Diesel cars have always been the first choice for long-distance travelers, and for people who drive a lot. There are two primary reasons why diesel is the preferred engine. Firstly, a diesel engine has much more torque when compared to a petrol engine, which makes the car feel more punchy and fun to drive. Secondly, a diesel engine is more fuel efficient, at least by 10%. However, diesel variants are also significantly pricier when compared to petrol, and may not always be affordable. So, here are the 5 best diesel cars under Rs. 15 Lakhs in India!
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Mahindra Thar (LX)
Undoubtedly the most desirable name on this list of best diesel cars is the Mahindra Thar. The 2.2L mHawk engine on this SUV produces 130HP and 320nm, which is more than enough for all kinds of road conditions. Moreover, this SUV gets a proper 4×4 system which makes off-roading pure bliss. The LX variant of the Thar costs Rs. 14.58 Lakhs (ex-showroom). The Thar also gets the option of a 6-speed AT. 
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Mahindra XUV300 (W8(O))
Yet another Mahindra on this list of best diesel cars! The XUV300 is a compact SUV that has been doing very well in India. The diesel engine on the XUV300 is a 1.5L unit that produces 115HP and 300nm torque. Yes, 300nm, that is a huge number for a car in this segment! For Rs. 13.23 Lakhs (ex-showroom), you can pick up the top-spec variant of the XUV300 and enjoy the diesel punch along with all the features that you could ask for.
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Kia Sonet (GTX Plus)
The Kia Sonet is one of the most feature-loaded machines on this list of best diesel cars. It gets everything from ventilated seats to front parking sensors. The diesel engine on the Sonet is a 1.5L unit that makes around 114HP and 250nm. This engine is the only one in the segment that gets a 6-speed torque converter unit for the automatic transmission. The top-spec trim of the Sonet along with the diesel engine costs Rs. 12.99 Lakhs (ex-showroom).
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Honda Amaze (VX CVT)
The Honda Amaze is the only car on this list (and on most lists that) that gets a CVT along with a diesel engine. The 1.5L diesel engine from Honda makes 80HP and 160nm. Yes, the numbers are not that impressive but the engine is highly reliable and very fuel efficient. It is more than enough for city driving and adequate for highway cruising. Moreover, the comfort and convenience of a CVT are unparalleled. The diesel engine along with the CVT on the Honda Amaze costs Rs. 11.50 Lakhs (ex-showroom).
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Tata Nexon (XZ+(O))
No list about the best diesel cars can be complete without a Tata in it. The Tata Nexon is a very popular car in the Indian market and it has also outsold the Hyundai Creta at times. The 1.5L diesel engine on the Nexon makes around 108HP and 260nm. This engine also comes with the option of an AMT, however, the manual feels much better to drive. The Nexon is also very heavy on features, and it was Tata’s first car to get connected car tech. The top-end variant of the Nexon diesel will cost you Rs. 12.56 (ex-showroom).
These were the 5 best diesel cars under Rs. 15 Lakhs in India. Which one would be your pick? Let us know in the comments below!
Hi Sir, I’m planning to buy a new CAR under 15-16L on road Bangalore. My daily running is minimum 70-80 Km in Delhi heavy traffic. I’m looking for a fuel efficient car for at least 10 years and confused between petrol & Diesel. Looking some recommendations under my Budget. Should I consider Automatic or Manual? Mostly looking for SUV but not restricted to it.
Hey Alex, why not give EV a try? given that your running is up to 80kms in a metro city, an EV makes perfect sense here. Futureproof too!