Over the years, the taste of Indian SUV buyers has changed a lot. While big and bulky SUVs used to be the popular choice earlier, nowadays, compact SUVs are the ones dominating the SUV space. In sync with the trend, we bring you a list of top five such SUVs that are priced in the Rs 10-20 lakh bracket. (Source: CarDekho.com)
Renault Duster: The Duster still holds its ground as the most uniquely packaged SUV in its segment. How? Well, it is the only compact SUV in the country to offer an AWD (all-wheel-drive) option and its petrol and diesel automatic variants are the most affordable in the segment. The Duster also feels like it was built for abuse, thanks to its robust platform that also underpins the Captur. It is certainly the only macho looking monocoque-based SUV out there and that seals the deal for many. Our pick is the RXS variant of the Duster, which is the second from top in its lineup. It is also the only petrol automatic option in the SUV's portfolio and comes equipped with ESP.
Maruti Suzuki S-Cross: The S-Cross is one of the most affordable, compact crossovers in the market. The redesigned front fascia adds to the S-Cross facelift's visual appeal. It is one of the most loaded offerings in its space - the ride quality is superb and the 1.3-litre diesel engine has enough grunt for city runabouts. Besides, the S-Cross is the most fuel-efficient offering in its segment, thanks to the new mild-hybrid tech that also assists its diesel engine as and when required. You won't regret buying this as it packs everything Maruti has to offer with the S-Cross at a significantly lesser (Rs 1.34 lakh) price compared to the top-spec Alpha variant.
Hyundai Creta: The Creta makes for an ideal SUV for the city - compact but bigger than sub-4m SUVs, spacious, gets potent powertrain options and a long equipment list. Its sales are notably fueled by the fact that the Hyundai Creta is the only SUV in the segment to offer an option of a 6-speed automatic with both petrol and diesel engines. The Creta is due for a facelift later this year but that shouldn't stop you from considering the current-gen model, which in our opinion, still looks fresh and makes for a great overall package.
Toyota Innova Crysta: The second-generation Innova a.k.a the Crysta has upped its game on all fronts. It comes with two diesel and one petrol engine options with drive modes, an extensive equipment list and Toyota's well-known reliability. Though it is an MPV, we have included it in the list of SUVs owing to its proportions, space and cred as a long distance touring vehicle. In terms of safety, standard equipment on the Innova Crysta includes up to three airbags (the top-end ZX gets 7 airbags!), a knee airbag, along with ABS with EBD and brake assist and ISOFIX child seat anchors.
Jeep Compass: The Jeep Compass looks handsome, has a solid build quality, feels premium on the inside and strikes a good balance between a rugged off-roader and an everyday premium SUV. A 7-inch infotainment system along with dual front airbags, electric parking brake, ABS with EBD, PBA (panic brake assist) and four disc brakes come as standard. Other notable features on offer include hill start assist, ESC (electronic stability control) and TCS (traction control system) and daytime running lamps (non-LED). If you want to buy the diesel Compass and have a budget of about Rs 17.5 lakh, opt for the Longitude variant.
Looking for an SUV in the Rs 10-20 lakh bracket? Here are five of the best options.