The cheapest and most kick-ass compact SUVs Indians can buy

With the weekend just round the corner, Mahindra has launched their new sub 4 meter Compact SUV – the TUV 300. Tough or not, there is no denying the most recent category creation that has been shaking up the Indian auto market.

The Compact SUV segment is primarily driven by the urban professional who demands a sleek package to ride to office and traditional SUV brawns when he zips his girlfriend/family for that adventurous weekend trip. Given that there is serious money to be made here, car manufacturers have obliged.

Business Insider India shortlists the cheapest and best sub 4 meter Compact SUVs that would ensure your weekends are a breeze.

Renault Duster

The base version of the Renault Duster is priced at Rs 8.30 lakhs (ex-showroom New Delhi). While this one may not be the cheapest, it’s definitely the most VFM (value-for-money, Silly!).The all-wheel-drive is powered by a 1.5-litre K9K diesel mill that churns 85 BHP of power.

The other impressive features are power steering, independent rear A/C controls, power windows, electrically adjustable ORVMs among others. On the safety front all the regular suspects like ABS, ESP, ASR etc. continue to be offered.

Hyundai i20 Active

The base version of the Hyundai i20 Active from the Korean auto-maker’s stable costs as little as 6.47 lakhs (ex-showroom New Delhi). This cross-over from at Hyundai Motor's Design Centre Europe in Russelsheim, Germany looks more stout and the spoilers, roof rails, added ground clearance and16-inch diamond cut alloy wheels only help enhance its outgoing looks.

Ford EcoSport

The Ford EcoSport is what started it all. Starting at 6.75 lakhs (ex-showroom New Delhi) for the 1499cc Petrol version, the Ambiente 1.5 Ti-VCT returns 15.8 kmpl – not bad.

While it may seem dated to some, there is no denying that its sporty personality makes it one of the best crossovers in the country. This one is set to attract young car buyers looking for the SUV feel without the trouble of taming a beast in the garage.

Mahindra TUV300

Mahindra insists TUV stands for ‘Tough Utility Vehicle’. No wonder it’s design was inspired by a battle tank. The desi car manufacturer insists this is their first real go at the sub 4 meter segment after the failed Quanto.

The loud and bold grille with chrome inserts, imposing bumpers, static bending headlamps, stylish ski racks and sporty alloy wheels take a leaf out of modern jeeps. The TUV doesn’t look like a cheap car, and has borrowed several design elements from its elder siblings – the Scorpio and XUV 500, and that’s a good thing.

This one is definitely not the sleekest option to ride to office, but if you want to go all out with the ‘bad boy’ feel, take a look.