10 Diesel SUVs Still Available in India in 2026 – From Budget Nexon to Premium Fortuner

Diesel cars once dominated the Indian automobile market, particularly among buyers who travel long distances or prefer SUVs with high torque and strong highway performance. However, in recent years, stricter emission regulations and the rapid rise of electric vehicles have reduced the number of diesel options.

Despite this shift, several diesel-powered SUVs and cars are still available in India in 2026. These vehicles remain popular among buyers because of their excellent highway mileage, strong torque, and durability.

Below are some of the popular diesel models currently available in the Indian market.

Mahindra Scorpio-N

The Scorpio-N remains one of the most popular diesel SUVs in India. It is powered by a 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine, known for delivering strong torque and excellent highway performance. Its bold design and off-road capability make it a preferred choice among SUV enthusiasts.

One of the most popular diesel SUVs in India, the Scorpio-N is known for its strong performance and rugged design.

Engine

• 2.2-litre mHawk diesel

Key Features

• 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system

• Sony premium sound system

• 6 airbags and electronic stability control

Toyota Fortuner

The Fortuner has long been a leader in the premium SUV segment. It comes with a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine that offers powerful performance and reliability. The SUV continues to be a top choice among buyers looking for large and capable diesel SUVs.

The Fortuner has maintained a strong presence in the premium SUV segment for years.

Engine

• 2.8-litre turbo-diesel

Key Features

• 4×4 drivetrain

• Ventilated seats

• 11-speaker JBL sound system

• Multi-terrain driving modes

Tata Safari

The Safari is a three-row SUV from Tata Motors that offers a spacious cabin and modern styling. It is powered by a 2.0-litre Kryotec diesel engine and is also known for its strong safety features.

The Safari is a three-row SUV popular among families looking for space and modern features.

Engine

• 2.0-litre Kryotec diesel

Key Features

• Panoramic sunroof

• ADAS safety technology

• 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system

• 6- and 7-seater configurations

Mahindra Bolero

The Bolero is one of India’s longest-running SUVs and continues to rely on a simple and reliable diesel engine. Its rugged construction and low maintenance cost make it particularly popular in rural and semi-urban areas.

The Bolero remains a reliable and durable SUV, particularly popular in rural and semi-urban areas.

Engine

• 1.5-litre diesel

Key Features

• Ladder-frame chassis

• High ground clearance

• Low maintenance costs

• Simple and rugged design

Kia Sonet (Diesel)

The Sonet is one of the few compact SUVs still offering a diesel engine. Its 1.5-litre diesel engine provides good fuel efficiency along with modern features, making it popular among urban buyers.

The Sonet is a feature-rich compact SUV that still offers a diesel engine option.

Engine

• 1.5-litre diesel

Key Features

• 10.25-inch touchscreen

• Ventilated front seats

• Bose sound system

• Digital instrument cluster

Hyundai Creta (Diesel)

The Creta remains a top-selling mid-size SUV in India. Its 1.5-litre diesel engine delivers refined performance and excellent fuel economy, making it ideal for both city and highway driving.

The Creta is one of the best-selling mid-size SUVs in India.

Engine

• 1.5-litre diesel

Key Features

• ADAS safety system

• Panoramic sunroof

• 10.25-inch digital display

• Connected car technology

Mahindra Thar

The Thar is a favorite among off-road enthusiasts. It comes with a 2.2-litre diesel engine that delivers strong torque, making it capable on rough terrain as well as highways.

The Thar is extremely popular among off-road enthusiasts.

Engine

• 2.2-litre diesel

Key Features

• 4×4 drivetrain

• Removable roof options

• Off-road driving modes

• High water-wading capability

Tata Nexon (Diesel)

Although many manufacturers have discontinued diesel engines in the compact segment, the Nexon still offers a 1.5-litre diesel engine. Its strong safety ratings and good mileage make it a popular choice among buyers.

The Nexon is known for its strong safety ratings and good fuel efficiency in the compact SUV segment.

Engine

• 1.5-litre diesel

Key Features

• 10.25-inch touchscreen

• 5-star safety rating

• 360-degree camera

• JBL sound system

Toyota Hilux

The Hilux is a pickup truck designed for heavy-duty use and off-road conditions. It shares the same 2.8-litre diesel engine used in the Fortuner, offering powerful performance and durability.

The Hilux is a pickup truck built for heavy-duty use and tough terrains.

Engine

• 2.8-litre diesel

Key Features

• 4×4 drivetrain

• High torque output

• Strong chassis construction

• Excellent off-road capability

Mahindra XUV700

The XUV700 is a premium SUV known for its modern design and advanced technology. It features a 2.2-litre diesel engine and comes equipped with advanced safety features such as ADAS.

The XUV700 is a premium SUV known for its advanced technology and safety features.

Engine

• 2.2-litre diesel

Key Features

• ADAS safety suite

• Dual 10.25-inch screens

• Sony 3D sound system

• Panoramic sunroof

Why Is the Demand for Diesel Cars Declining in India?

Several factors are responsible for the declining popularity of diesel vehicles in India.

1. Stricter emission norms

The introduction of BS6 Phase 2 emission standards has made diesel engines more expensive to develop and maintain.

2. Rise of electric vehicles

The government and automobile manufacturers are increasingly investing in electric and hybrid vehicles, changing the market trend.

3. Changing urban preferences

In cities, petrol and hybrid vehicles are becoming more popular because they are quieter and usually have a lower initial cost.

Is It Still Worth Buying a Diesel Car in 2026?

Buying a diesel car can still make sense if you:

• Drive long distances frequently

• Spend a lot of time on highways

• Prefer SUVs with high torque

Diesel engines typically provide better fuel efficiency and stronger pulling power, which is beneficial for larger vehicles and long journeys.

However, as the automotive industry gradually moves toward electrification, the number of diesel models available in India may continue to decline in the coming years.