Upcoming Diesel Cars in India 2023-24 – Expected Price, Launch Dates & Specifications

Despite falling sales numbers and increasing taxes, diesel powertrains continue to remain popular amongst buyers looking for powerful and affordable-to-run cars in India. While we saw several brands discontinuing their diesel portfolio after the implementation of the BS6 emission norms, some others including Tata, Mahindra and Hyundai continue to offer many diesel cars in India for those looking for a dependable workhorse. 

Many of these brands are also gearing up to launch several updated models in the coming months to further attract buyers. In this blog, we are going to take a closer look at some of the upcoming diesel cars in India that you should not miss if you are, or soon will be, in the market to buy a new diesel car.

Upcoming Diesel Cars in India

1. Hyundai Creta Next-Gen

With an expected launch in early 2024, the new Hyundai Creta is currently one of the most anticipated upcoming diesel cars and continues to remain one of the most popular diesel SUVs in India. With rivals like the Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Skoda Kushaq, VW Taigun, and the Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder already competing in the segment, the new Creta will face stiff competition right from the day of the launch. 

In addition to an updated exterior styling and new features inside the refreshed cabin, the new Creta is also likely to be offered with the new 1.5-litre petrol engine in addition to the 1.5-litre NA petrol and 1.5-litre CRDi diesel. In all, just like the present iteration, the upcoming Hyundai Creta facelift will be a great choice for anyone looking for a premium and feature-packed mid-size SUV with powerful and dependable engine options.

Expected Price: ₹11-12 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

Expected Launch Date: February 2024

*Expected

Also Read: Cheapest Diesel Cars in India

2. Kia Sonet Facelift

The compact SUV segment is on its toes with the launch of several new offerings including the Tata Nexon facelift and the new Hyundai Venue. While Mahindra will also be launching the new XUV300 in the coming months, Kia is also gearing up to launch the new Kia Sonet facelift for buyers looking for a premium compact SUV with aggressive looks and an imposing road presence. 

We are expecting the Korean carmaker to offer features like ADAS, a sunroof, a touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument console, push-button start, and more. No changes will be made to the powertrain options for the buyers.

Expected Price: ₹8-9 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

Expected Launch Date: Early 2024

*Expected

3. Tata Harrier/Safari Facelift

The Harrier and the Safari are two of the flagship Tata SUVs in the Indian market and not only offer a feature-rich package but have always been appreciated for their imposing looks and strong performance. With the competition now spicing up after the launch of the new XUV700, Hector, Compass and Scorpio N, the Indian carmaker is likely to soon introduce the updated iterations of the Harrier and the Safari in India. 

To begin with, the new facelift models will be offered with a long list of updates including a refreshed front styling, updated cabin, new features and ADAS safety tech. Just like before, both the models will continue to get a split headlamp design, and a high-set hood along with a muscular side profile, and a classy rear design. 

Inside, both these SUVs are likely to be offered with a new infotainment system, a new two-spoke steering wheel, an updated features list, and a new instrument console. Just like the present iteration, the Harrier and the Safari facelift models will continue to be powered by the same 2.0L Kryotec Turbo diesel engine, while a turbo petrol unit will make its debut sometime later.

Expected Price: ₹ 16-17 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

Expected Launch Date: October 2023

*Expected

Also Read: Best Diesel Cars Under ₹8 lakh in India

5. Force Gurkha 5-Door

The upcoming Force Gurkha 5-door is generating significant excitement among off-road enthusiasts and automotive enthusiasts alike. Building upon the rugged legacy of the Gurkha, this 5-door variant is likely to promise better versatility and practicality. 

With its distinctive design and larger dimensions, the new five-door version will provide ample space for passengers and cargo, making it an excellent choice for those who require a sensible blend of off-road capability and everyday usability. 

Under the hood, the 2.6-litre diesel engine, known for its strong low-end torque, is likely to be carried over, providing the necessary grunt for conquering challenging off-road trails. The vehicle's sturdy ladder frame chassis, rigid suspension setup, and four-wheel-drive system further enhance its off-road prowess, ensuring it can handle the toughest conditions with ease. 

Whether you're a weekend warrior seeking adventure in the wilderness or a family looking for a capable and dependable SUV, the upcoming Force Gurkha 5-door is poised to be a compelling choice, combining its legendary off-road DNA with practicality and comfort for everyday use.

Expected Price: ₹16 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

Expected Launch Date: February 2024

*Expected

6. New Kia Carnival (KA4)

Likely to be brought into the Indian market via the completely knocked down (CKD) route, the new Kia Carnival KA4 is likely to be launched early next year and will be positioned as a premium Kia product in the country. 

While the fourth-gen model is likely to get the same powertrain as the third-gen iteration, we will see a long list of changes being introduced for buyers, including the introduction of ADAS safety tech, a new infotainment system, connected car tech, panoramic sunroof, and more. Once launched, the new Carnival will be a direct rival to the Toyota Innova in India.

Expected Price: ₹30-32 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

Expected Launch Date: February 2024

*Expected

Also Read: Most Fuel Efficient Diesel Cars in India

7. Mahindra Thar 5-Door

Ever since its debut almost three years ago, the Mahindra Thar continues to be a hot-selling 4X4 SUV in the country. The Thar not only boasts strong performance but is also one of the best off-roading vehicles in India. 

However, while the present iteration is only offered with a three-door layout, it’s no secret that Mahindra is working on the five-door version which would be going on sale sometime next year. 

From what we know so far, the new Thar will continue to be offered with the same powertrain options that we get with the three-door version and will be underpinned by the same platform which is utilised in the Scorpio-N. 

Expected Price: ₹16-18 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

Expected Launch Date: Early 2024

*Expected

The Bottom Line 

As the Indian automotive market continues to evolve, these upcoming diesel cars in India for 2023-24 represent a diverse range of options, from compact SUVs to versatile off-roaders, ensuring that there's something for everyone. 

Whether you prioritise urban sophistication, rugged capability, or a blend of both, these new diesel vehicles aim to cater to your needs and preferences. 

Stay tuned for more updates on these exciting new diesel car launches as they approach their expected release dates.

FAQs

Q. Which is the cheapest upcoming diesel car in India?

The new Kia Sonet is currently regarded as the cheapest upcoming diesel car in India.

Q. What will be the price of the upcoming Mahindra Thar 5-door in India?

From what we know so far, the upcoming Thar 5-door price is likely to start from ₹16-18 lakh for the base variant but more details will only be clear once the brand shares the official launch timeline of the car.