh |
| Kia Sonet | 1.2L Petrol/1.0L Turbo | 82–118 PS | 18–22 kmpl | Bose Audio, Drive Modes, Sunroof | ₹7.9 – ₹14.5 lakh |
| Maruti Brezza | 1.5L Petrol Mild Hybrid | 103 PS | 20.1 kmpl | Hybrid Tech, Auto AC, Cruise Control | ₹8.3 – ₹14.1 lakh |
| Mahindra XUV 3XO | 1.2L Turbo Petrol | 110–130 PS | 18–20 kmpl | ADAS, Panoramic Sunroof, 6 Airbags | ₹8.5 – ₹14.9 lakh |
SUVs under ₹15 lakh in India are now more powerful, safer, and better equipped than ever. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, performance, or tech-loaded cabins, there’s a great option available in this price range. With the growing competition among automakers, buyers now have more choices without compromising on features or safety. If you’re looking for a strong, stylish, and affordable SUV, the vehicles listed above are worth a test drive.
FAQ’s:
Which is the most powerful SUV under ₹15 lakh in India?
The Mahindra XUV 3XO Turbo variant and Tata Nexon Turbo offer the most powerful engines in this price segment.
Which SUV under ₹15 lakh offers the best mileage?
The Maruti Brezza offers excellent mileage with its smart hybrid engine, followed closely by diesel variants of the Tata Nexon and Kia Sonet.
Are these SUVs good for highway trips and long drives?
Yes, all these SUVs offer good comfort, safety, and boot space, making them ideal for long-distance travel and weekend getaways.
Which is the safest SUV under ₹15 lakh?
The Tata Nexon and Mahindra XUV 3XO come with top safety ratings and features like six airbags and electronic stability control.
