4X4 cars in India under 20 lakh — Most affordable picks

Whether you’re a road challenger who enjoys off-roading or you live in an area with harsher conditions, your ride should match the kind of terrain you face. For such needs, 4X4 (4WD) models offer more stability, better traction, and improved control when compared to AWD or RWD. In India, you will find quite a few options in 4WD cars, but choosing the right 4WD model under your budget often takes a fair amount of searching and comparing. To make it easier, I’ve listed below a detailed look at some of the most affordable 4X4 cars in India, under your budget of Rs 20 lakh.

Affordable 4X4 cars in India under 20 lakh 

Maruti Jimny

Maruti Jimny was launched in India in 2023 and, so far, hasn’t received any major update or facelift. At present, it’s the only model in the brand’s lineup that comes with a 4WD drivetrain. When we talk about the most affordable 4X4 cars in India, the Jimny stands out as one of the key options.

It is available in two variants—Zeta and Alpha—with prices starting at Rs 12.75 lakh and going up to Rs 14.80 lakh. Under the hood, it gets a 1.5-litre K15B engine with idle start-stop tech. This engine delivers 104.8PS of power and 134.2Nm of torque. Buyers can choose between a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic, both offered with ALLGRIP Pro, which includes a low-range transfer gear as standard. As for mileage, the manual version is claimed to deliver 16.94 km/l, while the automatic version has a claimed mileage of 16.39 km/l.

Mahindra 3-door Thar

Mahindra Thar holds on to the original Thar legacy from Mahindra. It is available in a single LX variant with a hard top. Under the hood, it comes with both petrol and diesel engine options and is offered in 2WD as well as 4WD versions. If you're particularly looking at the Thar 4WD, its price ranges between Rs 15.20 lakh and Rs 17.62 lakh. 

The 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine produces 132PS of power and 300Nm of torque. On the other hand, the 2.0-litre mStallion turbo petrol engine delivers 152PS and 300Nm of torque. Both engine options are available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. The Thar also comes with a manual shift part-time 4WD system that includes high and low reduction gear.

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the diesel manual and automatic variants have a claimed mileage of 15.20 kmpl. Meanwhile, the turbo petrol manual and automatic versions are claimed to offer 12.40 kmpl.

Force Gurkha

Force Gurkha is available in both 3-door and 5-door versions, priced at Rs 16.75 lakh and Rs 18 lakh, respectively. This 4WD model is powered by a 2.6-litre, 4-cylinder diesel engine and comes only with a 5-speed manual transmission. The engine, which is based on Mercedes’ common rail tech, produces 140PS of power and 320Nm of torque. As per official figures, the claimed mileage of the Gurkha stands at 15 kmpl.

Mahindra Scorpio N

Mahindra Scorpio N is priced between Rs 13.99 lakh and Rs 24.95 lakh. Under the budget of Rs 20 lakh, the only variant that comes with a 4X4 drivetrain is the Scorpio N Z4, which is priced at Rs 18.35 lakh. While there are other variants of this model with 4WD configuration, those go beyond this price range.

The Scorpio Z4 4WD is powered by a 2.2-litre diesel engine paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox. It produces 175PS of power and 370Nm of torque. In terms of fuel efficiency, the diesel manual variant has a claimed mileage of 15.94 kmpl.

Mahindra Thar Roxx

Mahindra Thar Roxx is the new big thing in the Mahindra lineup. It is offered in seven variants—MX1, MX3, AX3L, MX5, AX5L, and AX7L. At present, the Roxx has gained good attention and sits among the most affordable 4WD models in 2025, especially for those looking at serious off-road capability under a Rs 20 lakh budget.

Out of all the variants, the Thar Roxx MX5 stands out for buyers looking for budget and 4WD together. It comes with a 2.2-litre diesel engine paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox. This engine delivers 152PS of peak power and 380Nm of torque, which is solid for different driving needs, especially rough terrains.

The Thar Roxx MX5 MT 4WD is priced at Rs 19.39 lakh. It also comes with a good list of useful features. As for fuel efficiency, the company claims it returns 15.2 kmpl.

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