Best 4 Cylinder SUVs in 2025: Power, Mileage & Practicality

SUVs are no longer limited to gas-guzzling giants with massive engines. With rising fuel prices, stricter emission norms, and increasing demand for performance with efficiency, 4 cylinder SUVs have become the preferred choice for many buyers. These vehicles strike a balance between power and economy, offering enough torque for city drives and highway cruising without compromising on mileage or maintenance costs.

Whether youre buying your first SUV or looking to downsize without losing capability, here are the best 4 cylinder SUVs in 2025 that offer a compelling package of performance, technology, and comfort.

1. Hyundai Creta

• Engine: 1.5L MPi Petrol / 1.5L U2 CRDi Diesel (4-cylinder)

• Mileage: 1721 km/l

• Highlights: The Creta is a feature-loaded compact SUV with a refined engine, smooth ride, and stylish design. Its one of Indias most popular SUVs for a reason.

2. Kia Seltos

• Engine: 1.5L Petrol / Diesel (4-cylinder)

• Mileage: 1720 km/l

• Highlights: Sleek design, sharp LED lights, 10.25-inch touchscreen, ventilated seats, and top-tier safety make the Seltos a well-rounded 4 cylinder SUV.

3. Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara

• Engine: 1.5L K15C DualJet Petrol (4-cylinder)

• Mileage: 20+ km/l (Hybrid)

• Highlights: Grand Vitara is one of the few 4-cylinder hybrid SUVs in this segment, offering high fuel efficiency and a premium driving experience.

4. Tata Harrier

• Engine: 2.0L Kryotec Diesel (4-cylinder)

• Mileage: 1617 km/l

• Highlights: Rugged yet elegant, the Harrier provides strong torque, solid build quality, and a commanding road presence. Its ideal for long highway drives and rough terrain.

5. MG Hector

• Engine: 1.5L Turbo Petrol / 2.0L Diesel (4-cylinder)

• Mileage: 1517 km/l

• Highlights: MG Hector is known for its massive touchscreen, internet-connected features, and a spacious cabin. Great for tech lovers and families alike.

6. Honda Elevate

• Engine: 1.5L i-VTEC Petrol (4-cylinder)

• Mileage: 1617 km/l

• Highlights: A newer compact SUV from Honda, Elevate brings smooth CVT performance, a solid chassis, and the dependability Honda is known for.

7. Volkswagen Taigun

• Engine: 1.0L TSI (3-cylinder) / 1.5L TSI (4-cylinder)

• Mileage: 1819 km/l

• Highlights: The 1.5L TSI variant uses Active Cylinder Technology for better efficiency. Its a sporty, premium SUV with solid build quality and engaging driving dynamics.

8. Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder

• Engine: 1.5L Petrol / Hybrid (4-cylinder)

• Mileage: Up to 27 km/l (Hybrid)

• Highlights: Built on the same platform as the Grand Vitara, Hyryder excels in efficiency and smooth city driving. A great option for environmentally conscious buyers.

Why Choose a 4 Cylinder SUV?

? Better Fuel Economy:

Compared to larger 6 or 8 cylinder engines, a 4-cylinder engine delivers improved fuel efficiency, which helps reduce long-term ownership costs.

? Lower Maintenance:

With fewer components and smaller displacement, 4-cylinder engines are cheaper to service and repair.

? Lighter and More Efficient:

4-cylinder SUVs offer a great balance of weight and power, making them ideal for both city use and occasional highway runs.

? Good Resale Value:

As fuel efficiency becomes more important to buyers, demand for compact and efficient 4-cylinder SUVs is expected to remain strong.

Things to Consider Before Buying:

• Fuel Type: Choose between petrol, diesel, or hybrid depending on your driving pattern.

• Transmission: CVT, torque converter, and DCT all have different pros and cons.

• Features & Safety: Look for 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, ADAS, and rear cameras.

• Space & Comfort: Evaluate rear seat space and boot capacity based on your family size.

Conclusion

The market for 4 cylinder SUVs is booming, offering choices that range from budget-friendly to premium, from performance-oriented to fuel-efficient hybrids. SUVs like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Maruti Grand Vitara are redefining what compact SUVs can deliver. Whether you want urban practicality or off-road versatility, theres a 4-cylinder SUV that suits your needs perfectly in 2025.