Best rugged 7-seat diesel-automatic SUVs under Rs 35 lakh

5. Mitsubishi Pajero Sport            6/10

It isn’t surprising that this SUV feels dated compared to its rivals, seeing as it hasn’t changed much since the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport launched in India back in 2012. Still, the 178hp, 2.5-litre diesel motor has punch, the 5-speed gearbox is fairly nice, and the Mitsubishi a very capable off-roader. Unfortunately, you can’t have the excellent 4WD drive system with the auto ‘box; it is restricted to the manual option.

4. Isuzu MU-X                 6/10

The Isuzu MU-X is well-priced, has a spacious cabin with a usable third row, and feels like it is built to last. The exteriors and the interiors are decent, though are lacking a sense of occasion. While it has one of the largest engines (a 177hp, 3.0-litre motor), it comes across as lacking in punch and is noisy besides. The Isuzu’s slow 5-speed gearbox, heavy steering and bouncy high-speed ride also work against it.

3. Toyota Fortuner          7/10

Almost the default choice among seven-seat SUVs, the Toyota Fortuner’s proven reliability and unbeatable resale value make it the crowd favourite, despite its relatively premium price. The Toyota is an able off-roader and the comfiest in its segment for seven passengers. However, average refinement and mediocre cabin quality mark it down.

2. Ford Endeavour           8/10

A recent facelift has kept the tough Endeavour fresh – both inside and out – and it has got more equipment now as well. It’s the only SUV in its segment to get two diesel-automatic options: the 160hp, 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine is nice, while the 200hp, 3.2-litre five-cylinder turbo-diesel is far punchier, if a touch noisier. The Ford Endeavour makes for an almost complete SUV – if only the third row was better.

1. Mahindra Alturas G4       8/10

The Alturas G4 is Mahindra’s most premium SUV yet. Essentially a rebadged SsangYong Rexton, the Alturas G4 is large, luxurious and rather well equipped too. The SUV further endears itself with its quiet and refined 2.2-litre diesel engine, and performance is impressive as well. The Mahindra Alturas G4 is not the most hardcore SUV for the money and third row isn’t the best, but for the average luxury SUV buyer, it does the job really well.