Top Compact SUVs in India: A Guide for 2025

The compact SUV segment in India continues to dominate the automotive market, combining the versatility of an SUV with the practicality required for urban commutes. With cutting-edge technology, advanced safety features, and competitive pricing, compact SUVs have become the go-to choice for Indian car buyers. Let’s take a look at 15 of the top compact SUVs in India for 2025.

1. Maruti Suzuki Brezza

The Maruti Suzuki Brezza has been a consistent performer in the Indian market, thanks to its reliability and fuel efficiency. The latest model comes equipped with a 1.5L K-Series Dual Jet petrol engine, smart hybrid technology, and a host of modern features like a 9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ touchscreen, wireless charging, and a sunroof. Its robust build and competitive pricing make it a favorite among Indian families.

Key Highlights:

• Engine: 1.5L Petrol with Smart Hybrid
• Mileage: 20+ km/l
• Features: Wireless charging, 6 airbags, SmartPlay Pro+ system

2. Hyundai Creta

The Hyundai Creta has set benchmarks in the compact SUV category with its futuristic design and tech-loaded interiors. The 2025 version offers a 1.5L petrol and diesel engine, with an optional turbo-petrol variant. Its standout features include a panoramic sunroof, Bose sound system, ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), and a large 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster.

Key Highlights:

• Engine: 1.5L Petrol, Diesel, and Turbo options
• Mileage: 17-21 km/l
• Features: ADAS, panoramic sunroof, Bose sound system

3. Tata Nexon

Known for its stellar safety ratings and bold design, the Tata Nexon remains a top choice for safety-conscious buyers. The 2025 Nexon comes with a revamped design, a new 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a suite of safety features, including 6 airbags and electronic stability control. It is also available in an EV version for eco-conscious buyers.

Key Highlights:

• Engine: 1.2L Petrol, 1.5L Diesel
• Mileage: 18-24 km/l
• Features: 5-star Global NCAP rating, EV variant, modern interiors

4. Kia Seltos

The refreshed Kia Seltos has made waves with its premium features and powerful engine options. The car is available with a 1.5L NA petrol, a 1.5L diesel, and a 1.4L turbo-petrol engine. The 2025 version includes Level 2 ADAS, a panoramic sunroof, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, and ventilated seats, making it a top contender in the segment.

Key Highlights:

• Engine: Multiple options (NA Petrol, Diesel, Turbo-Petrol)
• Mileage: 17-20 km/l
• Features: Level 2 ADAS, ventilated seats, Bose sound system

5. Mahindra XUV300

Mahindra’s XUV300 offers a perfect blend of power, safety, and comfort. With its 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP, it is one of the safest compact SUVs in India. The car is powered by a 1.2L turbo-petrol and a 1.5L diesel engine, delivering a peppy performance. It also boasts features like a dual-zone climate control system and a sunroof.

Key Highlights:

• Engine: 1.2L Turbo-Petrol, 1.5L Diesel
• Mileage: 17-20 km/l
• Features: 5-star safety rating, dual-zone climate control, premium interiors

6. Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder

Toyota’s Urban Cruiser Hyryder brings hybrid technology to the compact SUV space, promising exceptional fuel efficiency and lower emissions. With a 1.5L hybrid petrol engine, the Hyryder is a strong choice for those looking for greener alternatives. It also includes features like a 360-degree camera, connected car tech, and a head-up display.

Key Highlights:

• Engine: 1.5L Petrol-Hybrid
• Mileage: 25+ km/l
• Features: 360-degree camera, head-up display, hybrid efficiency

7. MG Astor

The MG Astor stands out with its AI-powered personal assistant and advanced safety features. Powered by a 1.5L petrol and a 1.3L turbo-petrol engine, it delivers a refined driving experience. The Astor also offers a panoramic sunroof, Level 2 ADAS, and premium leather interiors.

Key Highlights:

• Engine: 1.5L Petrol, 1.3L Turbo-Petrol
• Mileage: 16-18 km/l
• Features: AI personal assistant, Level 2 ADAS, premium interiors

8. Renault Kiger

The Renault Kiger is an affordable yet feature-rich compact SUV. Powered by a 1.0L turbo-petrol engine, it offers sporty handling and a modern design. It includes an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a 4-star Global NCAP safety rating.

Key Highlights:

• Engine: 1.0L Turbo-Petrol
• Mileage: 18-20 km/l
• Features: Wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, 4-star safety rating

9. Nissan Magnite

The Nissan Magnite shares its platform with the Renault Kiger but comes with unique styling and features. It is powered by a 1.0L petrol engine with both naturally aspirated and turbocharged options. Key features include a 360-degree camera, wireless charging, and an 8-inch infotainment system.

Key Highlights:

• Engine: 1.0L Petrol, Turbo-Petrol
• Mileage: 18-20 km/l
• Features: 360-degree camera, wireless charging

10. Volkswagen Taigun

The Volkswagen Taigun is part of VW’s India 2.0 strategy and stands out for its premium build quality. It is available with 1.0L and 1.5L TSI petrol engines and features a 10-inch infotainment system, ventilated seats, and a digital cockpit.

Key Highlights:

• Engine: 1.0L and 1.5L TSI Petrol
• Mileage: 17-20 km/l
• Features: Digital cockpit, ventilated seats

11. Skoda Kushaq

The Skoda Kushaq shares its underpinnings with the Volkswagen Taigun but comes with Skoda’s signature design elements. It offers a spacious cabin, powerful engines, and a comfortable ride.

Key Highlights:

• Engine: 1.0L and 1.5L TSI Petrol
• Mileage: 17-20 km/l
• Features: Skoda design, powerful engines

12. Mahindra Thar

Though more rugged and off-road-focused, the Mahindra Thar’s compact dimensions make it suitable for city use as well. It offers a 2.0L turbo-petrol and a 2.2L diesel engine, along with 4×4 capability.

Key Highlights:

• Engine: 2.0L Turbo-Petrol, 2.2L Diesel
• Mileage: 14-16 km/l
• Features: 4×4, rugged design

13. Honda Elevate

Honda’s newest entrant in the compact SUV segment, the Elevate, boasts a 1.5L i-VTEC petrol engine, Honda Sensing safety suite, and a spacious cabin. It is designed for comfort and practicality.

Key Highlights:

• Engine: 1.5L i-VTEC Petrol
• Mileage: 16-18 km/l
• Features: Honda Sensing, spacious interiors

14. Maruti Suzuki Fronx

The Fronx, a crossover by Maruti Suzuki, combines hatchback dynamics with SUV aesthetics. It offers a 1.0L Boosterjet turbo-petrol engine and advanced features like a 360-degree camera.

Key Highlights:

• Engine: 1.0L Boosterjet Turbo-Petrol
• Mileage: 20+ km/l
• Features: Compact crossover design, 360-degree camera

15. Citroën C3 Aircross

The Citroën C3 Aircross brings French flair to the compact SUV segment with its unique design and comfort-focused interiors. It offers a 1.2L turbo-petrol engine and modular seating options.

Key Highlights:

• Engine: 1.2L Turbo-Petrol
• Mileage: 18-20 km/l
• Features: Modular seating, unique styling

Final Thoughts

The compact SUV market in India offers something for everyone, from fuel-efficient hybrids to tech-loaded turbocharged models. Whether you prioritize safety, features, or performance, these 15 top compact SUVs of 2025 cater to a wide range of preferences and budgets. With innovation at its peak, the competition in this segment is only set to grow, offering buyers a plethora of choices.