Popular Cars With Multiple Engine Options - From VenueTo Sierra

Buying a car has never been just about the badge on the bonnet. For many buyers, what lies under the hood matters just as much. Engine options give buyers the power to choose, whether they want frugal efficiency for daily commutes, a punchy mid-spec for weekend drives, or the full-fat performance variant for those who simply want more. It's a smart play by automakers too: one platform, multiple powertrains, and a wider net cast across different buyer profiles and budgets.

But not every manufacturer thinks this way. While some offer a thoughtfully stacked engine lineup that caters to every type of buyer, others keep it simple with just one or two options; leaving performance-hungry customers with little room to upgrade without switching models entirely.

So which cars in India give you the most to choose from? Let's find out.

Hyundai Venue/ Kia Sonet

These two cars, identical in most aspects but with different styling, offer three engine options - two petrol and one diesel. The first is a naturally aspirated petrol engine, which is the most popular choice thanks to its affordable pricing and excellent refinement. Even in this sub-4-metre segment, there aren't many cars with a 4-cylinder engine, which further adds to their appeal. Moreover, the Venue and Sonet also cater to enthusiasts with a turbo-petrol (T-GDi) engine and to long-distance travellers with a diesel option that delivers high efficiency.

Lastly, there's a small difference between the two, specifically in their turbo-petrol variants. The Sonet comes with an iMT only, which is a clutchless manual setup, while the Venue offers a 6-speed manual instead. However, both SUVs share the same DCT automatic option.

Hyundai Creta / Kia Seltos / Kia Carens Clavis

All three cars share the same engine options, as they belong to the same group. They're also built on the same platform, though the Carens Clavis is an MPV, while the other two are mid-size SUVs. Once again, you get a naturally aspirated petrol, a turbo-petrol, and a diesel engine. Here too, the Seltos with the turbo-petrol engine comes with an iMT transmission, whereas the Creta offers only a 7-speed DCT. However, the Carens Clavis provides all three options - manual, iMT, and 7-speed DCT - making it the most versatile MPV in its segment.

Mahindra XUV 3X0

This sub-compact SUV from Mahindra comes with three turbocharged engine options, making it a delight for performance enthusiasts. All three engines deliver impressive power, and there are three gearbox options available as well. In terms of driving dynamics and segment, the XUV 3X0's direct rival is the Skoda Kylaq, which offers just one engine - a 1.0L TSI. This clearly gives buyers more choices with the XUV 3X0 compared to the Skoda. Now, let's take a closer look at the figures.

Tata Curvv

Another Indian SUV offering three engine options, the Curvv is known for its swanky looks. This feature-loaded mid-size SUV combines excellent driving dynamics with a 5-star safety rating from Bharat NCAP. Among the three engines, the diesel stands out for its punchy performance and impressive fuel economy. On the other hand, the petrol options feel a bit underwhelming in both refinement and performance. One unique feature is that Tata offers a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission with all three engines.

Renault Duster

The Duster is back. After years of absence, the Renault Duster returns to the Indian market with a thoroughly modernised package. The Duster comes with two engine options and by October, it may have a Hybrid option too for India. Both, the Turbo TCe 100 (1.0-litre Turbo) and Turbo TCe 160 (1.3-litre Turbo) delivers strong low-end torque, excellent city drivability, and relaxed highway cruising. Performance remains strong in both, however the top-end acceleration feels less enthusiastic in Turbo TCe 100.

Tata Sierra

The Sierra has made a comeback after two decades with modern design, new features, and multiple engine options, catering to wider spectrum audience. The diesel engine in Sierra is time tested. However, both the petrol engines are brand new. One is made for buyers seeking high mileage and other for the spirited driving.

Conclusion

These wide-ranging engine options allow manufacturers to cater to every type of customer, addressing different needs and preferences. That said, apart from the models mentioned above, there are several other cars in the market that offer at least two engine options, such as those from Volkswagen and Skoda. Looking at more accessible segments, even Maruti Suzuki offers a standard powertrain and a CNG version in most of its cars. This also reflects in the sales charts, suggesting that a broader range of offerings can help attract more buyers and contribute to higher sales volumes.