Tata Nexon to Kia Syros: the 5 Most Fuel-Efficient Diesel SUVs in India Under ₹15 Lakh

If you are a lover of long trips, hardships through tough rural areas, or just want a fuel-efficient car that will not cost you a lot, diesel SUVs still make a lot of sense. Overall, diesel cars may slow down in India, but the SUV segment still keeps the diesel cars as their strong favorites — especially the buyers who want power + economy in one package.

The good news is that you can still buy some very fuel-efficient diesel SUVs below ₹15 lakh. Here’s a simple, human-focused breakdown of the top five most fuel-efficient diesel compact SUVs in India, as per ARAI-certified mileage.

1. Tata Nexon — The mileage King

Mileage: Up to 24.08 kmpl

Price: ₹9.01 lakh – ₹14.05 lakh

The Tata Nexon keeps cruising on top of this list and it is not without a reason. Its 1.5-litre diesel engine, coupled with AMT or manual choices, gives the best fuel economy in the segment making highway travel super cheap for your wallet.

AMT: 24.08 kmpl

Manual: 23.23 kmpl

Dependable, sturdily constructed, and now more fashionable than ever – Nexon diesel appeals to both daily commuters and travelers.

2. Kia Sonet — Stylish, Youthful, and Efficient

Mileage: Up to 22.3 kmpl

Price: ₹8.98 lakh – ₹14.09 lakh

The Kia Sonet is not only about beauty and comfort — the diesel engine is truly efficient and very smooth as well.

Manual: Up to 22.3 kmpl

Automatic: About 18.6 kmpl

It is an excellent choice if you are looking for something modern, compact, and fun to drive, and at the same time good on gas.

3. Mahindra XUV 3XO — A Punchy Diesel + Practical Efficiency

Mileage: 20.6 – 21.2 kmpl

Price: ₹8.95 lakh – ₹13.43 lakh

The Mahindra XUV 3XO is the most economical SUV in this ranking — and surprisingly one of the most powerful as well. Its 1.5-litre diesel engine is smooth, has high torque, and is the one which gives the driver highway confidence.

Manual: 21.2 kmpl

AMT: 20.6 kmpl

In case you are after a performance that is strong and an efficiency that is solid, then this is a choice that gives you the most value for your money.

4. Hyundai Venue — Smooth, Practical, and Reliable

Mileage: Up to 20.99 kmpl

Price: ₹9.70 lakh – ₹15.69 lakh

Hyundai Venue diesel has been a favourite choice as a family SUV, and as best car for city. The 1.5-litre engine is fun, easy to handle, and economical.

Manual + Automatic: Up to 20.99 kmpl

If comfort, features and easy driving experience are the things you want, then the Venue will not disappoint you.

5. Kia Syros — New, Modern, and Still Very Efficient

Mileage: Up to 20.75 kmpl

Price: ₹10.14 lakh – ₹15.94 lakh

Although Kia Syros is the newcomer in the market, its elegant design and roomy interior have already made it very popular. This new car comes equipped with the same engine as Sonet but still is very different in terms of power consumption:

Manual: 20.75 kmpl

Automatic: 17.65 kmpl

If you prefer more space and a bolder presence than Sonet, this one is a good pick.

Final Take — Which One Should You Buy?

When it is about fuel economy absolutely no one can spoil the diesel Tata Nexon. If the combo of tech + aesthetics is the major criterion then Kia Sonet is the way to go.

If your concern is value + performance, Mahindra XUV 3XO is the best deal.

For cozy and practical use, Hyundai Venue would be the right choice.

And if you want the latest and modern things, then Kia Syros should be your pick.