Introduction
SUVs are the preferred choice for Indian car buyers due to their rugged design, high ground clearance, and spacious interiors. However, many believe that buying an SUV requires a big budget. If you are looking for an affordable SUV without compromising on features and performance, you will be happy to know that there are some great options available under ₹8 lakh.
In this article, we will discuss the 5 best SUVs that you can buy within a budget of ₹8 lakh in 2025. These SUVs offer good mileage, modern features, and reliable performance, making them perfect for city and highway driving.
1. Tata Punch – The Most Affordable Compact SUV
The Tata Punch is one of the most popular compact SUVs in India. It offers a bold design, high ground clearance, and excellent safety features, making it a great choice in the budget segment.
Key Features:
- Engine: 1.2L Petrol
- Power Output: 86 PS
- Mileage: 18-20 kmpl
- Transmission: Manual & AMT
- Safety: 5-Star Global NCAP Rating
- Boot Space: 366 Litres
Why Buy Tata Punch?
✅ Affordable pricing within ₹6.5 to ₹8 lakh range ✅ SUV-like ground clearance for tackling rough roads ✅ Best-in-class safety features ✅ Modern interiors with touchscreen infotainment
2. Renault Kiger – Stylish & Feature-Packed SUV
The Renault Kiger is a stylish and practical SUV with a sporty design and a spacious cabin. It comes with a feature-rich interior, making it a value-for-money option in the budget SUV category.
Key Features:
- Engine: 1.0L Petrol Turbo
- Power Output: 100 PS
- Mileage: 20-22 kmpl
- Transmission: Manual & CVT
- Safety: 4-Star Global NCAP Rating
- Boot Space: 405 Litres
Why Buy Renault Kiger?
✅ Powerful turbo petrol engine ✅ Spacious cabin and large boot space ✅ Modern features like touchscreen, digital instrument cluster ✅ Sporty and bold design
3. Nissan Magnite – Best Budget SUV with Premium Features
The Nissan Magnite is an affordable compact SUV that offers premium features and a comfortable driving experience. It is one of the most budget-friendly SUVs in India, making it a great choice for first-time buyers.
Key Features:
- Engine: 1.0L Petrol Turbo
- Power Output: 100 PS
- Mileage: 18-21 kmpl
- Transmission: Manual & CVT
- Safety: 4-Star Global NCAP Rating
- Boot Space: 336 Litres
Why Buy Nissan Magnite?
✅ Most affordable turbo petrol SUV ✅ Great mileage and driving experience ✅ Loaded with features like wireless Apple CarPlay, cruise control ✅ Compact yet spacious design
4. Hyundai Exter – New Entrant in Compact SUV Segment
The Hyundai Exter is one of the latest additions to the compact SUV segment in India. It offers a stylish design, premium features, and Hyundai’s trusted reliability.
Key Features:
- Engine: 1.2L Petrol
- Power Output: 83 PS
- Mileage: 18-20 kmpl
- Transmission: Manual & AMT
- Safety: 6 Airbags (Segment-First Feature)
- Boot Space: 391 Litres
Why Buy Hyundai Exter?
✅ Best-in-class safety with 6 airbags ✅ Modern infotainment system with connected car features ✅ Spacious cabin and excellent comfort ✅ Affordable pricing under ₹8 lakh
5. Maruti Suzuki Fronx – The Compact SUV with Strong Mileage
The Maruti Suzuki Fronx is a stylish and fuel-efficient compact SUV based on the Baleno platform. It offers a modern design, good mileage, and Maruti’s trusted service network.
Key Features:
- Engine: 1.2L Petrol
- Power Output: 90 PS
- Mileage: 20-22 kmpl
- Transmission: Manual & AMT
- Safety: Dual Airbags, ABS with EBD
- Boot Space: 308 Litres
Why Buy Maruti Suzuki Fronx?
✅ Excellent fuel efficiency ✅ Reliable and easy maintenance ✅ Stylish and youthful design ✅ Smooth performance with refined engine
Comparison Table of Best SUVs Under 8 Lakhs (2025)
| Model | Engine | Power | Mileage | Safety Rating | Boot Space |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tata Punch | 1.2L Petrol | 86 PS | 18-20 kmpl | 5-Star | 366L |
| Renault Kiger | 1.0L Turbo | 100 PS | 20-22 kmpl | 4-Star | 405L |
| Nissan Magnite | 1.0L Turbo | 100 PS | 18-21 kmpl | 4-Star | 336L |
| Hyundai Exter | 1.2L Petrol | 83 PS | 18-20 kmpl | 6 Airbags | 391L |
| Maruti Fronx | 1.2L Petrol | 90 PS | 20-22 kmpl | 2 Airbags | 308L |
Conclusion: Which SUV Should You Choose?
Choosing the right SUV under ₹8 lakh depends on your requirements and preferences:
- For Best Safety & Build Quality: Tata Punch
- For Stylish Looks & Features: Renault Kiger
- For Affordable Turbo Petrol SUV: Nissan Magnite
- For Best Safety with 6 Airbags: Hyundai Exter
- For High Mileage & Low Maintenance: Maruti Suzuki Fronx
All of these SUVs offer great value for money and are perfect for buyers looking for an affordable yet feature-packed SUV in 2025. If you’re planning to buy an SUV within ₹8 lakh, any of these models would be an excellent choice!
🚗 Which SUV would you choose? Let us know in the comments!