10 most affordable RWD cars in India

Rear wheel drive (RWD) cars are a rare breed in the mass market. Front-engine, front-wheel-drive (FWD) models dominate for good reason – they offer better space efficiency, are simpler to manufacture, and come with a lower price tag.  Yet, for driving enthusiasts, RWD remains the Holy Grail. The joy of sending power to the rear wheels, adjusting your line with the throttle, and experiencing a more communicative steering feel without the interference of driven front wheels is simply unmatched.

But rear wheel drive does feature in everyday cars too as the set-up offers playfulness on dirt roads and better traction in hilly terrains. So, whether you’re an enthusiast seeking an accessible taste of rear-driven fun or simply curious about what’s out there, we’ve rounded up the 10 most affordable RWD cars available today. From practical everyday options to adventure-ready SUVs, these models prove that you don’t need a supercar budget to experience the joys of RWD.

10. Toyota Fortuner

From Rs 35.37 lakh

The Toyota Fortuner, with its Rs 35.37 lakh price tag, just about makes this list. The Fortuner comes with petrol and diesel engine options in 2WD form, and while the petrol version has an automatic gearbox only, the diesels get manual and automatic options. Regardless of whether one picks the RWD or 4WD version, the Fortuner boasts of a tough build, a rugged image and spacious interiors, though the cabin doesn’t feel special enough.

9. Mahindra XEV 9e

From Rs 21.90 lakh

The Mahindra XEV 9e is the first of two born EVs that the Indian brand has launched, and it comes with two battery pack options – the larger 79kWh pack having an MIDC range of up to 656km. Both battery options come with rear wheel drive as standard, and 0-100kph takes a claimed 6.8 seconds when the coupe-SUV is powered by the larger battery and the 286hp motor. Our XEV 9e review found that the dazzling array of tech is a big draw and the EV is great to drive. However, the restricted view out the rear is a major ergonomic flaw.

8. Isuzu D-Max

From Rs 21.49 lakh onwards

The Isuzu D-Max pickup truck is built to haul cargo over most terrain, but it doubles up as a lifestyle vehicle as well. On sale in Hi-Lander and V-Cross trims – both in double cab form – the D-Max is a tough-as-nails model, though it does feel its size in the city, and is expensive. Still, the pickup is among the most affordable cars on sale with a rear wheel drive configuration; the more expensive V Cross also gets a 4WD option, though only with a manual transmission.

7. Toyota Innova Crysta

From Rs 19.99 lakh

The Toyota Innova Crysta may be targeted more at the fleet market after the launch of the Hycross, but the MPV continues to draw in sizeable numbers in terms of sales. The MPV is available in 7- and 8-seat form, boasts of excellent space and practicality, and a worry-free ownership experience; the steering wheel is on the heavier side, though.

6. Mahindra BE 6

From Rs 18.90 lakh onwards

The Mahindra BE 6 shares its battery and powertrain options with the XEV 9e, and because it is smaller and weighs less, it is marginally quicker and has a slightly longer range. It rivals the Hyundai Creta Electric, Tata Curvv EV and MG ZS EV and is loaded with features and tech. It offers strong performance, especially in Pack Three guise, where it gets the 79kWh battery and 286hp rear wheel-mounted motor. On the other hand, the BE 6’s cabin ergonomics are not the friendliest, and the infotainment system can be confusing to use.

5. Mahindra Scorpio range

From Rs 13.62 lakh onwards

The Mahindra Scorpio Classic and Scorpio N may not share a platform according to the brand, but the two SUVs offer a similar proposition – a spacious, tough 7-seater with smooth and powerful engines. The Scorpio N’s third row seating and boot area aren’t the best designed, while the Classic’s features list lags behind in this day and age. Unlike the Classic, the Scorpio N also comes with an AWD option on diesel-powered variants. There are up to Rs 1.25 lakh worth of discounts on the Scorpio range this month, and waiting periods now stretch to two and a half months.

4. Mahindra Thar range

From Rs 11.50 lakh onwards

The Mahindra Thar 3-door and Thar Roxx 5-door SUV are available in RWD and 4x4 form, but only the 3-door model gets the smaller 1.5-litre diesel engine; the 2.2-litre diesel engine on the Thar is available in 4x4 form only. Both are rough-and-tough lifestyle vehicles, with the Roxx offering more practicality and space, having strong engines and genuine off-road ability. However, top-spec Thar variants are pricey and the 3-door model also has a bouncy ride quality, while the Roxx is not as user friendly as monocoque SUV rivals.

3. Mahindra Bolero range

From Rs 9.79 lakh onwards

Mahindra’s workhorse, the Bolero, and the rebranded TUV300 that’s now on sale as the Bolero Neo, are available in RWD form only. Both sub-4-metre 7-seaters get a 1.5-litre three-cylinder diesel engine, and a manual gearbox only. While both models do feel like built-to-last and hardy, the Neo misses out on features now seen on many compact SUVs, while the Bolero feels outdated. Bolero and Bolero Neo discounts are to the tune of Rs 1.4 lakh in March.

2. MG Comet

From Rs 7 lakh onwards

The small, manoeuvrable two-door EV makes the most of its tall-boy design to liberate interior room, and its cabin also feels upmarket. On the other hand, the MG Comet doesn't feel like a full-grown car, and has a crashy ride. The rear axle-mounted 42hp motor helps the Comet be quick enough around town, but it will feel overwhelmed on the highway. MG Motor India recently introduced an all-black Comet Blackstorm, at Rs 9.81 lakh.

1. Maruti Eeco

From Rs 5.44 lakh onwards

Maruti Suzuki’s van still leaves its mark on the sales charts, despite being basic in every way and having an image as a taxi or fleet model. Still, the Maruti Eeco, which is currently the most affordable RWD car in India, excels at offering low running costs, and more than ample luggage space. Interestingly, the Eeco shares its 1.2-litre petrol engine with the Ignis and Wagon R, but it's mounted longitudinally rather than transversely.

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