Rear-wheel-drive (RWD) cars occupy a special place in the hearts of driving enthusiasts. While the Indian mass market is dominated by front-wheel-drive (FWD) models due to their lower cost and packaging benefits, RWD vehicles continue to appeal to those who crave pure driving feel. With power sent to the rear wheels, these cars offer sharper handling, better balance, and a more engaging driving experience.
But RWD isn’t limited to sports cars alone. Many practical, everyday models—from vans to rugged SUVs—use rear-wheel drive for its superior load-carrying ability, durability, and better traction on broken roads. If you’re looking for accessible RWD options, here’s a curated list of the 10 most affordable rear-wheel-drive cars currently on sale in India.
10. Toyota Fortuner
Price: From ₹33.64 lakh
The Toyota Fortuner just sneaks into this list, and for good reason. Its tough build, reliability and strong road presence have made it a favourite among SUV buyers. Offered with both petrol and diesel engines, the Fortuner gets rear-wheel drive as standard, with a 4×4 option available on select variants. While its interior is functional and spacious, the cabin no longer feels premium for the price.
Key highlights:
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2.7L petrol / 2.8L diesel engines
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Manual & automatic options
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Variants: P 4×2 AT, D 4×2 MT, D 4×2 AT, Legender D 4×2 AT
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Price: ₹33.64–41.54 lakh
9. Mahindra XEV 9e
Price: From ₹21.90 lakh
Mahindra’s all-electric XEV 9e comes exclusively with RWD across all variants. Available with 59kWh and 79kWh battery packs, it delivers strong performance—0–100kph in a claimed 6.8sec with the larger battery. Packed with tech and features, it offers long range and refined dynamics, though the rear visibility is limited.
Key highlights:
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Battery: 59kWh / 79kWh
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MIDC range: 542km / 656km
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Variants: Pack One to Pack Three
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Price: ₹21.90–31.25 lakh
8. Isuzu D-Max
Price: From ₹20.34 lakh
The Isuzu D-Max, available in Hi-Lander and V-Cross trims, blends rugged utility with lifestyle appeal. With its ladder-frame chassis and rear-wheel-drive layout, the D-Max is designed to handle rough roads and heavy loads. The large footprint does make city driving challenging, but few pickups match its durability.
Key highlights:
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1.9L diesel engine
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Manual (Hi-Lander) / Automatic (V-Cross 4×2)
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Variants: Standard, Premium
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Price: ₹20.34–24.54 lakh
7. Toyota Innova Crysta
Price: From ₹18.65 lakh
The Innova Crysta continues to attract buyers thanks to its reliability, space and long-distance comfort. Its rear-wheel-drive configuration contributes to its excellent load-carrying ability. With only a diesel engine on offer, the MPV is targeted more towards fleet users but remains a solid family mover.
Key highlights:
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2.4L diesel engine
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Manual gearbox
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7- and 8-seater configurations
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Price: ₹18.65–25.36 lakh
6. Mahindra BE 6
Price: From ₹18.90 lakh
The BE 6 is Mahindra’s second born-electric model and shares its electric powertrain with the XEV 9e. Being smaller and lighter, it offers slightly better performance and range. With its futuristic styling and rich feature list, it competes with popular mid-size electric SUVs.
Key highlights:
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Battery: 59kWh / 79kWh
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Range: 556km / 682km (MIDC)
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Variants: Pack One to Pack Three
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Price: ₹18.90–27.65 lakh
5. Mahindra Scorpio Range (Classic & N)
Price: From ₹12.98 lakh
Both the Scorpio Classic and Scorpio N come with rear-wheel drive. Known for their ruggedness, strong engines and commanding road presence, the Scorpio siblings are capable family SUVs. While the Classic feels dated in features, the Scorpio N offers modern equipment but a compromised third row.
Key highlights:
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Scorpio Classic: 2.2L diesel, MT
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Scorpio N: 2.0L petrol / 2.2L diesel, MT & AT
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Price: ₹12.98–23.98 lakh
4. Mahindra Thar & Thar Roxx
Price: From ₹9.99 lakh
The Mahindra Thar (3-door) and the Thar Roxx (5-door) are available in both RWD and 4×4 formats. The 3-door gets the smaller 1.5L diesel for the RWD variant, while the Roxx pairs practicality with strong off-road capability. Ride comfort is not their strongest point, but their appeal as lifestyle SUVs is unmatched.
Key highlights:
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Thar 4×2: 2.0L petrol / 1.5L diesel
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Thar Roxx 4×2: 2.0L petrol / 2.2L diesel
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Price: ₹9.99–20.00 lakh
3. Mahindra Bolero & Bolero Neo
Price: From ₹7.99 lakh
The Bolero duo continues to be among the toughest vehicles built for Indian conditions. Both models are rear-wheel-drive only and use the same 1.5L diesel engine. The Bolero Neo is more modern, while the standard Bolero sticks to its no-nonsense, durable character.
Key highlights:
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1.5L diesel engine
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Manual gearbox
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Price: ₹7.99–10.49 lakh
2. MG Comet EV
Price: From ₹7.49 lakh
The MG Comet is a compact, city-friendly EV with a rear-mounted motor driving the rear wheels. Its cabin feels premium for its size, and the tall-boy layout optimises space. It’s not ideal for highway use, but as an urban commuter, it excels.
Key highlights:
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17.3kWh battery
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Range: 230km
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Variants: Executive to Blackstorm
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Price: ₹7.49–9.99 lakh
1. Maruti Suzuki Eeco
Price: From ₹5.20 lakh
The most affordable RWD car in India, the Maruti Eeco, is basic but extremely practical. Its longitudinal engine layout and rear-wheel-drive setup enhance its load-carrying capability. Despite its taxi image, the Eeco remains a popular choice thanks to low running costs and abundant space.
Key highlights:
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1.2L petrol engine
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Manual gearbox
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Variants: 5-seat, 6-seat, AC & CNG options
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Price: ₹5.20–6.35 lakh
Final Thoughts
If you thought RWD cars were limited to luxury brands and sports cars, this list proves otherwise. Whether you want an electric SUV, a rugged off-roader or the most affordable people mover, there’s an RWD model for nearly every budget in India. These vehicles not only deliver better dynamics but also offer durability and versatility—qualities that continue to keep rear-wheel drive relevant even in 2025.
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