India’s diverse terrain, from bustling city streets to rugged rural paths, demands vehicles that can handle uneven roads, potholes, and occasional flooding. For budget-conscious buyers, finding a car under Rs 10 lakh with high ground clearance is a priority to ensure versatility and durability. High ground clearance—typically 180 mm or more—helps vehicles navigate speed breakers, monsoon-soaked roads, and off-road conditions without scraping the underbody. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the top 10 cars under Rs 10 lakh in India for 2025 that offer excellent ground clearance, along with their prices in metro cities, variants, key features, pros, cons, and more. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking for a practical family car, this blog will help you make an informed decision.
Why High Ground Clearance Matters in India
High ground clearance is a critical factor for Indian car buyers due to:
- Poor Road Conditions: Many Indian roads, especially in semi-urban and rural areas, are riddled with potholes, loose gravel, or uneven surfaces.
- Monsoon Challenges: Flooded streets during the rainy season require vehicles with sufficient clearance to avoid water damage.
- Speed Breakers: Unregulated speed bumps in residential areas and highways can damage low-slung cars.
- Versatility: Cars with high ground clearance are better suited for occasional off-road trips or rural drives.
For budget buyers, cars under Rs 10 lakh strike a balance between affordability, practicality, and performance. Let’s dive into the top models available in 2025 that meet these criteria.
Top 10 Cars Under Rs 10 Lakh With High Ground Clearance
Below is a detailed breakdown of the best cars under Rs 10 lakh with high ground clearance in India for 2025. Prices are ex-showroom in metro cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai), and we’ve included variants, key features, and pros/cons for each model.
1. Maruti Suzuki Fronx
Ground Clearance: 190 mm
Price Range (Ex-Showroom, Metro Cities): Rs 7.52 lakh – Rs 9.98 lakh
Variants: Sigma, Delta, Delta+, Alpha
Key Features:
- 1.2L petrol engine (89 bhp) or 1.0L turbo-petrol (99 bhp)
- 5-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, or AMT
- 9-inch touchscreen infotainment with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
- LED headlamps, wireless charging, cruise control
- 6 airbags (top variants), ABS with EBD, hill-hold assist
- Fuel Efficiency: 20-22 kmpl (petrol), 28 kmpl (CNG)
Overview: The Maruti Suzuki Fronx is a crossover SUV with a sleek design and robust ground clearance, making it ideal for urban and semi-rural drives. Its compact dimensions (3,995 mm length) ensure easy parking, while the 190 mm ground clearance handles rough roads effortlessly. The turbo-petrol engine offers peppy performance, and the CNG option enhances fuel economy.
Pros:
- Stylish design with premium interiors
- Multiple engine and transmission options
- Reliable Maruti service network
- Affordable maintenance
Cons:
- Rear legroom is average for tall passengers
- Base variants lack premium features
- Turbo-petrol fuel efficiency is lower (18-20 kmpl)
Best For: Young buyers seeking a stylish, versatile car for city and occasional off-road use.
2. Hyundai Exter
Ground Clearance: 185 mm
Price Range (Ex-Showroom, Metro Cities): Rs 6.13 lakh – Rs 9.82 lakh
Variants: EX, S, SX, SX(O)
Key Features:
- 1.2L petrol engine (82 bhp) or CNG option
- 5-speed manual or AMT
- 8-inch touchscreen, digital driver’s display
- Sunroof, wireless charging, paddle shifters
- 6 airbags, TPMS, rear parking camera
- Fuel Efficiency: 19-21 kmpl (petrol), 27 kmpl (CNG)
Overview: The Hyundai Exter is a micro-SUV designed for buyers seeking a feature-packed car with decent ground clearance. Its 185 mm clearance is sufficient for most Indian roads, and the compact size makes it a breeze to drive in traffic. The Exter’s bold styling and premium features like a sunroof make it a standout in its segment.
Pros:
- Feature-rich even in mid-variants
- Smooth AMT for city driving
- Compact yet spacious cabin
- Hyundai’s build quality
Cons:
- No diesel or turbo-petrol option
- Slightly underpowered for highway drives
- CNG variant has limited boot space
Best For: Families and urban commuters looking for a feature-loaded, compact SUV.
3. Tata Punch
Ground Clearance: 187 mm
Price Range (Ex-Showroom, Metro Cities): Rs 6.13 lakh – Rs 9.49 lakh
Variants: Pure, Adventure, Accomplished, Creative
Key Features:
- 1.2L petrol engine (87 bhp) or CNG
- 5-speed manual or AMT
- 7-inch touchscreen, semi-digital driver’s display
- Auto climate control, rain-sensing wipers
- Dual airbags, traction control, iTPMS
- Fuel Efficiency: 18-20 kmpl (petrol), 26 kmpl (CNG)
Overview: The Tata Punch is a micro-SUV with rugged styling and a 187 mm ground clearance, making it a favorite for buyers tackling tough terrains. Its high safety rating (5-star Global NCAP) and affordable pricing make it a value-for-money choice. The Punch’s boxy design maximizes interior space, though the engine feels underpowered on highways.
Pros:
- Excellent safety credentials
- Spacious cabin and boot (366 liters)
- Rugged design for off-road appeal
- Affordable pricing
Cons:
- Engine lacks punch for spirited driving
- AMT feels sluggish
- Base variants are basic
Best For: Budget buyers prioritizing safety and ruggedness.
4. Renault Kiger
Ground Clearance: 205 mm
Price Range (Ex-Showroom, Metro Cities): Rs 6.00 lakh – Rs 9.96 lakh
Variants: RXE, RXL, RXT, RXZ
Key Features:
- 1.0L naturally aspirated (71 bhp) or turbo-petrol (99 bhp)
- 5-speed manual, AMT, or CVT
- 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
- Digital driver’s display, ambient lighting
- 4 airbags, rear parking sensors
- Fuel Efficiency: 19-21 kmpl (petrol)
Overview: The Renault Kiger boasts the highest ground clearance in this list at 205 mm, making it a top pick for rough roads and mild off-roading. Its bold design, turbo-petrol option, and feature-rich cabin make it appealing to young buyers. The Kiger’s 405-liter boot is segment-leading, though the naturally aspirated engine feels underpowered.
Pros:
- Highest ground clearance in the segment
- Spacious boot and cabin
- Turbo engine offers good performance
- Competitive pricing
Cons:
- Base engine is underpowered
- Interior plastics feel cheap
- CVT is slow to respond
Best For: Buyers seeking a budget SUV for rural or semi-urban roads.
5. Nissan Magnite
Ground Clearance: 205 mm
Price Range (Ex-Showroom, Metro Cities): Rs 6.00 lakh – Rs 9.99 lakh
Variants: XE, XL, XV, XV Premium
Key Features:
- 1.0L naturally aspirated (71 bhp) or turbo-petrol (99 bhp)
- 5-speed manual or CVT
- 8-inch touchscreen, wireless charging
- 360-degree camera, cruise control
- 4 airbags, hill-start assist
- Fuel Efficiency: 18-20 kmpl (petrol)
Overview: The Nissan Magnite is a close cousin to the Renault Kiger, sharing the same 205 mm ground clearance and platform. Its bold design, premium features like a 360-degree camera, and turbo-petrol engine make it a strong contender. The Magnite offers excellent value, though its service network is limited compared to Maruti or Hyundai.
Pros:
- High ground clearance and bold styling
- Feature-packed top variants
- Turbo engine is peppy
- Large boot (336 liters)
Cons:
- Limited service network
- Base engine lacks power
- Cabin quality could be better
Best For: Style-conscious buyers willing to compromise on service reach.
6. Maruti Suzuki Ignis
Ground Clearance: 180 mm
Price Range (Ex-Showroom, Metro Cities): Rs 5.84 lakh – Rs 8.11 lakh
Variants: Sigma, Delta, Zeta, Alpha
Key Features:
- 1.2L petrol engine (82 bhp)
- 5-speed manual or AMT
- 7-inch touchscreen, Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
- LED headlamps, auto climate control
- Dual airbags, ABS with EBD
- Fuel Efficiency: 20-21 kmpl
Overview: The Maruti Suzuki Ignis is a quirky crossover hatchback with a 180 mm ground clearance, suitable for city commutes and light off-road duties. Its compact size and peppy engine make it ideal for urban buyers, while the AMT option adds convenience. However, its polarising design may not appeal to everyone.
Pros:
- Compact and easy to park
- Fuel-efficient engine
- Maruti’s extensive service network
- Affordable pricing
Cons:
- Polarising design
- Limited rear legroom
- Fewer features than rivals
Best For: Urban buyers seeking a compact, fuel-efficient car.
7. Citroen C3
Ground Clearance: 180 mm
Price Range (Ex-Showroom, Metro Cities): Rs 6.16 lakh – Rs 9.12 lakh
Variants: Live, Feel, Shine
Key Features:
- 1.2L naturally aspirated (80 bhp) or turbo-petrol (109 bhp)
- 5-speed manual or 6-speed manual
- 10.2-inch touchscreen, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
- Customizable exterior colors
- Dual airbags, hill-hold assist
- Fuel Efficiency: 19-20 kmpl
Overview: The Citroen C3 is a crossover hatchback with a unique design and 180 mm ground clearance. Its spacious cabin and turbo-petrol option make it a practical choice, though the lack of an automatic variant is a drawback. The C3’s bold styling and customization options appeal to younger buyers.
Pros:
- Spacious and comfortable cabin
- Turbo engine is powerful
- Unique design
- Decent boot space (315 liters)
Cons:
- No automatic option
- Limited service network
- Base variants lack features
Best For: Buyers seeking a distinctive car with good performance.
8. Mahindra KUV100 NXT
Ground Clearance: 170 mm (with aftermarket adjustments up to 180 mm)
Price Range (Ex-Showroom, Metro Cities): Rs 6.21 lakh – Rs 8.25 lakh
Variants: K2+, K4+, K6+, K8
Key Features:
- 1.2L petrol engine (82 bhp) or CNG
- 5-speed manual
- 7-inch touchscreen, daytime running lights
- Micro-hybrid technology
- Dual airbags, ABS with EBD
- Fuel Efficiency: 18-20 kmpl
Overview: The Mahindra KUV100 NXT is a compact SUV with a boxy design and a ground clearance that can be enhanced to 180 mm with aftermarket tweaks. Its rugged build and micro-hybrid tech make it a practical choice, though the dated design and limited features are drawbacks.
Pros:
- Rugged build quality
- Spacious cabin
- Affordable pricing
- Mahindra’s off-road pedigree
Cons:
- Dated design and features
- No automatic option
- Average fuel efficiency
Best For: Buyers seeking a rugged budget SUV for rural areas.
9. Toyota Urban Cruiser
Ground Clearance: 185 mm
Price Range (Ex-Showroom, Metro Cities): Rs 7.74 lakh – Rs 9.99 lakh
Variants: E, S, S+, G
Key Features:
- 1.2L petrol engine (89 bhp) or 1.0L turbo-petrol (99 bhp)
- 5-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, or AMT
- 9-inch touchscreen, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
- LED headlamps, push-button start
- 6 airbags, ABS with EBD
- Fuel Efficiency: 20-22 kmpl (petrol), 28 kmpl (CNG)
Overview: The Toyota Urban Cruiser, a rebadged Maruti Fronx, offers a 185 mm ground clearance and Toyota’s reliability. Its premium features and multiple powertrain options make it a strong contender, though it’s slightly pricier than the Fronx.
Pros:
- Toyota’s brand reliability
- Premium features
- Multiple engine options
- Good resale value
Cons:
- Pricier than Maruti Fronx
- Rear space is average
- Limited service network compared to Maruti
Best For: Buyers prioritizing brand reliability and premium features.
10. Kia Sonet (Base Variants)
Ground Clearance: 205 mm
Price Range (Ex-Showroom, Metro Cities): Rs 7.99 lakh – Rs 9.99 lakh (base variants)
Variants: HTE, HTK
Key Features:
- 1.2L petrol engine (82 bhp)
- 5-speed manual
- 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
- LED headlamps, auto climate control
- 6 airbags, TPMS
- Fuel Efficiency: 18-19 kmpl
Overview: The Kia Sonet’s base variants sneak under Rs 10 lakh, offering a 205 mm ground clearance and premium features. Its bold design and Kia’s build quality make it a compelling choice, though the base engine is underpowered, and higher variants exceed the budget.
Pros:
- High ground clearance
- Premium design and features
- Spacious cabin
- Kia’s warranty and build quality
Cons:
- Base engine lacks power
- Higher variants are pricier
- No CNG option
Best For: Buyers seeking a premium subcompact SUV on a budget.
Comparison Table: Cars Under Rs 10 Lakh With High Ground Clearance
| Car Model | Ground Clearance | Price Range (Rs Lakh) | Engine Options | Fuel Efficiency (kmpl) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maruti Suzuki Fronx | 190 mm | 7.52 – 9.98 | Petrol, Turbo, CNG | 20-28 | Sunroof, 6 airbags, touchscreen |
| Hyundai Exter | 185 mm | 6.13 – 9.82 | Petrol, CNG | 19-27 | Sunroof, digital display |
| Tata Punch | 187 mm | 6.13 – 9.49 | Petrol, CNG | 18-26 | 5-star NCAP, touchscreen |
| Renault Kiger | 205 mm | 6.00 – 9.96 | Petrol, Turbo | 19-21 | 360-degree camera, large boot |
| Nissan Magnite | 205 mm | 6.00 – 9.99 | Petrol, Turbo | 18-20 | Wireless charging, bold design |
| Maruti Suzuki Ignis | 180 mm | 5.84 – 8.11 | Petrol | 20-21 | Compact, fuel-efficient |
| Citroen C3 | 180 mm | 6.16 – 9.12 | Petrol, Turbo | 19-20 | Customizable, spacious cabin |
| Mahindra KUV100 NXT | 170-180 mm | 6.21 – 8.25 | Petrol, CNG | 18-20 | Rugged build, micro-hybrid |
| Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor | 185 mm | 7.74 – 9.99 | Petrol, Turbo, CNG | 20-28 | Premium features, reliability |
| Kia Sonet (Base) | 205 mm | 7.99 – 9.99 | Petrol | 18-19 | Premium design, 6 airbags |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Car With High Ground Clearance
- Ground Clearance: Aim for at least 180 mm for Indian roads. Higher clearance (200 mm+) is ideal for rural or off-road use.
- Engine and Performance: Turbo-petrol engines offer better performance but lower fuel efficiency. CNG options are economical for high-mileage users.
- Features: Look for essentials like touchscreen infotainment, airbags, and ABS. Premium features like sunroofs or 360-degree cameras are bonuses.
- Fuel Efficiency: Important for daily commuters. CNG variants offer the best running costs.
- Service Network: Brands like Maruti and Hyundai have widespread service centers, while Citroen and Nissan have limited reach.
- Budget: Factor in on-road prices, insurance, and maintenance costs, which vary by city.
On-Road Prices in Metro Cities (Approximate)
On-road prices include ex-showroom price, RTO, insurance, and other charges. Below are approximate on-road prices for the base and top variants in metro cities (as of 2025):
- Maruti Suzuki Fronx: Rs 8.5 lakh (base) – Rs 11.5 lakh (top)
- Hyundai Exter: Rs 7.0 lakh (base) – Rs 11.0 lakh (top)
- Tata Punch: Rs 7.0 lakh (base) – Rs 10.8 lakh (top)
- Renault Kiger: Rs 6.8 lakh (base) – Rs 11.2 lakh (top)
- Nissan Magnite: Rs 6.8 lakh (base) – Rs 11.3 lakh (top)
- Maruti Suzuki Ignis: Rs 6.5 lakh (base) – Rs 9.2 lakh (top)
- Citroen C3: Rs 7.0 lakh (base) – Rs 10.5 lakh (top)
- Mahindra KUV100 NXT: Rs 7.0 lakh (base) – Rs 9.5 lakh (top)
- Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor: Rs 8.8 lakh (base) – Rs 11.5 lakh (top)
- Kia Sonet (Base Variants): Rs 9.0 lakh (base) – Rs 11.0 lakh (top)
Note: Prices vary by city due to differences in RTO charges and insurance. Check with local dealers for exact figures.
FAQs About Cars Under Rs 10 Lakh With High Ground Clearance
Q1. What is the ideal ground clearance for Indian roads?
A: A ground clearance of 180 mm or higher is ideal for Indian roads, as it handles potholes, speed breakers, and minor flooding effectively. For rural or off-road use, aim for 200 mm or more.
Q2. Which car under Rs 10 lakh has the highest ground clearance?
A: The Renault Kiger and Nissan Magnite both offer 205 mm ground clearance, the highest in this segment.
Q3. Are CNG cars a good option for high ground clearance vehicles?
A: Yes, CNG variants like the Maruti Suzuki Fronx, Hyundai Exter, and Tata Punch offer excellent fuel economy (25-28 kmpl) and decent ground clearance, making them cost-effective for daily commuters.
Q4. Which car offers the best safety features under Rs 10 lakh?
A: The Tata Punch stands out with a 5-star Global NCAP rating. Other models like the Kia Sonet and Maruti Suzuki Fronx offer 6 airbags in higher variants.
Q5. Can I get a sunroof in cars under Rs 10 lakh?
A: Yes, the Hyundai Exter, Maruti Suzuki Fronx, and Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor offer sunroofs in their mid-to-top variants within this budget.
Q6. Which brand has the best service network for these cars?
A: Maruti Suzuki has the most extensive service network in India, followed by Hyundai and Tata. Brands like Citroen and Nissan have limited reach, which may be a concern in smaller cities.
Final Thoughts: Which Car Should You Choose?
Choosing the right car under Rs 10 lakh with high ground clearance depends on your priorities:
- Best Overall: Maruti Suzuki Fronx for its style, features, and versatility.
- Best Safety: Tata Punch for its 5-star NCAP rating and rugged build.
- Best Value: Renault Kiger and Nissan Magnite for high ground clearance and features at a low price.
- Best for Features: Hyundai Exter for its premium features like a sunroof and digital display.
- Best for Reliability: Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor for Toyota’s brand trust.
Each car on this list offers a unique blend of practicality, performance, and affordability. Visit your nearest dealership to test drive these models and compare their on-road performance.
Ready to hit the road with a high-clearance car that fits your budget? Book a test drive today at your nearest Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Tata, Renault, or Kia dealership to experience these vehicles firsthand. Share this guide with friends and family looking for a budget-friendly SUV or hatchback, and let us know in the comments which car you’re leaning toward! For the latest updates on car launches and reviews, subscribe to our blog or follow us on social media.
