Cheapest Diesel Cars in India - Price, Mileage, Specification

In a nation where every kilometre matters and fuel efficiency is paramount, diesel cars emerge as the unsung heroes of the automotive landscape. India's diverse topography, coupled with long distances between cities, makes diesel cars an appealing choice for the cost-conscious consumer. From compact hatchbacks to efficient SUVs, here is a list of the cheapest diesel cars in India that not only provide economic mileage but also serve as reliable long-term companions.

Top 10 Cheapest Diesel Cars In India

Model	Fuel Type	Body Type	Mileage	Starting Ex-Showroom Price (Diesel)
Tata Altroz	Petrol/Diesel/CNG	Hatchback	23.64 km/l	₹8.80 lakh
Mahindra Bolero Neo	Diesel	SUV	16.70 km/l	₹9.64 lakh
Mahindra Bolero	Diesel	SUV	16.70 km/l	₹9.79 lakh
Kia Sonet	Petrol/Diesel	SUV	19-24.10 km/l	₹9.94 lakh
Mahindra XUV300	Petrol/Diesel	SUV	19.70-20 km/l	₹10.21 lakh
Hyundai Venue	Petrol/Diesel	SUV	22.70 km/l	₹10.58 lakh
Mahindra Thar	Petrol/Diesel	SUV	15.20 km/l	₹10.98 lakh
Tata Nexon	Petrol/Diesel	SUV	23.23-24.08 km/l	₹10.99 lakh
Hyundai Creta	Petrol/Diesel	SUV	18.46-21.35 km/l km/l	₹11.96 lakh
Kia Seltos	Petrol/Diesel	SUV	19.10-20.7 km/l	₹11.99 lakh

1. Tata Altroz

Starting Price (Diesel): ₹8.80 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The Tata Altroz is currently positioned as the cheapest diesel car in India and is offered with a 1.5-litre Revotorq diesel engine that churns out a peak power output of 88.7 bhp and 200 Nm of peak torque. The Altroz also continues to be one of the safest offerings in the market and scored a five-star GNCAP safety rating. An aggressive styling along with a premium cabin makes the Altroz a great choice for those looking for a stylish premium hatch under ₹10 lakh in India. Despite its elegant dashboard layout and multiple engine options, some drawbacks include average fit-finish levels, low ground clearance, and the potential for improved refinement levels

	Tata Altroz
Engine	1.5L Revotorq Diesel
Maximum Power	88.7 bhp (Diesel)
Peak Torque	200 Nm (Diesel)
Transmission	5-Speed Manual
Fuel Mileage	23.64 km/l
Fuel Tank	37L

Key Features:

Projector lights

Sunroof

Automatic climate control

Connected car tech

Voice commands

What’s Good:

• Aggressive and dominating road presence
• Elegant dashboard layout
• Multiple engine options including diesel

What’s Not Good:

• Fit-finish levels are average
• Low ground clearance
• Refinements level could have been better

Check out our collection of Used Tata Altroz Cars in India

2. Mahindra Bolero Neo

Starting Price (Diesel): ₹9.64 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The Mahindra Bolero Neo, priced at ₹9.62 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), presents a pragmatic choice for those prioritising simplicity and efficiency in a compact SUV. Its 1.5-litre mHawk 75 BSVI engine, generating 75 bhp and 210 Nm of torque, ensures reliable performance for daily commutes and weekend getaways. The no-frills approach extends to its interior, featuring a user-friendly touchscreen infotainment system, steering-mounted controls, and cruise control for highway drives. While lacking the refinement of premium SUVs, the Bolero Neo excels in practicality with adaptable driving modes for varied terrains. Despite a modest third row and mediocre performance, its robust build and fuel-efficient diesel powertrain make it a dependable, cost-effective choice for everyday use. 

	Mahindra Bolero Neo
Engine	1.5-litre mHawk 75 BSVI
Maximum Power	75 bhp
Peak Torque	210 Nm
Transmission	5-Speed Manual
Mileage	16.70 km/l
Fuel Tank	60L

Mahindra Bolero Key Features

Bluetooth Infotainment System

Digital Instrument Console

Dual Airbags

ABS

Static Bending Headlights

What’s Good:

• Robust and capable package
• Fuel efficient diesel powertrain
• High ground clearance and compact dimensions make it a practical car for everyday use

What’s Not Good:

• Lacks refinement
• Third row is only suitable for kids
• Mediocre performance

Check Out Our Collection Of Used Mahindra Bolero Neo Cars In India

3. Mahindra Bolero Classic

Starting Price (Diesel): ₹9.79 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The Mahindra Bolero is one of the longest-running models in Mahindra's line-up, well-known for its long-term reliability, performance, affordability, and practicality. With prices starting from just ₹9.80 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the Bolero stands as one of the most budget-friendly diesel cars available in India in 2023. A no-nonsense ladder-on-frame construction, a robust mechanical setup and impressive capabilities make the new Mahindra Bolero a strong contender amongst the more expensive SUVs in the market, especially for rural buyers.

Mahindra Bolero Key Specifications

Key Specifications	Mahindra Bolero
Engine	mHawk 75 BSVI
Maximum Power	75 bhp
Peak Torque	210 Nm
Transmission	5-Speed Manual
Mileage	16.70 km/l
Fuel Tank	60L

Key Features:

Dual-Zone climate control

Steering modes

Seat belt reminders for all occupants

LED Tail lights

Sunroof

What’s Good:

• Reliable and robust construction
• Fuel-efficient diesel engine
• Excellent resale value and after-sales support

What’s Not Good:

• Lacks refinement and multiple essential features
• Safety is still a concern
• Dated interiors

Check Out Our Collection Of Used Mahindra Bolero Cars In India

4. Mahindra XUV300

Starting Price (Diesel): ₹10.21 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

Soon due for a major facelift update, the Mahindra XUV300 is one of the cheapest diesel compact SUVs in India. Under the hood, the new Mahindra XUV300 is offered with a 1.5-litre CRDi diesel engine that delivers 115 bhp and 300 Nm of maximum torque. This diesel engine comes mated to either a 6-speed manual or an AMT gearbox. Along with bold styling and an impressive 5-star GNCAP rating, the XUV300 is also liked for its driving dynamics and comfortable ride quality.  

	Mahindra XUV300
Engine	1.5L CRDI Diesel
Maximum Power	115 bhp (Diesel)
Peak Torque	300 Nm (1.5L D)
Transmission	6-Speed MT, AMT
Fuel Mileage	19.70-20 km/l
Fuel Tank	42L

Key Features:

Dual-Zone climate control

Steering modes

Seat belt reminders for all occupants

LED Tail lights

Sunroof

What’s Good:

• Solid build quality
• Powerful turbo petrol engines for the enthusiasts
• Fuel efficient diesel engine

What’s Not Good:

• Dated looks and basic interiors
• Poor boot space
• After-sales support is not the best

Check out our collection of Used Mahindra XUV300 Cars in India

5. Hyundai Venue

Starting Price (Diesel): ₹10.58 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The Hyundai Venue stands out as a compelling choice in the competitive compact SUV market, offering a feature-loaded and value-for-money package for families seeking a reliable option under ₹15 lakh. With a 1.5L CRDi Diesel engine delivering 115 bhp and 250 Nm of torque, coupled with a fuel-efficient 6-speed manual transmission, it ensures a dynamic yet economical driving experience with a commendable mileage of 22.70 km/l. The Venue distinguishes itself with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including Lane Keeping Assist, Forward Collision Warning, and Avoidance Alert, enhancing safety. While boasting 6 airbags as standard, it falls short of the safety ratings achieved by competitors like Tata Nexon and Mahindra XUV300. Despite these considerations, the Hyundai Venue remains an appealing choice with its versatile powertrain options and feature-rich interior. 

Hyundai Venue Key Specifications

	Hyundai Venue
Engine	1.5L CRDi Diesel
Maximum Power	115 bhp (Diesel)
Peak Torque	250 NM (Diesel)
Transmission	6-Speed Manual (Diesel)
Mileage	22.70 km/l
Fuel Tank	45L

Hyundai Venue Key Safety Features:

6 Airbags

Lead Vehicle Departure Alert and lane-keeping Assist

Forward Collision Warning And Avoidance Alert

Lane Departure Warning

High Beam Assist

What’s Good:

• Feature-rich and VFM package
• Multiple powertrain options
• 6 Airbags as standard

What’s Not Good:

• The safety ratings are not as good as that of Tata Nexon and Mahindra XUV300
• Dynamics could have been better

Check out our collection of used Hyundai cars in India

6. Mahindra Thar

Starting Price (Diesel): ₹10.98 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The Mahindra Thar, a symbol of off-road prowess, boasts a rugged charm with its 1.5L CRDe Diesel and 2.2L CRDi Diesel engine options, delivering 117 bhp and 130 bhp respectively, with a robust peak torque of 300 Nm. Available in both 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions, the Thar ensures a powerful and versatile driving experience, complemented by a commendable fuel efficiency of 15.2 km/l. Packed with features like a 17.8 cm touchscreen infotainment system, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, and a Harman Touchscreen system with a 9-speaker JBL setup, it offers a blend of functionality and entertainment. The Thar's formidable 4x4 capabilities, handsome styling, and strong character make it a standout in the segment. However, it faces criticism for its bumpy ride quality, limited boot space, and some missing features.

Mahindra Thar Key Specifications

	Mahindra Thar
Engine	1.5L CRDe Diesel, 2.2L CRDi Diesel
Maximum Power	117 bhp (Diesel), 130 bhp (Diesel)
Peak Torque	300 Nm (D)
Transmission	6-Speed Manual, 6-Speed Automatic
Fuel Efficiency	15.2 km/l
Fuel Tank	57L

Key Features:

17.8 cm Touchscreen infotainment system

Tyre Pressure Monitoring System

26.03cm Harman Touchscreen infotainment system with 9-speaker JBL system

BlueSense App Connectivity

Remote Keyless Entry and Tool Kit Organiser

What’s Good:

• Capable and rugged 4X4 hardware
• Smooth and powerful engine options
• Handsome styling and strong character

What’s Not Good:

• Bumpy ride quality and poor high-speed dynamics
• Limited boot space
• Missing features, even on the top-spec variants

Check out our collection of Used Mahindra Thar Cars in India

7. Tata Nexon

Starting Price (Diesel): ₹10.99 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The new Tata Nexon SUV, with its striking design and feature-packed offerings, has firmly established itself as a bestseller in the Indian automotive market. A visual delight, the Impact 2.0 design philosophy has bestowed the Nexon with a sleeker profile, highlighted by a sharper front grille, bold projector headlamps with LED DRLs, and redesigned alloy wheels, offering a contemporary and stylish aesthetic. The cabin receives a notable upgrade, featuring premium materials and an enhanced infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The Nexon's powertrain options, including the 1.2L Turbo Revotron Petrol and 1.5L Turbo Revotorq Diesel, provide a spirited yet fuel-efficient driving experience. With a plethora of safety features, including a 5-star safety rating, and competitive pricing, the Tata Nexon remains a top choice for those seeking a well-rounded compact SUV.

Tata Nexon Key Specifications

	Tata Nexon
Engine	1.2L Turbo Revotron Petrol, 1.5L Turbo Revotorq Diesel
Maximum Power	123 bhp (Petrol)124 bhp (Diesel)
Peak Torque	170 Nm (Petrol)260 Nm (Diesel)
Transmission	6-Speed MT/ 6-Speed AMT
Mileage	21.19 km/l (D MT),22.07 km/l (D AMT)
Fuel Tank	44L

Tata Nexon Key Features: 

Digital Two-Spoke Steering Wheel

26.03cm Floating Infotainment System by Harman

26.03cm Digital Instrument Cluster

Connected Car Tech with IRA 2.0

Voice Assisted sunroof

 What’s Good:

• Reliable and efficient powertrain options
• Proven 5-Star Safety Ratings
• Comfortable ride quality and sorted dynamics

What’s Not Good:

• Fit-finish levels are average
• After-sale support still needs improvement
• Long-term reliability is hit or miss

Check out our collection of Used Tata Nexon Cars in India

8. Hyundai Creta

Starting Price (Diesel): ₹11.96 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The Hyundai Creta, a stalwart in Hyundai's lineup, continues to dominate the Indian market with its enduring popularity. Despite facing competition from new entrants, the Creta maintains its status as a best-seller, known for its fuel-efficient 1.5L MPi Petrol and 1.5L U2 CRDi Diesel engines, delivering 113 bhp and 115 bhp respectively, with peak torque at 143.8 Nm for petrol and 250 Nm for diesel. Offering a comfortable ride, refined diesel engine, and impressive resale value, the Creta stands out. Notable features include full LED headlamps, an electric sunroof, ventilated front seats, and connected car tech. However, concerns arise due to the absence of turbo petrol options, average petrol motor efficiency, and the need for enhanced safety features. 

Hyundai Creta Key Specifications

	Hyundai Creta
Engine	1.5L MPi Petrol, 1.5L U2 CRDi Diesel
Maximum Power	113 bhp (1.5L P)115 bhp (1.5L D)
Peak Torque	143.8 Nm (Petrol)250 Nm (Diesel)
Transmission	6-Speed MT, IVT (1.5L P)6-Speed MT, 6-Speed AT (1.5L D)
Mileage	16.76-21.35 km/l
Fuel Tank	50L

Hyundai Creta Key Features: 

Full LED headlamps with LED DRLs

Electric Sunroof

Ventilated Front Seats

Connected Car Tech

Infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

 What’s Good:

• Fuel-efficient and refined diesel engine
• Comfortable ride quality
• Excellent resale value

What’s Not Good:

• No turbo petrol engine options
• Not so frugal petrol motor
• Safety levels could have been better

Check out our collection of Used Hyundai Creta Cars in India

9. Kia Seltos

Starting Price: ₹10.90 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The new Kia Seltos stands as a compelling choice in the SUV segment, offering a harmonious blend of features, performance, and stylish exterior aesthetics. Priced attractively from ₹10.90 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), it remains one of the most affordable SUVs in India and is also offered with LEVEL 2 ADAS on higher trims. The Seltos impresses with advanced ADAS features, such as Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go, and Blind Spot Collision Warning. Its engine options, including the 1.5L Gamma Petrol, 1.5L Gamma Turbocharged Petrol, and 1.5L U2 CRDi Diesel, provide a diverse range of power and efficiency. Noteworthy safety features like Front Collision Warning and Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and a 360-degree Camera contribute to its appeal. Despite its bold styling and spacious cabin, concerns arise with the Seltos' safety scores and the pricing of higher variants.

Kia Seltos Key Specifications

	Kia Seltos
Engine	1.5L Gamma Petrol,1.5L Gamma Turbocharged Petrol,1.5L U2 CRDi Diesel
Maximum Power	115 bhp (1.5L P)160 bhp (1.5L TP)116 Nm (Diesel)
Peak Torque	144 Nm (1.5L P)253 Nm (1.5L TP)250 Nm (Diesel)
Transmission	6-Speed Manual (1.5L P)7-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic (1.5L TP)6-Speed Automatic (Diesel)
Mileage	16.5-21.0 km/l
Fuel Tank	50L

Kia Seltos Key Safety Features

Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go

Blind Spot Collision Warning

Front Collision Warning and Avoidance Assist

Lane Keeping Assist

360-Degree Camera

What’s Good:

• Bold and attractive exterior styling
• Comfortable and spacious cabin
• Multiple powertrain options including a powerful turbo petrol and fuel-efficient diesel

What’s Not Good:

• Poor safety scores
• Higher variants are too expensive for what they offer

Check out our collection of Used Kia Seltos Cars in India

The Bottom Line

As we navigate through the lineup of the top 10 cheapest diesel cars in India, it becomes evident that diesel-powered vehicles remain integral to the preferences of the discerning Indian consumer. In a landscape where every kilometre matters, the robust torque, enhanced fuel efficiency, and long-term durability offered by diesel engines continue to make them unsung heroes of our automotive narrative. From the economical Tata Altroz to the rugged Mahindra Thar and the feature-rich Kia Seltos, these diesel cars cater to diverse preferences while addressing the nation's varied topography.

Despite the evolving dynamics of the automotive industry, diesel cars persist as steadfast companions for those who prioritise both cost-conscious commuting and long-distance travel. As technological advancements refine diesel engines, offering cleaner and more fuel-efficient options, their relevance in the Indian market remains unwavering. The allure of diesel-powered vehicles endures, seamlessly blending affordability, reliability, and efficiency, making them an enduring choice for the astute Indian buyer.

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