Top 5 4×4 SUVs Under Rs 20 Lakh: Looking for a proper 4×4 SUV that won’t break the bank? These five models under Rs 20 lakh offer genuine off-road capability without the premium price tag.
Let’s be honest – most “SUVs” on Indian roads today are just tall hatchbacks in disguise. Finding a genuine 4×4 that doesn’t cost more than a small flat in Mumbai? That’s the real challenge. But here’s the thing: with everyone suddenly wanting to drive to Spiti Valley or tackle those monsoon-flooded roads, there’s actually a decent bunch of proper 4×4s that won’t leave your wallet crying. These five are the ones that’ll actually get you out of trouble when the going gets tough.
Maruti Suzuki Jimny (Rs 12.75 – 14.80 lakh)
Remember when Maruti used to make the Gypsy? Well, the Jimny is like that car’s cool Japanese cousin who went to engineering school. This little box on wheels might look like a toy, but don’t let appearances fool you – it’s got the heart of a mountain climber.
The 1.5-litre petrol engine isn’t going to win any drag races, but 105 horses are plenty when you’re crawling over rocks. And that part-time 4WD system? It’s the real deal, not some computer-controlled nonsense. Sure, your tall friends will hate the back seat, but when you’re the only one making it up that sketchy hill road while others are calling for help, you’ll have the last laugh.
Mahindra Thar (Rs 15.20 – 17.62 lakh for 4WD variants)
Ah, the Thar – India’s answer to the Jeep Wrangler, except it actually makes financial sense. This thing has become such a social media darling that half the people buying it probably think 4WD stands for “Four Wheel Drive-to-the-mall.” But jokes aside, the Thar has earned its reputation the hard way.
Whether you pick the 2.0-litre turbo-petrol (for those who like their adventures with a soundtrack) or the 2.2-litre diesel (for the sensible folks), you’re getting a proper low-range transfer case. The kind that makes mechanical clicking sounds when you engage it, not some silent electronic wizardry. It’s like having a Swiss Army knife, but for roads that aren’t really roads.
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Force Gurkha (Rs 16.75 – 18.00 lakh)
Here’s the underdog that nobody talks about at dinner parties, but probably should. The Gurkha is like that reliable friend who doesn’t post much on Instagram but is always there when you need help moving furniture – except the furniture weighs two tons and is stuck in a riverbed.
That Mercedes-sourced 2.6-litre diesel engine is a gem. It’s not the most refined thing on four wheels, but it’s built like a tank and sounds like one too. The 5-door version makes sense if you’ve got kids who complain about everything, while the 3-door is perfect for those who think comfort is overrated anyway.
Mahindra Scorpio N Z4 4WD (Rs 18.35 lakh)
Now we’re talking serious money, but also serious capability. The Scorpio N is what happens when Mahindra decides to build something that can handle both the school pickup and the weekend mountain expedition without breaking a sweat.
That 2.2-litre diesel with 175 PS is properly quick – quick enough to make you forget you’re driving something that can climb walls. The electronic differential lock is the kind of feature that sounds boring until you’re stuck in sand and suddenly become very grateful for German engineering. It’s the grown-up choice, basically.
Mahindra Thar Roxx (From Rs 12.99 lakh)
The newest kid on the block, and honestly, it feels like Mahindra finally figured out how to make the Thar work for people who have friends. Same mechanical bits as the regular Thar, but with doors that don’t require yoga training to access the back seat.
It’s still early days, but the Roxx seems to hit that sweet spot between “I can take this anywhere” and “my mother-in-law won’t complain about getting in.” The pricing is aggressive too – Mahindra clearly wants to own this space.
So, Which One’s for You?
Look, buying a 4×4 in India is still a bit of a niche thing. Most people will never use the capability, and that’s fine. But if you’re reading this, chances are you’re not most people. Maybe you live somewhere where the roads disappear during monsoons, or perhaps you’ve caught the overlanding bug from too many YouTube videos.
Each of these five serves a different master. The Jimny is for the minimalists who think less is more. The Thar is for those who want to join the club. The Gurkha is for people who actually work for a living. The Scorpio N is the family compromise. And the Thar Roxx? It’s the new kid trying to be everything to everyone.
Whatever you choose, just remember – with great 4×4 capability comes great responsibility. And terrible fuel economy. But mostly responsibility.