Buying an SUV under ₹20 lakh in 2026 no longer means settling for a stripped-down base variant. Automakers have significantly upgraded their entry-level trims, offering premium styling, modern infotainment systems, and strong safety packages right from the start. For value-conscious buyers, this means enjoying premium features without stretching the budget.

Here’s a closer look at the best SUVs under ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom) that offer the most loaded base variants in 2026.

1. Skoda Kushaq Facelift

Expected Price: From ₹10.5 lakh (ex-showroom)

The Skoda Kushaq Facelift continues to impress with its solid build quality and premium European feel. Even its base variant comes well equipped.

• 16-inch alloy wheels
• LED headlamps and tail lamps
• Single-pane sunroof
• Automatic wipers
• 7-inch infotainment system
• Rear wiper, washer, and defogger
• Automatic climate control

Safety Features:

• 6 airbags (standard)
• ABS with EBD
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• Hill-hold assist

2. 2026 Kia Seltos

Price: ₹10.99 lakh (ex-showroom)

The 2026 Kia Seltos offers one of the most well-rounded base variants in the segment, combining technology, comfort, and safety.

• LED DRLs and LED headlamps
• 16-inch steel wheels with covers
• 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Six-speaker audio system
• Push-button start/stop
• Tilt and telescopic steering

Safety Features:

• 6 airbags
• ABS with EBD
• Electronic Stability Control
• All-wheel disc brakes
• Rear parking camera
• ISOFIX child seat mounts

3. Mahindra XUV 7XO

Price: ₹13.66 lakh to ₹14.96 lakh (ex-showroom)

The Mahindra XUV 7XO takes base variant features to another level, especially in terms of technology.

• LED projector headlamps with DRLs
• LED tail lamps
• Flush door handles
• Triple 12.3-inch screens (driver display, infotainment, co-passenger display)
• Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Connected car technology
• Cruise control

Safety Features:

• 6 airbags
• ABS with EBD
• Electronic Stability Control
• ISOFIX mounts
• Reverse parking sensors

4. Hyundai Venue

Price: ₹7.90 lakh (ex-showroom)

The updated Hyundai Venue remains one of the most affordable and feature-packed subcompact SUVs in India.

• LED DRLs
• 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Steering-mounted controls
• Four-speaker audio system

Safety Features:

• 6 airbags
• ABS with EBD
• Electronic Stability Control
• Hill start assist
• Rear parking sensors
• ISOFIX child seat anchorages

5. Maruti Victoris

Price: ₹10.5 lakh (ex-showroom)

The Maruti Victoris, positioned between the Brezza and Grand Vitara, offers a practical and feature-rich base variant.

• 17-inch steel wheels with covers
• 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Automatic climate control
• Semi-digital instrument cluster
• Push-button start/stop
• Rear AC vents

Safety Features:

• 6 airbags
• ESC and hill-hold assist
• Rear parking sensors
• ISOFIX mounts
• Rear defogger

Conclusion

In 2026, base variants are no longer basic. Whether it’s the tech-loaded Mahindra XUV 7XO, the premium-focused Skoda Kushaq, the balanced Kia Seltos, the budget-friendly Hyundai Venue, or the practical Maruti Victoris, buyers now have multiple feature-rich options under ₹20 lakh.

If maximum features at the lowest possible price is your priority, these SUVs prove that the base variant can often be the smartest choice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which SUV under ₹20 lakh offers the most features in its base variant?

The Mahindra XUV 7XO stands out with its triple-screen setup and advanced technology features at the base level.

Are six airbags standard in these SUVs?

Yes, all the SUVs listed above offer six airbags as standard in their base variants.

Which is the most affordable SUV on this list?

The Hyundai Venue is the most affordable option, starting at ₹7.90 lakh (ex-showroom).

Do base variants offer touchscreen infotainment systems?

Yes, all the SUVs mentioned above come with touchscreen infotainment systems in their base trims.