Diesel cars continue to attract buyers who want fuel efficiency, long-distance comfort and durability on Indian roads. With rising fuel costs, choosing the best diesel car is a practical choice for both daily commuters and highway travellers. Today, manufacturers offer diesel models that balance performance with efficiency so you can reduce running costs without compromising on reliability.
This guide takes a closer look at the diesel cars with the highest mileage, their features, engine performance and overall value. Whether you are a daily city driver or a long-distance traveller, the following models will help you find the most economical one that suits your driving needs.
List of the Best Mileage Cars in Diesel
| Car | Transmission Type | Mileage | Ex-Showroom Price |
| Hyundai Venue | Manual | 24.2 kmpl | ₹10.80 Lakh – ₹13.53 Lakh |
| Kia Sonet | Manual | 24.1 kmpl | ₹10 Lakh – ₹15.60 Lakh |
| Tata Nexon | Manual/Automatic | 23.23 – 24.08 | ₹10 Lakh – ₹15.60 Lakh |
| Mercedes-Benz C-Class | Automatic | 23 kmpl | ₹58.65 Lakh |
| Hyundai Creta | Automatic/Manual | 19.1 kmpl – 21.8 kmpl | ₹12.69 Lakh – ₹20.92 Lakh |
| Kia Seltos | Automatic/Manual | 17 kmpl – 20.7 kmpl | ₹12.77 Lakh – ₹20.56 Lakh |
| Mahindra XUV 3XO | Automatic/Manual | 17 kmpl – 20.6 kmpl | ₹9.99 Lakh – ₹14.99 Lakh |
Hyundai Venue
The Hyundai Venue has become the default choice for urban buyers who need a compact SUV with good fuel efficiency and practical features. The diesel variant gives around 24 km/l in ARAI testing, making it one of the best mileage cars in the diesel segment.
The Venue achieves this with a refined 1.5-litre diesel engine that has enough torque for city stop-go traffic and smooth highway cruising. Inside, the cabin is well laid out with an 8-inch touchscreen, connected car technology and ergonomics that suit Indian driving conditions.
It’s not just numbers on paper—drivers say the Venue is light to handle in traffic and stable at high speeds, which makes it a complete family car. The available variants of the Hyundai Venue are:
| Variant | Ex-Showroom Price |
| Venue S Plus Diesel | ₹10.80 Lakh |
| Venue SX Diesel | ₹12.46 Lakh |
| Venue SX DT Diesel | ₹12.61 Lakh |
| Venue SX Opt Diesel | ₹13.38 Lakh |
| Venue SX Opt DT Diesel | ₹13.53 Lakh |
Hyundai Venue Specifications
- Engine: 1.5L Diesel
- Transmission: Manual
- Mileage: 24.2 kmpl
- Airbags: 6
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Body Type: SUV
Kia Sonet
The Kia Sonet is all about its design and the multiple trims it offers, but the diesel is a favourite among efficiency enthusiasts. With mileage figures of around 24 km/l, the Sonet uses the same 1.5-litre CRDi engine as the Venue but with Kia’s own calibration for better responsiveness. The result is a compact SUV that feels eager and controlled on Indian roads.
The Sonet’s cabin is more premium-oriented with features like ventilated front seats, a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a crisp Bose sound system in higher trims. Beyond comfort, owners appreciate the car’s versatility, as it’s agile enough for city roads and can undertake long highway journeys without requiring frequent fuel stops.
The available variants of the Kia Sonet are:
| Variant | Ex-Showroom Price |
| Sonet HTE (O) Diesel | ₹10 Lakh |
| Sonet HTK (O) Diesel | ₹11.10 Lakh |
| Sonet HTK Plus (O) Diesel | ₹12.04 Lakh |
| Sonet HTX Diesel | ₹12.56 Lakh |
| Sonet HTX Diesel AT | ₹13.39 Lakh |
| Sonet GTX Plus Diesel AT | ₹15.60 Lakh |
Kia Sonet Specifications
- Engine: 1.5L Diesel
- Transmission: Manual
- Mileage: 24.1 kmpl
- Airbags: 6
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Body Type: SUV
Tata Nexon
The Tata Nexon diesel has built a reputation for efficiency, safety and comfort. With a mileage of around 23.23 – 24.08 km/l, the 1.5-litre Revotorq diesel engine is tuned to deliver smooth performance and is frugal. Additionally, the diesel trims are available in both manual and automatic transmission options.
Most importantly, the Nexon has a well-tuned suspension that absorbs road imperfections well, a feature loved by families and those who drive on varied Indian roads. Inside, the Nexon features a functional yet modern cabin with a 7-inch touchscreen that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, complemented by Tata’s emphasis on solid build quality.
Buyers see it as a long-term investment, with low running costs and a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating. The available variants of the Tata Nexon are:
| Variant | Ex-Showroom Price |
| Nexon Smart Plus Diesel | ₹10 Lakh |
| Nexon Smart Plus S Diesel | ₹10.30 Lakh |
| Nexon Pure Plus Diesel | ₹11 Lakh |
| Nexon Pure Plus S Diesel | ₹11.30 Lakh |
| Nexon Pure Plus Diesel AMT | ₹11.70 Lakh |
| Nexon Creative Diesel | ₹12.40 Lakh |
| Nexon Creative Plus S Diesel | ₹12.70 Lakh |
| Nexon Creative Plus S Dark Diesel | ₹13.10 Lakh |
| Nexon Creative Diesel AMT | ₹13.10 Lakh |
| Nexon Creative Plus S Diesel AMT | ₹13.40 Lakh |
| Nexon Creative Plus PS DT Diesel | ₹13.70 Lakh |
| Nexon Creative Plus S Dark Diesel AMT | ₹13.80 Lakh |
| Nexon Creative Plus PS Dark Diesel | ₹14.10 Lakh |
| Nexon Creative Plus PS DT Diesel AMT | ₹14.40 Lakh |
| Nexon Fearless Plus PS DT Diesel | ₹14.70 Lakh |
| Nexon Creative Plus PS Dark Diesel AMT | ₹14.80 Lakh |
| Nexon Fearless Plus PS Dark Diesel | ₹14.90 Lakh |
| Nexon Fearless Plus PS DT Diesel AMT | ₹15.40 Lakh |
| Nexon Fearless Plus PS Dark Diesel AMT | ₹15.60 Lakh |
Tata Nexon Specifications
- Engine: 1.5L Diesel
- Transmission: Automatic/Manual
- Mileage: 23.23 kmpl – 24.08 kmpl
- Airbags: 6
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Body Type: SUV
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
If you’re looking for a luxury diesel sedan, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers the best of both worlds – comfort and efficiency. The C 220d gives you around 23 km/l on highways, a remarkable number for a luxury car. That’s thanks to Mercedes’ 2.0-litre OM654 diesel engine with advanced turbocharging and lightweight construction.
On the road, it’s smooth and refined, perfect for executives and long-distance travellers. Inside, it wraps you in luxury materials, a digital cockpit and an intuitive MBUX infotainment system. The fact that it can give you German luxury without compromising on running costs makes it a top choice for those who want a premium badge without the premium price tag.
The available variants of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class:
| Variant | Ex-Showroom Price |
| C-Class C 220d | ₹58.65 Lakh |
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Specifications
- Engine: 2.0L Diesel
- Transmission: Automatic
- Mileage: 23 kmpl
- Airbags: 7
- Fuel Type: Diesel/Petrol
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Body Type: Sedan
Hyundai Creta
The Hyundai Creta is one of the best mid-size SUVs in India, and its diesel variant plays a significant role in that. With mileage of up to 21 km/l, the 1.5 litre diesel engine has a good balance of power and efficiency. It’s a great car for city commutes and outstation family trips.
Buyers find the Creta stands out in terms of refinement – the engine is quiet inside the cabin and the suspension is tuned for comfort and stability. The cabin is loaded with features like a panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats and a crisp infotainment system.
It’s a car that feels premium yet practical, for buyers who want a fuel-efficient SUV that doesn’t compromise on comfort or convenience. The available variants of the Hyundai Creta are:
| Variant | Ex-Showroom Price |
| Creta E Diesel | ₹12.69 Lakh |
| Creta EX Diesel | ₹13.91 Lakh |
| Creta EX (O) Diesel | ₹14.56 Lakh |
| Creta S Diesel | ₹15 Lakh |
| Creta EX (O) Diesel AT | ₹15.96 Lakh |
| Creta S (O) Diesel | ₹16.07 Lakh |
| Creta S (O) Knight Diesel | ₹16.20 Lakh |
| Creta S (O) Knight Diesel DT | ₹16.35 Lakh |
| Creta S (O) Diesel AT | ₹17.57 Lakh |
| Creta S (O) Knight Diesel AT | ₹17.70 Lakh |
| Creta SX Tech Diesel | ₹17.84 Lakh |
| Creta S (O) Knight Diesel AT DT | ₹17.85 Lakh |
| Creta SX Premium Diesel | ₹17.93 Lakh |
| Creta SX Tech Diesel DT | ₹17.99 Lakh |
| Creta SX Premium DT Diesel | ₹18.08 Lakh |
| Creta King Knight Diesel | ₹19.20 Lakh |
| Creta King Knight Diesel DT | ₹19.35 Lakh |
| Creta King Diesel | ₹19.47 Lakh |
| Creta King Diesel DT | ₹19.62 Lakh |
| Creta King Diesel AT | ₹20.42 Lakh |
| Creta King Diesel AT DT | ₹20.57 Lakh |
| Creta King Knight Diesel AT | ₹20.77 Lakh |
| Creta King Limited Edition Diesel AT | ₹20.92 Lakh |
| Creta King Knight Diesel AT DT | ₹20.92 Lakh |
Hyundai Creta Specifications
- Engine: 1.5L Diesel
- Transmission: Automatic/Manual
- Mileage: 19.1 kmpl – 21.8 kmpl
- Airbags: 6
- Fuel Type: Diesel/Petrol
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Body Type: SUV
Kia Seltos
The Kia Seltos diesel is driver-focused and fuel-efficient with up to 21 km/l mileage. Powered by a 1.5-litre CRDi diesel engine, it’s lively without being thirsty, perfect for long-distance drivers. Unlike some of its rivals, the Seltos has a sportier edge, with responsive steering and confident highway manners that many buyers love.
Inside, the Seltos sets benchmarks with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, Bose speakers and ventilated seats in higher trims, blending efficiency with comfort.
The available variants of the Kia Seltos are:
| Variant | Ex-Showroom Price |
| Seltos HTE (O) Diesel | ₹12.77 Lakh |
| Seltos HTK Diesel | ₹14.12 Lakh |
| Seltos HTK (0) Diesel | ₹14.61 Lakh |
| Seltos HTK Plus (O) Diesel | ₹16.02 Lakh |
| Seltos HTK Plus (O) Diesel AT | ₹17.28 Lakh |
| Seltos HTX Diesel | ₹17.39 Lakh |
| Seltos HTX (O) Diesel | ₹18.42 Lakh |
| Seltos HTX Diesel AT | ₹18.71 Lakh |
| Seltos GTX Plus Diesel AT | ₹20 Lakh |
| Seltos X-Line Diesel AT | ₹20.56 Lakh |
Kia Seltos Specifications
- Engine: 1.5L Diesel
- Transmission: Automatic/Manual
- Mileage: 17 kmpl – 20.7 kmpl
- Airbags: 6
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Body Type: SUV
Mahindra XUV 3XO
The Mahindra XUV 3XO (successor to XUV300) carries forward Mahindra’s legacy of strong diesel engines while improving on efficiency and technology. Expected to deliver mileage of around 22 km/l, the XUV 3XO’s diesel engine combines strong torque with better fuel efficiency. It’s suitable for city drivers who deal with traffic and those who plan highway journeys.
The SUV is designed with practicality in mind, with comfortable seating, advanced connectivity features and modern safety features like multiple airbags and electronic stability control. Buyers who have always trusted Mahindra for ruggedness now get a more refined package that doesn’t compromise on mileage.
The available variants of the Mahindra XUV 3XO are:
| Variant | Ex-Showroom Price |
| XUV 3XO MX2 Diesel | ₹9.99 Lakh |
| XUV 3XO MX2 Pro Diesel | ₹10.64 Lakh |
| XUV 3XO MX3 Diesel | ₹10.99 Lakh |
| XUV 3XO MX3 Pro Diesel | ₹11.56 Lakh |
| XUV 3XO MX3 Diesel AMT | ₹11.96 Lakh |
| XUV 3XO AX5 Diesel | ₹12.19 Lakh |
| XUV 3XO AX5 Diesel AMT | ₹12.99 Lakh |
| XUV 3XO AX7 Diesel | ₹13.89 Lakh |
| XUV 3XO AX7 Diesel AMT | ₹14.70 Lakh |
| XUV 3XO AX7 L Diesel | ₹14.99 Lakh |
Mahindra XUV 3XO Specifications
- Engine: 1.5L Diesel
- Transmission: Automatic/Manual
- Mileage: 17 kmpl – 20.6 kmpl
- Airbags: 6
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Body Type: SUV
Summary
Diesel cars are a good option for those who want long-term efficiency, strong torque and lower running costs, especially for highway usage. Models like Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon, Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Mahindra XUV 3XO and even the premium Mercedes-Benz C-Class show that good mileage doesn’t mean compromising on comfort or features.
Each has a mix of economy and everyday usability, making them practical options in various price brackets. For city users with occasional trips, compact SUVs like the Venue or Sonet make sense. Meanwhile, for frequent travellers, the Creta, Seltos, or Nexon is a more balanced option. Additionally, for luxury with efficiency, the C-Class is a refined choice. Choosing the best mileage car in diesel ultimately depends on your usage.
FAQs About the Best Diesel Cars with the Highest Mileage in India
Q. How long does a diesel engine last in Indian cars?
Diesel engines are tough. On average, a diesel engine will last around 800,000 km with proper care and maintenance. Well-maintained engines can go beyond 1,200,000 km. Commercial diesel engines are built to be tougher and may last longer than those in personal vehicles.
Q. Is it better to buy a diesel or a hybrid?
Diesel engines are good for fuel efficiency, especially on long motorway journeys. While hybrids may look more economical on paper, if most of your driving is on highways or long-distance travel, a diesel car will save more fuel and running costs in the long run.
Q. Which engine life is better, petrol or diesel?
Petrol engines have a shorter lifespan because the combustion process wears out engine components more quickly. Diesel engines are designed to last longer and are more durable, making them the ideal choice if longevity is your top priority.
Q. Which fuel type car is best: petrol or diesel?
If your driving is mostly city-based with short distances and you want a lower upfront cost, a petrol car is ideal. Meanwhile, if you drive long distances regularly and want better fuel economy, a diesel car makes more sense. Your choice depends on daily usage, budget and long-term plans.
Q. Are diesel cars good for long trips?
Yes, diesel cars are good for long-distance driving. They have higher mileage and more torque, which makes them suitable for highways and larger vehicles like 7-seaters. Additionally, diesel cars are economical for long drives and can handle heavy loads better, so they are a practical choice for frequent travellers.
