If you’re scrolling through endless car catalogs, the first question that hits you is: how much will this SUV actually cost? In India, SUV pricing can feel like a maze, with discounts, taxes, and dealer fees changing the sticker price every few weeks. This guide cuts through the noise, giving you the latest price ranges, what’s included in the cost, and which models give you the most bang for your buck.
Indian SUVs fall into three main buckets – sub‑compact, compact, and mid‑size. Sub‑compact SUVs such as the Tata Nexon or Kia Sonet typically start between ₹8 lakh and ₹12 lakh on‑road. Compact SUVs like the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, and Mahindra XUV300 sit in the ₹10 lakh to ₹15 lakh zone. Once you move to mid‑size options – think Kia Seltos top trims, Toyota Fortuner, or MG Gloster – prices climb to ₹15 lakh up to ₹30+ lakh, depending on engine and features.
These numbers are the on‑road price, which already bundles GST, insurance, and registration. If you’re eyeing a dealer discount, expect about 1‑2% off the listed amount, but keep an eye on dealership‑specific offers – they can shave off a few lakhs during festive seasons.
First, decide what you truly need. If city commuting and occasional highway runs are your norm, a sub‑compact SUV gives you higher fuel efficiency and easier parking for less money. Look for models that offer a 1.0‑litre turbo engine – they often balance power and mileage nicely.
Second, compare the feature list versus the price jump. Many manufacturers lock premium features like touchscreen infotainment, climate control, and safety tech (ABS, airbags, ESC) behind higher trim levels. Sometimes a lower‑trim model with a few after‑market upgrades can be cheaper than a top‑trim rival.
Third, factor in ownership cost. A bit pricier upfront may save you in fuel, maintenance, or resale value. For example, a diesel variant of a mid‑size SUV could cost ₹2‑3 lakh more, but if you drive over 15,000 km a year, the fuel savings pay off over time.
Finally, check loan rates and financing offers. Banks often give lower interest rates on cars priced under ₹15 lakh. If your budget is tight, a smaller SUV with a modest down‑payment can keep monthly EMIs manageable.
Bottom line: Don’t get dazzled by flashy colors or extra chrome. Stick to your budget range, match the engine size to your mileage needs, and weigh the cost of ownership. With the right data, you’ll drive away with an SUV that fits both your lifestyle and your wallet.
Mahindra has slashed ex-showroom prices across its ICE SUVs by up to Rs 1.56 lakh after the GST Council’s GST 2.0 reset. Effective September 6, 2025, smaller vehicles shift to 18% GST and larger ones face a flat 40% rate. Big winners include the XUV3XO diesel (Rs 1.56 lakh), Scorpio N (Rs 1.45 lakh) and XUV700 (Rs 1.43 lakh). The move lands right before the festive season and applies across variants.