With many crossovers calling themselves SUVs in India, the real capable ones are often overlooked, or just ignored. Some of these capable 4X4s are often restricted to city life and paved roads, while at times, the 4X4 option is never used. However, for those looking at capable off-roaders, here are 5 of the most affordable 4X4s in India on sale right now.
Most affordable 4X4s in India
The Mahindra Thar is the quintessential SUV with its three-door setup, short wheelbase, short overhangs, big tyres, and butch looks. The Thar saw a major update compared to the older-generation vehicle and the current-gen Thar, in the hands of a capable driver, can get past anything, rather, over anything.
Maruti Suzuki Jimny
The Maruti Suzuki Gypsy held the off-roading crown for a long time and the replacement for the off-roader was due. Finally, after years of ‘launching this year’ speculations, Maruti Suzuki brought the Jimny to India. The Maruti Suzuki Jimny uses a similar approach as the Thar but is much smaller in proportions and in terms of engine size.
The Mahindra Scorpio N takes over the reins from the older Scorpio, now called the Classic, in terms of capabilities on road and off the road. The Scorpio N is available in 2WD and 4WD versions, while its powerful petrol and diesel engines are mile-munchers on highways. Also, Mahindra will be launching a pickup version, most likely called the Scorpio X, based on the Scorpio N, which will retain the SUV’s off-road capabilities.
Force Gurkha
While most of the above-mentioned models have a ton of electronics to control their off-roading capabilities, the Force Gurkha sticks to old-school methods with a diesel engine, part-time manual 4X4 option, and mechanically lockable front and rear differentials. If a hard-core, barebones off-roader is what’s needed, the Gurkha is the answer.
Isuzu V-Cross
If SUVs are satisfactory enough, the Isuzu V-Cross offers more. The V-Cross is a capable pickup truck with extremely good 4X4 capabilities and has been proven by many enthusiasts in India and countries like Australia where these vehicles are put through terrains that can break vehicles. The Isuzu’s off-road capabilities are at a slight disadvantage owing to its long wheelbase, but a ton of aftermarket suspension kit choices solve the issue.
| Thar | Jimny | Scorpio | Gurkha | V-Cross | |
| Displacement | 2.2 L | 2.0 L (P) | 1.5 L | 2.2 L | 2.5 L | 1.9 L |
| Power (bhp) | 130 | 150 | 103 | 130 | 172 | 90 | 161 |
| Torque (Nm) | 300 | 134 | 300 | 370 | 250 | 360 |
| Gearbox | MT/AT | MT/AT | MT/AT | MT | MT/AT |
| Price (Rs) | 11.25 lakh | 12.74 lakh | 13.60 lakh | 15.10 lakh | 19.49 lakh |
