India’s diverse landscape is a paradise for off-road enthusiasts. From rugged mountains to dense forests and desert trails, the country offers plenty of terrain where regular vehicles simply can’t perform. That’s where off-road cars come into play. Off-road cars can help you tackle situations with the power, performance, and durability needed to give you complete control, even in challenging conditions such as slushy roads or rocky terrain.
In this article, we will talk about some of the best off-road cars in India in 2025 and discuss how car services like ceramic coating and PPF for cars (Paint Protection Film) can further enhance the life and look of your adventure vehicle.
Top 10 Off-Road Cars in India
1. Force Gurkha
The Force Gurkha is an off-road vehicle made and built with a military-inspired appearance. Packed with a factory-fitted snorkel and mechanically locking differentials, the Gurkha is an off-roader for extreme usage.
Specifications:
- Engine: 2.6L Diesel
- Power: 91 hp @ 3200 rpm
- Torque: 250 Nm @ 1400–2400 rpm
- Drivetrain: 4×4 with Manual Locking Differentials
- Ground Clearance: 205 mm
- Water Wading Depth: 700 mm
2. Mahindra Thar
The new generation Mahindra Thar is the most well-known lifestyle off-roader in India. It is rugged, with a built-for-purpose chassis, 4×4 drivetrain, and off-roading capabilities with modern features.
Specifications:
- Engine: 2.0L Petrol / 2.2L Diesel
- Power: 150 hp (Petrol), 130 hp (Diesel)
- Torque: 300–320 Nm
- Drivetrain: 4×4 with Low Range Gearbox
- Ground Clearance: 226 mm
- Water Wading Depth: 650 mm
3. Toyota Fortuner
The Toyota Fortuner is a vehicle that blends power and prestige. Its 4WD variants provide an excellent off-road experience, along with a dependable diesel engine and terrain assist capabilities.
Specifications:
- Engine: 2.7L Petrol / 2.8L Diesel
- Power: 166 hp (Petrol), 204 hp (Diesel)
- Torque: 245 Nm (Petrol), 500 Nm (Diesel AT)
- Drivetrain: 4×2 / 4×4
- Ground Clearance: 221 mm
4. Jeep Compass Trailhawk
The Jeep Compass Trailhawk is made for adventure. Jeep’s Active Drive Low 4×4 system is included, and it has a number of driving terrain options.
Specifications:
- Engine: 2.0L Multijet II Diesel
- Power: 170 hp
- Torque: 350 Nm
- Drivetrain: AWD with Select-Terrain System
- Ground Clearance: 205 mm
- Hill Descent Control: Yes
5. Isuzu D-Max V-Cross
A lifestyle pickup vehicle that can handle torturous use. The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross is often chosen over its competitors for its tough frame, strong suspension, and versatility.
Specifications:
- Engine: 1.9L DDiS Diesel
- Power: 163 hp
- Torque: 360 Nm
- Drivetrain: 4×4 with Shift-on-Fly
- Ground Clearance: 220 mm
- Payload Capacity: 225 kg+
6. Land Rover Defender
When it comes to off-roading, the Land Rover Defender is known globally. It doesn’t just do extreme off-roading; the Defender does luxury off-roading really well.
Specifications:
- Engine: 2.0L Petrol / 3.0L Diesel / Hybrid Options
- Power: 296 hp to 395 hp
- Torque: Up to 650 Nm
- Drivetrain: AWD with Terrain Response 2
- Ground Clearance: 291 mm (adjustable air suspension)
- Wading Depth: 900 mm
7. Maruti Suzuki Jimny
Small but completely functional, the Jimny is a solid example of a legitimate off-road vehicle, all in a very light vehicle. It’s ideal for narrow trails and mountainous regions.
Specifications:
- Engine: 1.5L K15B Petrol
- Power: 105 hp
- Torque: 134 Nm
- Drivetrain: 4×4 (AllGrip Pro) with Low Range
- Ground Clearance: 210 mm
- Turning Radius: 5.7 meters
8. Tata Safari
Though positioned as a premium SUV, the Tata Safari’s terrain management system and robust platform enable moderate off-roading with comfort.
Specifications:
- Engine: 2.0L Kryotec Diesel
- Power: 170 hp
- Torque: 350 Nm
- Drivetrain: FWD (No 4WD in current gen)
- Ground Clearance: 205 mm
- Terrain Modes: Normal, Rough, Wet
9. MG Hector
Not a hardcore off-roader, but its large stance and traction control make the MG Hector capable of light trails and countryside drives.
Specifications:
- Engine: 1.5L Turbo Petrol / 2.0L Diesel
- Power: 143 hp (Petrol), 170 hp (Diesel)
- Torque: Up to 350 Nm
- Drivetrain: FWD
- Ground Clearance: 192 mm
10. Mercedes-Benz G-Class
The G-Wagon is the archetypical luxury off-roading vehicle. It has a 3-differential lock system and powerful engines to go along with a ride character that is unparalleled in comfort.
Specifications:
- Engine: 4.0L V8 Biturbo Petrol
- Power: 577 hp (G63 AMG)
- Torque: 850 Nm
- Drivetrain: 4MATIC AWD with 3 Locking Differentials
- Ground Clearance: 241 mm
- Wading Depth: 700 mm
Off-Roading? Don’t Ignore Car Care!
Owning an off-road vehicle is not just about performance—it’s about preservation. Your car is exposed to hostile conditions that can destroy its paint, its exterior, and its mechanical reliability.
That’s why we emphasize products like Ceramic Coating Service, PPF for Car, and detailing after your off-road adventures. Autoism India has a wide range of professional-grade car services that help protect and maintain your car’s value and appearance.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, selecting the right off-road car in India will depend on your style of driving, kind of terrain, and budget. Whether you made a choice of the rugged Thar, the premium Fortuner, or the all-terrain Defender, always maintain and protect your purchase.
With Autoism India, you can keep your off-road warrior adventure-ready and visually stunning—no matter where the road (or lack of it) leads.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Which is the best off-road car in India?
For hardcore off-roading fanatics, there is no doubt that the Mahindra Thar and Force Gurkha are two of the best off-roading cars in India. For luxury off-roading, the Land Rover Defender and Mercedes-Benz G-Class are the top-tier off-road cars available with well-established 4×4 systems to climb any hill.
2. Is the Maruti Jimny suitable for serious off-roading?
Absolutely. Maruti Suzuki Jimny is built for proper off-road conditions. Its light frame, 4×4 system with low-range gearing, and compact size make it perfect for hilly and bush trails.
3. What ground clearance is required for proper off-roading in India?
For Indian off-road conditions, a minimum ground clearance of 200 mm is recommended. Cars like the Thar (226 mm) and Defender (up to 291 mm) are well-suited for uneven terrains.
4. Can I use Paint Protection Film (PPF) for off-road vehicles?
PPF (paint protection film) for cars is recommended for all off-road vehicles. It will protect your paint against scratches, stone chips, and exposure to mud and rain.
5. What does Ceramic Coating do for off-road cars?
Ceramic Coating will help you have a hydrophobic layer that repels mud, water, and dust, all of which can be a frequent occurrence in off-road environments! It also gives your car long-term protection and gloss.
6. Which off-road SUV offers the best value for money?
The Mahindra Thar is often regarded as the best value-for-money off-road SUV in India due to its features, 4×4 capabilities, and affordable pricing compared to global brands.
7. How often should I detail my off-road vehicle?
For off-road vehicles exposed to dirt, mud, and grime, it’s advisable to opt for professional detailing every 2–3 months to maintain both interior and exterior health.
8. Where can I get reliable off-road car care services in India?
You can rely on Autoism India for trusted car services, including:
