1. Mahindra Scorpio‑N

· Why it’s great: A rugged and bold SUV with strong diesel performance and commanding road presence.

· Engine: 2.2 L diesel with robust torque (around 175 PS & 370–400 Nm).

· Features: Good ground clearance, 360° camera, dual‑zone climate control, sunroof on higher trims.

· 4×4 Option: Available in select variants, making it a true all‑terrain SUV.

· Price: Starts around ₹16 – 18 lakh on‑road for diesel variants, depending on city and trim.

· Best for: Buyers who want a traditional SUV feel and off‑road capability.

2. Tata Safari

· Why it’s great: A spacious seven‑seater with a refined diesel engine and strong safety credentials.

· Engine: 2.0 L Kryotec diesel with about 170 PS & 350 Nm torque.

· Features: Panoramic sunroof, driving modes, premium cabin and family‑friendly interior.

· Price: Around ₹17 – 18 lakh (on‑road) for base diesel variants.

· Best for: Families needing space, comfort and highway touring ability.

3. Hyundai Alcazar (Diesel)

· Why it’s great: Strong blend of comfort, refinement and features with a premium feel.

· Engine: 1.5 L diesel delivering around 115 PS & 253 Nm torque — great for city and highway use.

· Features: Panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, wireless charger, multiple drive modes.

· Price: Starts near ₹18 lakh on‑road for diesel variants.

· Best for: Buyers wanting SUV practicality with comfortable family interiors.

4. Jeep Compass

· Why it’s great: Stylish SUV with solid build quality, premium features and capable diesel engine.

· Engine: 2.0 L diesel with about 170 PS & 370 Nm torque.

· Features: Panoramic roof, 360° camera, dual‑climate control, apple CarPlay/Android Auto.

· Price: Base variants hover around ₹20 lakh (depending on state and on‑road pricing).

· Best for: Those who want a premium SUV experience with good tech and comfort.

5. MG Hector (Diesel)

· Why it’s great: Spacious cabin, huge infotainment screen and solid feature list at competitive pricing.

· Engine: 2.0 L diesel with similar output to Compass (~170 PS & 370 Nm).

· Features: 14.1‑inch touchscreen, wireless charging, comfy seats and good ride quality.

· Price: diesel variants expected around the ₹18 – 20 lakh bracket.

· Best for: Feature‑rich family SUV with big presence on the road.

🛣️ Quick Buying Tips

✔ Diesel engines are preferred in india for high torque and better highway efficiency, especially for long‑distance driving.
✔ If you do a lot of city commuting, also consider fuel economy figures — midsize SUVs like Creta/Seltos diesel return high mileage (20‑22 km/l claimed) and are excellent options too.
✔ Automatic options are increasingly available in this segment (e.g., Scorpio‑N AT), so if you want ease in traffic, check those variants.

🏁 Conclusion

If your budget is around ₹20 lakh, you’ve got a strong set of diesel SUV options in 2026 — from rugged traditional picks like the Scorpio‑N and Safari to more premium and tech‑loaded choices like the Jeep Compass and MG Hector. Prioritize what matters most to you (off‑road ability, luxury features, seating space or mileage) when finalizing your choice.

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.