Top 10 Most Affordable Diesel Cars in India (2025)

Even though the diesel car segment in India has shrunk over the last few years due to stricter emission norms, there’s still a solid lineup of budget-friendly diesel vehicles for those who prefer strong torque and better fuel efficiency. Brands like Mahindra, Tata, Hyundai, and Kia continue to keep diesel alive with a mix of hatchbacks, SUVs, and MPVs.

Here’s a look at the 10 most affordable diesel cars in India in 2025, ranked from the most expensive to the cheapest, along with their key specifications, features, and pricing.

10. Tata Curvv Diesel

Price: ₹11.10 lakh – ₹18.85 lakh (ex-showroom)

The all-new Tata Curvv stands out with its futuristic coupe-SUV silhouette. Powering it is a 1.5-litre diesel engine producing 118 hp and 260 Nm, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DCT automatic — a rare combo in this segment. While the diesel motor is slightly vocal at high revs, its smooth torque delivery and the DCT’s quick shifts make it a strong performer in urban and highway use alike.

9. Kia Syros Diesel

Price: ₹10.13 lakh – ₹15.94 lakh

Positioned above the Sonet, the Kia Syros brings premium appeal to the compact SUV space. It uses the trusted 1.5-litre, 116 hp/250 Nm diesel engine shared with the Sonet and Hyundai Venue, available with 6-speed manual or automatic options. Standout features include ventilated and reclining rear seats — segment-first comforts that enhance rear-seat experience.

8. Mahindra Thar Diesel

Price: ₹9.99 lakh – ₹16.99 lakh

The Mahindra Thar remains India’s most affordable off-roader, now offered with two diesel engines — a 1.5-litre (118 hp/300 Nm) for the RWD variant and a 2.2-litre (132 hp/300 Nm) for the 4WD model. A 6-speed manual is standard, with a 6-speed torque converter automatic available on the 4WD. Despite its rugged nature, the Thar also includes modern conveniences such as a 10.25-inch touchscreen, rear AC vents, and a reverse camera, making it both fun and functional.

7. Hyundai Venue Diesel

Price: ₹9.72 lakh – ₹12.18 lakh

The Hyundai Venue continues to be a popular compact SUV choice. Its 1.5-litre diesel engine delivers 115 hp and 250 Nm, paired exclusively with a 6-speed manual gearbox. The engine is smooth and efficient for daily driving, though it runs out of breath at higher RPMs. The Venue’s strong after-sales network and feature-rich cabin make it one of the most dependable diesel SUVs under ₹12 lakh.

6. Tata Nexon Diesel

Price: ₹9.01 lakh – ₹14.05 lakh

The Tata Nexon remains a bestseller in the sub-compact SUV category. Its 1.5-litre diesel engine produces 115 hp and 260 Nm, available with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed AMT. With its punchy mid-range and excellent driveability, the diesel variant is arguably the most balanced and enjoyable version of the Nexon lineup.

5. Kia Sonet Diesel

Price: ₹8.98 lakh – ₹14.09 lakh

The Kia Sonet is one of the most feature-packed SUVs under ₹15 lakh. It shares its 1.5-litre diesel engine with the Syros and Venue, producing 116 hp and 250 Nm, coupled with manual or automatic transmission options. The diesel-automatic combo in particular is one of the smoothest and most refined in this class, making it a top pick for frequent highway drivers.

4. Mahindra XUV 3XO Diesel

Price: ₹8.95 lakh – ₹13.43 lakh

The Mahindra XUV 3XO (successor to the XUV300) offers a class-leading 300 Nm of torque from its 1.5-litre diesel engine, paired with a 6-speed manual or AMT. The AMT starts at ₹10.71 lakh — making it the most affordable diesel automatic car in India. With strong low-end torque, refined performance, and plenty of safety features, the XUV 3XO hits a sweet spot for diesel enthusiasts.

3. Mahindra Bolero Neo Diesel

Price: ₹8.49 lakh – ₹9.99 lakh

The Bolero Neo blends rugged underpinnings with compact SUV practicality. Powered by a 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine making 100 hp and 260 Nm, it’s mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. Built on a ladder-frame chassis with rear-wheel drive, the Bolero Neo delivers a tough-vehicle experience and even offers a 7-seat layout, ideal for large families on a budget.

2. Tata Altroz Diesel

Price: ₹8.10 lakh – ₹10.17 lakh

India’s only diesel hatchback, the Tata Altroz features a 1.5-litre diesel engine producing 90 hp and 200 Nm, paired with a 5-speed manual. The motor offers good drivability and strong mid-range performance, though it’s a bit noisy. With its solid build quality, premium design, and a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating, the Altroz stands out as the safest and most efficient diesel hatchback in the market.

1. Mahindra Bolero Diesel

Price: ₹7.99 lakh – ₹9.69 lakh

Topping the list as the most affordable diesel car in India, the iconic Mahindra Bolero continues to be a trusted workhorse for both urban and rural buyers. Its 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder diesel engine generates 76 hp and 210 Nm, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. Built on a rugged ladder-frame chassis, the Bolero offers unmatched durability and go-anywhere capability, though it’s not the most refined.

Summary: Top 10 Cheapest Diesel Cars in India (2025)

Final Thoughts

While diesel options are dwindling, there are still plenty of strong contenders for those who value torque, long-range efficiency, and durability. The Mahindra Bolero remains the most affordable, while the Tata Curvv brings diesel power to a futuristic SUV-coupe package. Whether you’re looking for practicality, ruggedness, or refinement — India’s diesel segment still offers something for everyone.

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