At the moment, off-roading isn’t very popular in India but is slowly but steadily making a space for itself in the hearts of car aficionados. With this, even the car manufacturers have stopped from shying away from offering AWD or 4WD mechanicals in their SUVs. Here is our list of best off-road cars in India in both new and used markets.
The Renault Duster is a capable SUV that comes with powerful engine options. Moreover, both the petrol and Diesel engine choices are even available with an optional automatic transmission, while the diesel version can be even bought with a capable AWD system. You also get decent dynamics and a butch styling.
Mahindra Thar is one of the most iconic models available in the country. It looks handsome comes with a highly capable 4×4 hardware, which makes it a favourite of of not only people who want a high street presence but also of the off-roading enthusiasts.
The Mahindra XUV500 might be getting a bit too long in the tooth now, but is definitely a good option for those who need a sufficiently capable off-road vehicle that comes with an optional AWD system for the diesel engine variant. The XUV500 makes for a good buy in both used and new car markets.
The Mahindra Scorpio is among the most recognised SUVs around and comes with an impressive design, powerful 2.2-litre diesel engine and a sufficiently capable AWD system that makes it a pretty good option for off-roading. It can also seat up to seven and is the best option in its price segment.
The Jeep Compass comes with a Fiat-sourced 2.0-litre diesel engine that produces 170 bhp and 350 Nm. Combined with a capable 4WD system, the Compass is quite a mountain goat, especially if you pick up the highly capable Trailhawk variant. Also, the Compass has a pretty upmarket cabin that is sufficiently feature-laden.
The Toyota Fortuner enjoys a cult following in India due to its butch looks, great ride comfort, highly reliable powertrains and a feature-laden cabin. But what makes it appear on our latest list is the fact that the Fortuner comes with a solid 4WD system that makes the Fortuner immensely capable off the road.
The Ford Endeavour is the top-spec Ford SUV in India. The rugged SUV boasts a very muscular stance and hence, enjoys a strong road presence. It is very capable of handling both on-road and off-road tasks due to its hugely capable 4WD system with multi-terrain options. The Endeavour comes feature-packed with several top-notch safety and comfort-enhancing features and is among the best SUVs around.
While the Tata Hexa hasn’t sold well in the Indian market, it’s a pretty well-priced off-roader that gets terrain response control along with an AWD system. The SUV also offers a spacious cabin, a powerful engine, optional AWD and even a rugged look. The Borg Warner-sourced All Wheel Drive mechanicals make this SUV a great option for off-road duties.
Another great option on our list is the Honda CR-V, a premium SUV that comes with AWD system. The CR-V isn’t as capable off the road as, say, the Toyota Fortuner but it offers the kind of ride comfort and cabin ambience that is generally found on models from the likes of Audi, which makes it a great buy for those who need a premium SUV that can do the occasional off-roading duty.
Isuzu is a hugely capable pick-up truck that comes with a great 4×4 system. It’s powered by a 2.5-litre turbocharged diesel engine that generates a maximum power of 134 hp and a peak torque of 320Nm. Moreover, the V-Cross looks stunning overall and has massive road presence due to its butch looks and large dimensions.
Isuzu D-Max V-Cross New Car Prices in Popular Cities
Do you wish to buy a used off-road car in India? We, at CARS24, provide a range of second-hand cars to choose from. We also offer free RC transfer, while our free second hand car value calculator can help you find out the right resale value of any second-hand car on sale in the country. You can even use our services to sell your used car and get the best price for it.