Best 4×4 SUVs under ₹20 lakh: If you are considering purchasing an SUV that can handle city streets as well as mountainous terrain, rugged paths, and challenging off-road tracks, then a 4×4 SUV could be the right choice for you. The Indian market offers several 4×4 SUVs—ranging from the Maruti Suzuki Jimny to the Mahindra Thar Roxx—that are renowned for their robust performance and off-roading capabilities. Let’s take a look at the pricing, engines, and features of five powerful 4×4 SUVs: the Maruti Suzuki Jimny, Mahindra Thar, Force Gurkha, Scorpio-N, and Thar Roxx.
Maruti Suzuki Jimny
The Maruti Suzuki Jimny is an excellent option for those who want to experience authentic off-roading on a modest budget. With a starting price of ₹12.59 lakh (ex-showroom), it stands out as the most affordable SUV in this category. It is powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that produces 103 PS of power and 134 Nm of torque. It is available with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed torque converter automatic gearbox.
The Jimny features a ladder-frame chassis, rigid axles, 210 mm of ground clearance, and the ALLGRIP PRO 4×4 system. It also includes low-range gearing, which provides superior control when navigating difficult terrain.
Mahindra Thar (OG)
The Mahindra Thar (OG) is likely to appeal to those who crave the quintessential off-road SUV experience. Its 4×4 variant starts at an ex-showroom price of ₹15.60 lakh. Its robust design, high ground clearance, and powerful engine make it an attractive option for driving on rough terrain.
It comes with a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine that delivers up to 162 PS of power, while the 2.2-litre diesel engine produces up to 152 PS. Depending on the variant, it offers a choice between manual and automatic gearboxes. This Thar features a ground clearance of 232 mm and a 4×4 system with low-range gearing. As it is a three-door vehicle, accessing the rear seats is somewhat more difficult than in a five-door SUV.
Force Gurkha
The Force Gurkha is designed for those who wish to drive not just on rough roads but also on more challenging terrain. Its starting ex-showroom price is ₹16.52 lakh. This SUV is available in both three-door and five-door configurations. It is powered by a 2.6-litre diesel engine that produces approximately 140 PS of power and 320 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox.
Its standout features include a low-range transfer case and manually locking front and rear differentials. The Gurkha offers a ground clearance of 233 mm, a factory-fitted snorkel, and, according to the company, a water-wading capability of up to 700 mm.
Mahindra Scorpio-N
If you are looking for an SUV that is suitable for long journeys with your family and is also capable of off-roading when needed, the Mahindra Scorpio-N is a great option. The ex-showroom price for its Z4 Diesel 4WD MT variant is ₹18.02 lakh. It is equipped with a 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine that delivers up to 175 PS of power and 400 Nm of torque. This variant comes with a 6-speed manual gearbox. Its spacious cabin, the option for three-row seating, and a design well-suited for long-distance travel make it an excellent choice for families.
The Scorpio-N’s selectable 4×4 system helps improve traction on slippery roads and rough terrain. However, given its larger size compared to the Jimny or the three-door Thar, handling it on off-road tracks can be somewhat challenging. Additionally, the automatic 4×4 variants come at a higher price point.
Mahindra Thar Roxx
The Mahindra Thar Roxx is an intriguing option for those who desire the off-roading experience of a Thar but also require a more spacious cabin and better comfort for rear-seat passengers. The starting ex-showroom price for its 4×4 variant is ₹19.56 lakh.
It is powered by a 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine, which delivers 175 PS of power and up to 370 Nm of torque. The entry-level 4×4 option is equipped with a manual gearbox. Furthermore, it includes features such as a low-range transfer case, terrain modes, and—in select variants—an electronic rear differential lock. It is also worth noting that the starting price for the 4×4 version is close to ₹20 lakh, with higher-end variants exceeding this budget.