Top 10 Off-Road Cars in India – Price, Features & Performance

India has all kinds of landscapes—rocky Himalayan paths, sandy Rajasthan deserts, and muddy village roads. These tough places need strong cars that can handle anything. Off-roading is getting super popular with people who love adventure in India, and car companies are making tough, reliable vehicles to keep up. Whether you want the best off-road cars in India, a great 4x4 off-road SUV, or a cheap off-road car under 10 lakhs, this guide lists the top picks for 2025. We’ve done a lot of research, looking at how well they work, what they offer, their prices, and how good they are off-road, just for you.

Why Off-Roading is Growing in India

Off-roading isn’t just something fun to do—it’s a way of life for many Indians now. More people are joining off-road groups, events like the Rainforest Challenge India are happening, and everyone wants cars ready for adventure. The demand for off-road cars and 4x4 off-road SUVs is bigger than ever. Indian brands like Mahindra and Tata make tough, affordable cars, while global names like Toyota and Jeep make luxury and top-notch features cars.

Top 10 Off-Road Cars in India for 2025

Here’s our curated list of the best off-road vehicles in India, blending local favorites with international icons. These cars excel on rough terrains, mountain roads, and desert trails, making them ideal for off-roading enthusiasts.

1. Mahindra Thar – The Off-Roading King

• Price: ₹12.5 - ₹18 lakh (ex-showroom)

• Engine: 2.0L Turbo Petrol / 2.2L Diesel

• Drivetrain: 4x4 with Low-Range Gearbox

• Ground Clearance: 226 mm

• Why It’s Great: Often dubbed the king of off-road cars in India, the Mahindra Thar combines raw power, exceptional approach/departure angles (41.2°/36°), and a rugged design inspired by the Jeep Wrangler. Its updated 2025 version offers modern infotainment and improved ride quality without compromising off-road prowess.

• Best For: Hardcore off-roaders and mountain trails.

2. Tata Harrier Off-Road Edition (Speculative 2025 Model)

• Price: ₹16 - ₹22 lakh (estimated)

• Engine: 2.0L Kryotec Diesel

• Drivetrain: AWD (All-Wheel Drive) option expected

• Ground Clearance: 205 mm

Why It’s Great: Tata’s off-road SUV contender, the Harrier, is rumored to get an AWD variant in 2025, enhancing its Terrain Response System. It’s a step up from its FWD sibling, offering robust build quality and comfort for long off-road journeys.

• Best For: Family off-roading and rugged highways.

3. Toyota Fortuner – The Luxury Off-Roader

• Price: ₹33 - ₹50 lakh (ex-showroom)

• Engine: 2.8L Diesel

• Drivetrain: 4x4 with Low-Range

• Ground Clearance: 220 mm

• Why It’s Great: Known as one of the best off-road SUVs in India, the Fortuner blends luxury with off-road capability. Its durable chassis, high ground clearance, and powerful diesel engine make it a favorite for desert expeditions and long-distance adventures.

• Best For: Luxury off-roading and desert drives.

4. Jeep Compass Trailhawk

• Price: ₹28 - ₹32 lakh (ex-showroom)

• Engine: 2.0L Multijet Diesel

• Drivetrain: 4x4 with Jeep Active Drive

• Ground Clearance: 225 mm

• Why It’s Great: The Trailhawk variant is Jeep’s answer to India’s off-road needs, featuring skid plates, all-terrain tires, and a Selec-Terrain system. It’s a premium off-road vehicle with global pedigree.

• Best For: Urban adventurers who off-road occasionally.

5. Force Gurkha – The Rugged Underdog

• Price: ₹15 - ₹17 lakh (ex-showroom)

• Engine: 2.6L Diesel

• Drivetrain: 4x4 with Manual Locking Differentials

• Ground Clearance: 233 mm

• Why It’s Great: With its Mercedes G-Wagen-inspired looks and unbeatable off-road hardware (snorkel, locking diffs), the Gurkha is a best off-road car for purists on a budget.

• Best For: Extreme off-roading and water wading.

6. Mahindra Scorpio N (4x4 Variant)

• Price: ₹17 - ₹24 lakh (ex-showroom)

• Engine: 2.2L mHawk Diesel

• Drivetrain: 4x4 option

• Ground Clearance: 187 mm (4x4 expected to improve)

• Why It’s Great: The Scorpio N’s 4x4 version adds off-road cred to its already tough persona. It’s a versatile off-road SUV in India with strong aftermarket modification potential.

• Best For: Modified off-road builds and rural trails.

7. Isuzu D-Max V-Cross

• Price: ₹20 - ₹26 lakh (ex-showroom)

• Engine: 1.9L Diesel

• Drivetrain: 4x4 with Shift-on-Fly

• Ground Clearance: 225 mm

• Why It’s Great: This pickup truck doubles as an off-road vehicle with its high payload capacity and robust 4x4 system. It’s perfect for overlanding and carrying off-road gear.

• Best For: Overlanding and utility off-roading.

8. Maruti Suzuki Jimny

• Price: ₹12 - ₹15 lakh (ex-showroom)

• Engine: 1.5L Petrol

• Drivetrain: 4x4 with Low-Range

• Ground Clearance: 210 mm

• Why It’s Great: Compact yet mighty, the Jimny is a best off-road car under 15 lakhs. Its lightweight build and excellent angles (36° approach, 47° departure) make it a nimble off-roader.

• Best For: Solo adventurers and tight trails.

9. Hyundai Tucson (AWD Variant)

• Price: ₹28 - ₹35 lakh (ex-showroom)

• Engine: 2.0L Diesel

• Drivetrain: AWD

• Ground Clearance: 192 mm

• Why It’s Great: While not a hardcore 4x4, the Tucson’s AWD system and refined ride quality make it a best off-road SUV for light off-roading with family comfort.

• Best For: Soft off-roading and mountain roads.

10. Tata Safari (Speculative AWD Variant)

• Price: ₹18 - ₹25 lakh (estimated)

• Engine: 2.0L Diesel

• Drivetrain: AWD (rumored for 2025)

• Ground Clearance: 205 mm

• Why It’s Great: With Tata pushing its off-road game, an AWD Safari could rival the best in the segment, offering space, power, and Tata off-road car reliability.

• Best For: Family adventures and moderate off-roading

Comparison Table: Top Off-Road Cars in India (2025)

Affordable Off-Road Cars Under ₹10 Lakh

For budget-conscious buyers, options are limited, but modified vehicles shine here:

• Maruti Gypsy (Used): Discontinued but available second-hand (₹4-7 lakh). Its 4x4 system and lightweight frame make it a modder’s delight.

• Mahindra Bolero (Base 4x4): Priced around ₹9-10 lakh, it’s a basic yet tough off-road car in India for rural use.

Upcoming Off-Road Cars in India (2025-2026)

• Tata Sierra 4x4: A revival with AWD potential, expected by late 2025.

• Mahindra Thar 5-Door: More space, same off-road DNA, slated for mid-2025.

• Toyota Hilux Facelift: Enhanced features for India’s overlanding crowd, likely in 2026.

Tips for Choosing the Best Off-Road Car in India

1. Terrain Type: Mountains need high ground clearance (e.g., Gurkha), while deserts favor power (e.g., Fortuner).

2. Budget: Affordable 4x4s like Jimny suit beginners; luxury options like Fortuner cater to seasoned enthusiasts.

3. Modification: Cars like Thar and Scorpio N have thriving aftermarket support for custom builds.

4. Fuel Efficiency: Diesel engines (e.g., Force Gurkha) are better for long off-road trips.

The King of Off-Roading in India

While opinions vary, the Mahindra Thar reigns supreme as India’s best off-road car in 2025, thanks to its affordability, capability, and cult following. However, for luxury seekers, the Toyota Fortuner holds its own as the king of off-road SUVs.

Conclusion

India’s off-road scene is richer than ever, with options spanning the rugged Force Gurkha to the plush Jeep Compass Trailhawk. Whether you’re chasing the best 4x4 off-road cars in India or a top off-road SUV for family adventures, this list has you covered. Pick your ride, hit the trails, and let the adventure begin!

Faqs

1. What are the best off-road cars in India for 2025?

The top off-road cars for 2025 in India include the Mahindra Thar, Force Gurkha, Maruti Suzuki Jimny, Toyota Fortuner, Jeep Compass Trailhawk, Tata Harrier (AWD expected), Mahindra Scorpio N (4x4), and Isuzu D-Max V-Cross. They’re tough and great for rough roads, mountains, and deserts.

2. Which is the cheapest off-road car in 2025?

The Maruti Suzuki Jimny is the cheapest new off-road car, priced between ₹12-15 lakh. For even lower budgets, a used Maruti Gypsy (₹4-7 lakh) or Mahindra Bolero (₹9-10 lakh) are good options.

3. What makes a car good for off-roading?

A good off-road car needs high ground clearance (to avoid rocks), a 4x4 or AWD system (for grip), strong engines (for power), and tough builds. Features like locking differentials or snorkels help too.

4. Is the Mahindra Thar still the best off-road car in 2025?

Yes, the Mahindra Thar is still a favorite in 2025. It’s tough, affordable (₹12.5-18 lakh), and has a strong 4x4 system, making it the king of off-roading for many in India.

5. Can I get an off-road car under ₹10 lakh in 2025?

New cars under ₹10 lakh with 4x4 are rare, but the Mahindra Bolero (around ₹9-10 lakh) works for basic off-roading. Used options like the Maruti Gypsy are cheaper and still solid.

6. Which off-road car is best for mountains?

The Force Gurkha (233 mm clearance) and Mahindra Thar (226 mm clearance) are awesome for mountains. Their high ground clearance and 4x4 systems handle steep, rocky trails easily.

7. What’s the most luxurious off-road car in 2025?

The Toyota Fortuner (₹33-50 lakh) is the most luxurious off-road car. It’s comfy, powerful, and great for deserts or long trips while keeping you in style.

8. Are there any new off-road cars coming in 2025?

Yes! The Mahindra Thar 5-Door (bigger version) is expected mid-2025, and the Tata Sierra 4x4 might launch late 2025 with all-wheel drive.

9. Which off-road car is best for families?

The Tata Harrier (AWD expected, ₹16-22 lakh) and Toyota Fortuner (₹33-50 lakh) are great for families. They’re spacious, comfy, and can still handle off-road adventures.

10. How do I choose the right off-road car for me?

Think about where you’ll drive (mountains, deserts, mud), your budget (cheap like Jimny or fancy like Fortuner), and if you want to modify it (Thar’s a modder’s dream). Diesel cars are better for long trips.