Rear-wheel-drive (RWD) cars are uncommon in India’s mass-market segment, as front-wheel-drive (FWD) layouts are cheaper to manufacture and offer better fuel efficiency. However, for enthusiasts who appreciate the dynamics of RWD vehicles, there are still some budget-friendly options available. Here’s a look at the 10 most affordable RWD cars and SUVs currently on sale in India.
10. Toyota Fortuner – From ₹35.37 lakh
The Toyota Fortuner is a rugged and reliable full-size SUV that barely makes this list in terms of affordability. It is available with both petrol and diesel engines, with manual and automatic transmission options in the diesel variant. The Fortuner’s tough build, spacious interiors, and strong road presence make it a popular choice, though its cabin design lacks a premium touch compared to competitors.
🔹 Engine Options: 2.7L Petrol / 2.8L Diesel
🔹 Transmission: AT (Petrol) | MT & AT (Diesel)
🔹 Price Range: ₹35.37 – ₹44.11 lakh
9. Mahindra XUV.e9 – From ₹21.90 lakh
Mahindra’s XUV.e9 is a stylish electric coupe-SUV that comes with a rear-wheel-drive setup as standard. It is offered with two battery pack options—a 59kWh unit and a larger 79kWh pack, which delivers an impressive 656 km range (MIDC). The SUV also boasts a tech-laden interior and strong performance, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in just 6.8 seconds with the bigger battery.
🔹 Battery Options: 59kWh / 79kWh
🔹 Range: 542 km / 656 km
🔹 Price Range: ₹21.90 – ₹30.50 lakh
8. Isuzu D-Max Hi-Lander – From ₹21.49 lakh
A tough and versatile pickup truck, the Isuzu D-Max Hi-Lander is built for both work and leisure. It comes with a 1.9L diesel engine and a manual transmission, making it one of the most affordable RWD utility vehicles in India. The Hi-Lander is great for off-road adventures but feels bulky in city traffic and lacks some modern features.
🔹 Engine: 1.9L Diesel
🔹 Transmission: MT
🔹 Price Range: ₹21.49 – ₹21.79 lakh
7. Toyota Innova Crysta – From ₹19.99 lakh
The Toyota Innova Crysta remains a best-seller despite being positioned more toward fleet operators after the launch of the Hycross. It offers seven- and eight-seater configurations, spacious interiors, and a reliable diesel engine. However, the heavy steering makes it less convenient for city driving.
🔹 Engine: 2.4L Diesel
🔹 Transmission: MT
🔹 Price Range: ₹19.99 – ₹26.82 lakh
6. Mahindra BE.06 – From ₹18.90 lakh
The Mahindra BE.06 is a futuristic-looking electric SUV that shares its platform with the XUV.e9. It delivers strong performance, especially in its top-spec Pack Three variant, which gets a 79kWh battery and a 286hp motor. The BE.06 offers a high-tech cabin and impressive range, but its infotainment system could be more user-friendly.
🔹 Battery Options: 59kWh / 79kWh
🔹 Range: 556 km / 682 km
🔹 Price Range: ₹18.90 – ₹26.90 lakh
5. Mahindra Scorpio N & Scorpio Classic – From ₹13.62 lakh
Both the Scorpio N and Scorpio Classic offer an RWD layout as standard and are known for their powerful engines and rugged durability. While the Scorpio N comes with petrol and diesel options, the Classic sticks to diesel only. The Scorpio N’s third-row seats are a bit cramped, while the Classic lacks modern features.
🔹 Engines: 2.2L Diesel (Classic) | 2.0L Petrol / 2.2L Diesel (Scorpio N)
🔹 Transmission: MT & AT (Scorpio N) | MT (Classic)
🔹 Price Range: ₹13.62 – ₹22.76 lakh
4. Mahindra Thar & Thar Roxx – From ₹11.50 lakh
The Mahindra Thar 3-door and Thar Roxx 5-door come in both RWD and 4×4 variants. While the 3-door model gets a smaller 1.5L diesel engine, the Roxx uses the 2.2L diesel. These SUVs are built for adventure, but the 3-door Thar has a stiff ride, and the Roxx lacks the refinement of monocoque rivals.
🔹 Engines: 1.5L Diesel / 2.0L Petrol (Thar) | 2.0L Petrol / 2.2L Diesel (Roxx)
🔹 Transmission: MT & AT
🔹 Price Range: ₹11.50 – ₹20.99 lakh
3. Mahindra Bolero & Bolero Neo – From ₹9.79 lakh
The Mahindra Bolero and Bolero Neo are known for their durability and low maintenance costs. They are rear-wheel-drive-only, making them ideal for rough roads. The Bolero feels dated, while the Neo lacks modern features seen in today’s compact SUVs. However, both offer great reliability and affordability.
🔹 Engine: 1.5L Diesel
🔹 Transmission: MT
🔹 Price Range: ₹9.79 – ₹12.15 lakh
2. MG Comet EV – From ₹7 lakh
The MG Comet EV is a compact, city-friendly electric car with a rear-mounted motor producing 42hp. While it’s efficient and easy to drive, the Comet struggles on highways and has a firm ride quality. MG also launched a Blackstorm Edition with a sportier look.
🔹 Battery: 17.3kWh
🔹 Range: 230 km
🔹 Price Range: ₹7.00 – ₹9.84 lakh
1. Maruti Suzuki Eeco – From ₹5.44 lakh
India’s most affordable RWD car, the Maruti Eeco, may be basic and utilitarian, but it excels in affordability, low maintenance, and cargo space. Powered by a 1.2L petrol engine, the Eeco is popular for commercial use, though its design and features remain minimalistic.
- Engine: 1.2L Petrol
- Transmission: MT
- Price Range: ₹5.44 – ₹6.70 lakh
Conclusion
While rear-wheel-drive cars are rare in India’s mainstream market, options still exist across various price brackets. Whether you’re looking for an adventure-ready SUV, a practical MPV, or an affordable city car, this list has something for everyone.
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