Top 5 4×4 SUVs Under Rs. 20 Lakh in India: Jimny to Thar Roxx
Buyers in India can choose from several SUVs with proper four-wheel-drive systems for under Rs. 20 lakh. These models offer different combinations of engine performance, cabin space and off-road hardware.
The Maruti Suzuki Jimny is the most affordable option, while the Mahindra Thar and Force Gurkha focus on rugged off-road ability. Buyers who need more space can consider the Mahindra Scorpio-N and five-door Thar Roxx.
However, not every variant of these SUVs offers four-wheel drive. Buyers must check the specific engine, gearbox and variant before booking. Here are five affordable 4×4 SUVs, their prices and available powertrain options.
1. Maruti Suzuki Jimny
The Maruti Suzuki Jimny is the most affordable SUV on this list, with prices starting at Rs. 12.59 lakh, ex-showroom. It uses a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that produces 103 PS and 134 Nm of torque.
Buyers can choose a five-speed manual or a four-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox. Every Jimny variant comes with Maruti Suzuki’s ALLGRIP PRO 4×4 system and low-range gearing.
The SUV also gets a ladder-frame chassis, rigid axles and 210mm of ground clearance. Its compact dimensions help it navigate narrow trails, while the five-door layout offers easier rear-seat access. The Jimny suits buyers who want a smaller, trail-ready SUV.
2. Mahindra Thar
The three-door Mahindra Thar offers petrol and diesel engine options with a dedicated four-wheel-drive system. Its 4×4 range starts at Rs. 15.60 lakh, ex-showroom, for the petrol manual variant.
The 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine produces up to 162 PS, while the 2.2-litre diesel engine delivers up to 152 PS. Depending on the variant, Mahindra offers six-speed manual and automatic gearboxes.
The Thar’s 4×4 system includes low-range gearing to help tackle steep climbs, muddy tracks and uneven surfaces. It also offers 232mm of ground clearance.
Its three-door layout and rugged hardware suit off-road enthusiasts, although rear-seat access is less convenient than in five-door SUVs.
3. Force Gurkha
The Force Gurkha is designed for buyers who want a dedicated off-roader with hardware for challenging trails. Its price starts at around Rs. 16.52 lakh, ex-showroom, according to the source article.
Both the three-door and five-door versions use a 2.6-litre diesel engine that produces around 140 PS and 320 Nm of torque. A five-speed manual gearbox sends power to all four wheels.
The Gurkha also gets low-range gearing and manually locking front and rear differentials. Its 233mm ground clearance and factory-fitted snorkel support off-road driving. Buyers can choose the shorter three-door version or the roomier five-door model.
4. Mahindra Scorpio-N
The Mahindra Scorpio-N is a suitable choice for buyers who want a spacious SUV with four-wheel-drive capability. Its entry-level Z4 Diesel 4WD manual variant costs Rs. 18.02 lakh, ex-showroom.
This version uses a 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine that produces up to 175 PS and 400 Nm of torque. A six-speed manual gearbox comes with this entry-level 4×4 variant. The selectable four-wheel-drive system helps the SUV maintain traction on slippery roads and rough surfaces.
The Scorpio-N also offers a spacious cabin and available three-row seating. Its larger body makes it less convenient on narrow trails than compact off-roaders such as the Jimny.
5. Mahindra Thar Roxx
The five-door Mahindra Thar Roxx combines off-road capability with additional space for passengers. Its 4×4 range starts at Rs. 19.56 lakh, ex-showroom, for the MX5 diesel manual variant. This version uses a 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine that produces up to 175 PS and 370 Nm of torque. A six-speed manual gearbox sends power to all four wheels.
The Thar Roxx also gets low-range gearing, terrain modes and an electronic locking rear differential on applicable variants. Its five-door body makes rear-seat access easier than in the standard Thar.
However, only selected diesel variants offer 4×4, and higher versions can exceed the Rs. 20 lakh budget.
Note: All prices mentioned are ex-showroom and may vary with updates, location and variant availability. The Thar Roxx and Scorpio-N prices above refer specifically to their entry-level 4×4 variants, not their entire model ranges.
