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The Top 7 Cheapest 7-Seater SUVs in India That Are Ideal For Large Families
India’s growing popularity of SUVs is attested to by the variety of SUV body styles available there, ranging from micro- to full-sized SUVs. Furthermore, three-row SUVs have entered the mainstream market as a result of SUVs’ rising appeal, making sure that big families may still enjoy SUVs.
Seating capacity is one of the most important requirements in a country as diverse as India, where client needs differ greatly. With configurations ranging from four to seven seats, SUVs in India satisfy this need by offering a wide range of options across several sectors. We have compiled a list of the seven most reasonably priced 7-seater SUV alternatives available in India.
Mahindra Bolero Neo: Rs 9.95 lakh
In India, the most reasonably priced seven-seater SUV on the market is the Mahindra Bolero Neo. The base N4 model, which costs Rs 9.95 lakh, has a 1.5-liter diesel engine that produces 100 PS and 260 Nm of torque. It is coupled to a 5-speed manual gearbox. Additionally, the top-tier models include a mechanical locking differential at the back.
Mahindra Bolero: Rs 9.98 lakh
After more than 20 years of sales in the nation, consumers seeking a tough substitute for comparably priced monocoque SUVs have continued to choose the Mahindra Bolero. The most recent model of the seven-seat Bolero is priced at Rs 9.98 lakh. Its 1.5-liter diesel engine produces 210 Nm and 76 PS. It is connected to a manual 5-speed transmission. Comparing the Bolero to its rivals, though, shows how outdated it has become, and a generational redesign is anticipated for the SUV by 2026.
Citroen C3 Aircross: Rs 11.96 lakh
In and of itself, the Citroen C3 Aircross is a rather special offering. Citroen went above and beyond by providing the option of two additional seats in the rear while maintaining affordable pricing, something that other compact SUV manufacturers only provide in 5-seater configurations. The 7-seater is the most reasonably priced model on the list, with a starting price of Rs 11.96 lakh, while the 5-seater variations start at Rs 9.99 lakh. Its 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engine produces 110 horsepower and 206 torque. Either a 6-speed torque converter transmission or a 6-speed manual gearbox is included.
Mahindra Scorpio Classic: Rs 13.59 lakh
The automaker decided to continue selling the second-generation Mahindra Scorpio alongside the new SUV, albeit with certain modifications and a new moniker (Scorpio Classic), even after the third-generation model was introduced as the Scorpio N in India. To accommodate various buyer profiles, the older generation Scorpio is still available for purchase. There are only two models with seven and nine seats, which makes things simpler. A 2.2-liter diesel engine producing 300 Nm and 132 PS powers it. The manual transmission has six speeds.
Mahindra Scorpio N: Rs 13.85 lakh
The third generation of the Mahindra Scorpio brand, the Scorpio N, has better powertrains and additional features. The layouts with six and seven seats are likewise available. The base price of the seven-seater Scorpio N is Rs 13.85 lakh. You can choose between a 2.0-liter turbo-petrol engine (203 PS/380 Nm) and a 2.2-liter diesel engine (132 PS/300 Nm) at this pricing. Rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) are the other two drivetrain options.
Tata Safari: Rs 16.19 lakh
In our market, the automaker’s premier three-row vehicle is the Tata Safari. Prices for it start at Rs 16.19 lakh and it comes in 6- and 7-seater versions. Its 2-liter diesel engine produces 350 Nm and 170 PS. It can be had with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission, which both provide the front wheels with power. Although it is not currently available, a gasoline engine is anticipated to be added shortly. Additionally, an electric vehicle (EV) version of the SUV is being developed, with a 2025 debut anticipated.
Hyundai Alcazar: Rs 16.78 lakh
When seeking a larger SUV that can accommodate six or seven people, consider the Hyundai Alcazar instead of the Creta. A 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine (160 PS / 253 Nm) mated to a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DCT (dual-clutch automatic transmission) and a 1.5-liter diesel engine (116 PS / 250 Nm) mated to a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission are the two engine options available.
The MG Hector Plus (Rs 17 lakh), the 5-door Force Gurkha (Rs 18 lakh), and the Mahindra XUV700 (Rs 16.89 lakh) were other SUVs that were nearly as good but did not make the list.
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Comparison of Kia EV3 with Kia Seltos specifications
With its fast EV6 crossover, Kia has already made an entry into the Indian EV market, but it’s undoubtedly not a car that’s affordable for the majority of people. Without naming the model, the Korean automaker has stated that it will launch a customized EV in India in 2025. We have reason to think that the production-spec Kia EV3, which was just unveiled, may be introduced to India as an electric substitute for the Kia Seltos small SUV. Let’s start by comparing these two SUVs side by side.
Measurements
| Kia EV3 | Kia Seltos | |
| Length | 4300 mm | 4365 mm |
| Width | 1850mm | 1800 mm |
| Height | 1560 mm | 1645 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2680 mm | 2610 mm |
| Boot space | 460 litres (gets a 25-litre frunk additionally) | 433 litres |
- Compared to the internal combustion engine (ICE)-powered Seltos, the Kia EV3 has a unique design as an electric vehicle.
- It is 50 mm wider, 65 mm shorter in height, and 65 mm smaller than the Seltos.
- The wheelbase of the EV3, which is built on the E-GMP electric-only platform, is 70 mm longer than that of the Seltos.
- With an additional 27 liters of space in the boot and a 25-liter trunk under the front hood, the EV3 offers even more room.
Highlights of the Features
| Features | Kia EV3 | Kia Seltos |
| Exterior | LED Headlamps
LED DRLs LED tail lights Aerodynamically-designed alloy wheels (size unknown) |
LED Headlamps
LED DRLs LED tail lights Front projector fog lamps 17/18-inch alloy wheels Shark-fin antenna |
| Interiors | White and grey dual-tone interiors
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material on seats Steering wheel wrapped with recycled materials |
Black and beige dual-tone dashboard (all-black on the higher trim levels)
Leatherette seats Leatherette-wrapped steering wheel |
| Comfort and Convenience | 12.3-inch fully digital driver’s display automatic AC, touch controls
Rear AC vents 12-inch Head-Up Display Touch button engine start/stop |
10.25-inch fully-digital driver’s display automatic AC
Rear AC vents 8-inch Head-Up Display |
| Infotainment | 12.3-inch infotainment system
Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay Harman Kardon music system |
10.25-inch infotainment system
Wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay 8-speaker Bose sound system |
| Safety | Airbags
360-view camera Level-2 ADAS |
Six airbags
Level-2 ADAS 360-degree view camera |
- Although it is the production-spec Kia EV3, the whole feature list has not yet been disclosed and will differ depending on the country.
- But compared to the Seltos, it boasts a more expansive integrated display configuration that includes a larger touchscreen infotainment system, a driver’s display, and AC controls built into a 5-inch touchscreen panel in between.
- In terms of high-end audio systems, linked automotive technology, LED lighting configurations, ambient lighting, and interior comforts, both vehicles are loaded with features. But with its touch-based control panels and use of recycled materials, the EV3 is a generation ahead of the Seltos.
- Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) at Level 2 are installed in both cars.
Drivetrains
| Specifications | Kia EV3 | Kia Seltos | |||
| Battery Pack/Engine | Standard 58.3 kWh | Long Range
81.4 kWh |
1.5-litre petrol | 1.5-litre turbo-petrol | 1.5-litre diesel |
| Power | 204 PS | 204 PS | 115 PS | 160 PS | 116 PS |
| Torque | 283 Nm | 283 Nm | 144 Nm | 254 Nm | 250 Nm |
- Our main focus is on the performance that these two radically different SUVs have to offer. The EV3’s smaller battery’s claimed range, which Kia has not yet disclosed, is expected to be between 400 and 450 kilometers, while the larger battery’s stated WLTP range is 600 kilometers.
- The EV3 has a single motor setup for two battery packs, while the Kia Seltos has three different engine configurations.
- Compared to the Kia EV3, the most potent 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine in the Seltos produces 44 PS and 29 Nm less power.
- Although Kia has not provided many specifics regarding the EV3’s charging timings, the larger battery pack can be quickly charged from 10 to 80 percent in just thirty-one minutes.
Cost Range
| Model | Kia EV3 | Kia Seltos | |
| Prices | Starting Rs 30 lakh (expected) | Rs 10.90 – 20.35 lakh | |
The Kia Seltos retails for between Rs 10.90 and Rs 20.35 lakh, ex-showroom. It competes with vehicles such as the Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, Maruti Grand Vitara, Hyundai Creta, and others. Due to its very localized offering, its price is competitive for the category.
However, because of its electric drivetrain and additional premium features, the Kia EV3, an electric SUV, will undoubtedly cost a premium. We anticipate it to be more expensive than vehicles like the MG ZS EV, the future Maruti eVX, and the Tata Curvv EV, even with a high level of localization.
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Currently, Mahindra XUV 3XO Petrol Variants Make Up Almost 70% Of All Bookings.
- In April 2024, Mahindra unveiled the XUV 3XO, a facelifted version of the XUV 300.
- It comes with a choice of 1.5-liter diesel and 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engines, each paired with an automatic transmission.
- Compared to diesel versions, petrol versions can be purchased for up to Rs 1.6 lakh less.
- The Mahindra SUV‘s starting pricing (ex-showroom, nationwide) ranges from Rs 7.49 lakh to Rs 15.49 lakh.
The Mahindra XUV 3XO, a facelifted version of the XUV300 SUV, was released at the end of April 2024. On May 15, the automaker began accepting reservations for the new SUV; it was subsequently disclosed that it had received 50,000 orders in the first hour. Top Mahindra executives also provided some information on the orders they have received for the new SUV during a recent investor meeting.
Increased Demand for Petrol
In contrast to the reputation of Mahindra SUVs, according to Mahindra spokespeople, the petrol models of the XUV 3XO make up almost 70% of all reservations made up to this point. It’s hardly shocking, considering that even the XUV300’s sales distribution over time has been fairly evenly split between the two fuel kinds. About 45% of SUV sales in January 2024 were of the gasoline variety, with the diesel and electric (XUV400) versions accounting for the remaining 55%.
The fact that the petrol versions are up to Rs 1.6 lakh less expensive than their diesel counterparts is another reason why there is probably more demand for them. This can play a big role in the decision-making process for those looking to purchase a sub-4 million SUV as opposed to those choosing larger and more expensive Mahindra SUVs like the Thar, Scorpio N, or even XUV700.
A Modernized Pair of Engines
Mahindra decided to keep supplying its sub-4 million SUV with diesel and petrol powertrains along with the makeover, but on its petrol engines, it swapped out the AMT automatic for a “proper” torque converter unit. Here are some of the available engine-gearbox combinations:
| Specification | 1.2-litre turbo-petrol | 1.2-litre TGDi turbo-petrol | 1.5-litre diesel |
| Power | 112 PS | 130 PS | 117 PS |
| Torque | 200 Nm | Up to 250 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed MT, 6-speed AT | MT and AT six-speeds | 6-speed MT, 6-speed AMT |
| Claimed Mileage | 18.89 kmpl, 17.96 kmpl | 20.1 kmpl, 18.2 kmpl | 20.6 kmpl, 21.2 kmpl |
Three drive modes are also available for the higher-spec petrol-automatic variants: Zip, Zap, and Zoom. Perhaps the popularity of the petrol-powered 3XO models has also been attributed to the option of a more sophisticated automatic powertrain combined with segment-leading performance.
Cost Range and Rivals
The starting pricing of the Mahindra XUV 3XO (ex-showroom, all of India) ranges from Rs 7.49 lakh to Rs 15.49 lakh. Its rivals include the Nissan Magnite, Hyundai Venue, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon, Renault Kiger, and the soon-to-be Skoda sub-4m SUV. Another option for sub-4 million crossovers like the Maruti Fronx and Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor is the Mahindra SUV.
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The Tata Nexon May Obtain A Panoramic Roof
With its first-in-class features, the Mahindra XUV 3XO has undoubtedly given competitors pause to think about improving their features. It appears that the Tata Nexon, which leads the segment, would be the first to react by adding a panoramic sunroof as well. This is based on a recently released internet video that shows a Nexon equipped with that feature on a factory floor.
3XO XUV Effect?
The XUV 3XO replaced the XUV300 with a makeover and came with a ton of features that led the sector to a price that was competitive for its launch. The combination of these elements explains why, in the first hour of opening the order books, Mahindra received over 50,000 bookings for its new sub-4m SUV.
Since the launch of the Mahindra XUV 3XO on April 29, 2024, Tata has already revealed new base-spec models for the Nexon that are powered by gasoline and diesel, bringing the car’s starting price closer to that of the entry-level 3XO versions. Although the inclusion of a panoramic sunroof may have been in Nexon’s development plan from the beginning, it wouldn’t be shocking if Tata decided to move forward the date of this feature’s launch in reaction to competition.
Additional anticipated changes for the Tata Nexon include advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), which are available for the XUV 3XO, Kia Sonet, and Hyundai Venue in addition to other vehicles.
Present Features of the Nexon
The Tata Nexon has many amenities, such as air purification, ventilated front seats, a 360-degree camera, wireless charging, sequential LED DRLs with welcome and goodbye functions, and a JBL sound system. Voice control is already available for the single-pane electric sunroof on the current Nexon model.
Anticipated Release
It appears that a video showing the Tata Nexon with a panoramic sunroof was leaked from the manufacturing line, raising the possibility that the revised Nexon will be released shortly. It will still compete in the same segment as the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Nissan Magnite, Renault Kiger, and the soon-to-be Skoda sub-4m SUV.
The potential of a CNG powertrain is another Nexon improvement that was formally hinted at at the Bharat Mobility Expo in February 2024. Later this year, the Nexon CNG is anticipated to debut, putting the Maruti Brezza CNG models in direct competition.
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Spy photos of the facelifted Kia Carens appear online
- Early in 2022, Kia introduced the Carens MPV in India.
- Alloy wheels, a revised grille, and new lighting are anticipated for the facelifted model.
- Anticipated to keep the current model‘s dashboard layout and dual-tone look.
- A 360-degree camera, ADAS, and dual-zone air conditioning could be among the new amenities on board.
- Most likely to come with the same set of transmissions and the same gasoline and diesel engines as the current model.
- 2025 is the anticipated introduction year in India; an EV version will follow after that year.
Since early 2022, the Kia Carens have been offered for sale in India as a more expensive and spacious substitute for the Maruti Ertiga. It has received updates in the form of new models and feature enhancements, but the recently released collection of foreign espionage photos suggests that it may soon get a proper facelift abroad.
Notable Changes
We anticipate some adjustments to be made to the exterior design of the facelifted Carens, however, it is difficult to identify for sure what has changed just yet (because of the thick camouflage). Anticipate these to be upgraded connected LED tail lights that now mimic those on the new Sonet, a reworked grille and alloy wheels, and a new headlamp configuration.
Anticipated Seat and Amenity Modifications
This collection of spy photos does not feature the facelifted Carens cabin. We anticipate Kia will keep the same 6- and 7-seat arrangements in addition to the dual-tone cabin motif. Having said that, the only significant modification might be new seat coverings and perhaps an upgraded climate control panel.
Even though the Carens is currently a well-equipped MPV, it may benefit from a panoramic sunroof and dual-zone air conditioning to further enhance its upscale interior. It already has a sunroof, wireless phone charging, ventilated front seats, and two 10.25-inch screens (one for infotainment and the other for instruments).
Regarding security, we anticipate that Kia will equip the redesigned MPV with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and a 360-degree camera. Six airbags are standard on all Carens models that are currently available in India, along with a tire pressure monitoring system, front and rear parking sensors, and a rear parking camera.
An assortment of powertrains
We think Kia will keep offering the facelifted Carens with the same engine options as the existing model, as it was intended for India. It currently has the following options for the engine and gearbox:
| Specification | 1.5-litre N/A Petrol | 1.5-litre Turbo-petrol | 1.5-litre Diesel |
| Power | 115 PS | 160 PS | 116 PS |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 253 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed MT | 6-speed iMT*, 7-speed DCT^ | 6-speed MT, 6-speed iMT, 6-speed AT |
Anticipated Release Date And Cost
Sometime in 2025, the redesigned Kia Carens is anticipated to go on sale in India; it will probably cost more than the outgoing model. To give you an idea, the ex-showroom pricing of the Carens, in its current specification, ranges from Rs 10.52 lakh to Rs 19.67 lakh. The facelifted MPV will continue to compete against the Maruti XL6, Toyota Rumion, and Toyota Innova Crysta in addition to the Maruti Ertiga. It will also function as a reasonably priced substitute for the Maruti Invicto and Toyota Innova Hycross.
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The launch of the new Maruti Fronx Delta Plus (O) variant lowers the cost of six airbags.
- Maruti Compared to the standard Delta Plus version, it comes with six airbags and a puncture repair kit.
- The cost of the six airbags with the Fronx is now Rs 1.6 lakh less than it was before the release of these new versions.
- The new Delta Plus (O) model from Maruti is available with an AMT or manual transmission.
- Delta Plus (O) is more expensive than the standard version by Rs 15,000 for both manual and automated models.
In April 2023, Maruti Fronx made its debut as a subcompact crossover in India. Up until now, Maruti has provided the Fronx in the following five general variants: Zeta, Alpha, Delta, Delta+, and Sigma. It now has an extra Delta Plus (O) type, though, and it’s limited to the 1.2-liter normally aspirated engine. Before delving into additional information, let us examine the costs of the recently released variations.
| Existing Variants | New Variants | Difference |
| Delta Plus MT- Rs 8.78 lakh | Delta Plus (O) MT – Rs 8.93 lakh | + Rs 15,000 |
| Delta Plus AMT – Rs 9.28 lakh | Delta Plus (O) AMT – Rs 9.43 lakh | + Rs 15,000 |
Optional features for the new Delta Plus (O) grade include a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT. Here, trims—manual and automatic—cost an additional Rs 15,,000.
Modernized Safety
The addition of six airbags and a puncture repair kit—features not included in the standard Delta Plus variant—to the Fronx is one of its most significant changes. It is significant to remember that the Zeta model, which costs Rs 10.56 lakh (ex-showroom), was the previous model that included the six airbags. With the release of the new Delta Plus (O) model, this functionality is now available for Rs 1.6 lakh less than it was previously.
Additional Features Available
The Fronx Delta Plus (O) model boasts a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 4-speaker sound system, automated climate control, and an IRVM (internal rearview mirror) that works both during the day and at night.
The Fronx is equipped with additional safety features such as ISOFIX child seat anchorage, electronic stability control (ESC), hill hold assist, seatbelt reminder for every seat, and 3-point seatbelts for every seat.
Powertrain
The specifications of the 1.2-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine that powers the Fronx Delta Plus (O) variant are listed below:
| Engine | 1.2-litre petrol |
| Power | 90 PS |
| Torque | 113 Nm |
| Transmission | 5-speed MT, 5-speed AMT |
The new Delta Plus (O) type, which has more safety features, is not equipped with the 1-liter turbo-petrol engine (100 PS / 148 Nm) that is an option for the ordinary Delta Plus variant.
Competitors
While it can be considered an alternative to the, the Maruti Fronx is a direct competitor of the Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor. small SUVs, such as the Nissan Magnite, Renault Kiger, Maruti Brezza, and Tata Nexon.