Most affordable 4x4 SUVs in India: Jimny, Scorpio N and more

Thinking about buying an affordable 4x4 SUV? You now have plenty of choices in India. Many of them come with a dedicated 4x4 system, low-range gearing and locking differentials. If you want to try off-road trails, here are five of the most affordable 4x4 SUVs available on sale in India.

Maruti Suzuki Jimny 4x4 (Starts from Rs 12.59 lakh)
The Jimny is small, so it fits into tight spots where bigger SUVs struggle. Its 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine makes 103 PS and 134 Nm. You can pick a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed torque converter automatic. Maruti fits it with the ALLGRIP PRO 4x4 system, which has a low-range transfer gear. The ladder-frame chassis and rigid-axle suspension help on uneven terrain. The 210 mm ground clearance helps too.

Mahindra Thar OG 4x4 (Starts from Rs 15.60 lakh)
The Thar OG comes with a 2-litre turbo-petrol and a 2.2-litre diesel engine option. Depending on the variant, you get a manual or an automatic gearbox. Its four-wheel-drive system has low-range gearing. That helps when you crawl over rocks, climb steep slopes or push through mud. The 232 mm ground clearance gives you extra room on uneven trails.

Force Gurkha 3-door and 5-door 4x4 (Starts from Rs 16.52 lakh)
Both body styles use a 2.6-litre diesel engine. It makes 140 PS and 320 Nm and comes with a 5-speed manual gearbox. The Gurkha’s big strength is its hardware. It has a low-range transfer case and manually locking front and rear differentials. It also gets 233 mm of ground clearance and a factory-fitted snorkel. Force claims it can wade through water up to 700 mm deep.

Mahindra Scorpio N 4x4 (Starts from Rs 18.02 lakh)
The Scorpio N suits families better. It has a roomy cabin, a strong diesel engine and four-wheel-drive ability. The 2.2-litre diesel makes up to 175 PS and 400 Nm. You can get a 6-speed manual, or a 6-speed automatic on the higher variants. The 4x4 system has selectable drive modes. It sends power to all four wheels when you need extra grip.

Mahindra Thar Roxx 4x4 (Starts from Rs 19.56 lakh)
The Roxx has five doors, so it is easier to use every day. The diesel 4x4 versions still carry the hardware you need off the road. You get selectable terrain modes and a brake-locking differential that helps control wheelspin. The higher variants also get an electronic locking rear differential. The MX5 Diesel 4WD MT is the cheapest way into the Roxx’s 4x4 range.