In India, medium-duty trucks, MDTs, contribute immensely to transportation logistics. Such trucks typically fall within a range of 7.5 to 16 tonnes gross vehicle weight (GVW) and constitute the most commonly employed vehicles with varied usages such as goods transfers, intracity distributions, and building projects. 

Keep reading to learn more about the best medium-duty trucks in India. At the same time, consider opting for a well-rounded truck insurance plan for maximum safety.

1. Mahindra Bolero Camper┃Starting ₹10.05 Lakh

source: mahindra

According to some people, the engine of Bolero provides an amazing amount of torque and power for off-road ventures. However, owing to their older engine technology, driving on highways may feel a bit difficult. 

Key Specifications:

• Engine: 2523 cc, 4-cylinder, 75 hp, turbocharged diesel engine 
• Maximum Torque: 200 Nm at 1400 to 2200 rpm 
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 60 Litres 
• GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight): 2735 kg 
• Wheelbase: 3014 mm
• Payload Capacity: 1000 kg
• Suspension: Front, Coil springs; Rear, Rigid axle with leaf spring 
• Transmission: 5-speed manual

2. Eicher Pro 3015 | Starting ₹21.46 Lakh

source: eichertrucksandbuses.com

Eicher Pro 3015 is equipped with a highly fuel-efficient engine, which makes it reliable and profitable. It also has a world-class cabin. The truck offers superior performance, state-of-the-art features, comfort, and safety. It has a cargo body length of 5800mm and a gradability of 25%. 

Key Specifications:

• Engine: 3800 cc, 160 hp, 3.8 litres, 4-cylinder 4-valve CRS diesel engine 
• Maximum Torque: 500 Nm at 1200 to 1800 rpm
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 190 Litres 
• GVW ( Gross Vehicle Weight): 16371 kg 
• Wheelbase: 4490 mm
• Payload Capacity: 10572 kg
• Suspension: Front, Parabolic with shock absorber; Rear, Semi-elliptical laminated leaves with helper spring
• Transmission: 6-speed manual transmission

3. Tata LPT 1918 COWL | Starting ₹23.37 Lakh

source: tatamotors

Tata LPT 1918 Cowl boasts a new value feature pack that has improved fuel economy, productivity, better serviceability, high safety standards, and more driving comfort. It is designed to be a multi-purpose vehicle with fully built options for specific applications.

Key Specifications:

• Engine: Cummins ISBe 5.6 L BS6
• Maximum torque: 850 Nm @ 1000 - 1600 r/min
• Fuel tank capacity: 365 Litres
• GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight): 18500 kg
• Wheelbase: 4255 mm
• Payload Capacity: 12500 kg
• Suspension: Front, Semi-elliptical leaf springs; Rear, Semi-elliptical leaf springs
• Transmission: 6-speed Manual

4. Tata 1512 LPT | Starting ₹23.40 Lakh

Source: light-trucks.tatamotors.com

Tata 1512 LPT falls under the ICV category which comes with a clutch booster for providing comfortable rides. It caters basically to the mass market segment having a higher-rated payload. The new features, such as the armrest and power steering, lessen the fatigue of the drivers during long drives, and it can go for larger distances without refuelling. 

Key Specifications:

• Engine: 3300 cc, 167 hp, 3.3 litre, 4-cylinder BS6-compliant diesel engine 
• Maximum Torque: 390 Nm at 1000 to 2200 rpm 
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 160 Litres 
• GVW ( Gross Vehicle Weight): 16020 kg
• Wheelbase: 4830 mm
• Payload Capacity: 10550 kg
• Suspension: Front, Parabolic leaf spring; Rear, Semi-elliptical leaf spring
• Transmission: 5-speed manual transmission

5. BharatBenz 1917R | Starting ₹24.12 Lakh

source: www.bharatbenz.com

The BharatBenz 1917R is perfect for longer journeys. In terms of serviceability, the truck is the best as there are commonalities in parts between trims for ease of fixing or replacement. The 1917R truck model is recognised as one of the world’s best fuel-friendly cargo trucks currently being manufactured in India.

Key Specifications:

• Engine: 3900 cc
• Maximum Torque: 520 Nm
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 215/200 Litres
• GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight): 18,500 kg
• Wheelbase: 5900 mm
• Payload Capacity: 9750 kg
• Suspension: Front, Multi-leaf spring; Rear, Multi-leaf spring
• Transmission: 6-speed Manual

6. Eicher Pro 3019 | Starting ₹25.12 Lakh

source: eichertrucksandbuses

Eicher Pro 3019 covers approximately 6.5km per litre and is suitable for distant destinations. The vehicle has better fuel efficiency. A truck with a robust suspension for smooth rides, an auxiliary brake for additional safety, and a spacious cab that fits long trips.

Key Specifications:

• Engine: E494, 4V CRS, 4-cylinder, BS6
• Maximum Torque: 600 Nm @ 1200-1800 rpm
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 190 Litres
• GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight): 18500 kg
• Wheelbase: 4490 mm, 5490 mm, and 6690 mm
• Payload Capacity: 11000 kg
• Suspension: Front, Parabolic; Rear, Semi Elliptic 
• Transmission: 6-speed Manual

7. Ashok Leyland BOSS 1415 HB | Starting ₹26.00 Lakh

Ashok Leyland BOSS 1415 HB is a comfortable and spacious heavy-load truck. The notable features of this truck are integral power steering, driver information display, ABS, etc. It gives a mileage of 7 kmpl and has a power of 110kW.

This truck comes fitted with full air dual-line brakes, ABS and parabolic leaf springs, shock absorbers with ARB (front) and semi-elliptical suspension (rear), ensuring high safety during long-distance travel. 

Key Specifications:

• Engine: 3839 cc, 4-cylinder, i-gen6 technology 
• Maximum Torque: 450 Nm 
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 208 Litres 
• GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight): 14,050 kg 
• Wheelbase: 3400 mm
• Payload Capacity: 9882 kg
• Suspension: Parabolic leaf springs, shock absorbers with ARB, rear suspension, semi-elliptical suspension
• Transmission: 6-speed manual

8. Tata Ultra 1918 T | Starting ₹26.95 Lakh

source: tatamotors

It offers a more modern and elegant design that differentiates it from most other trucks in the medium range. It provides more payload in this class and has a larger cargo body suitable for bulky goods. The Tata Ultra 1918 T contains modernised functions that include electronic anti-fuel theft and remote telematic tracking of potential fuel fraud. 

Key Specifications:

• Engine: 5.0L Turbotron BS6 engine
• Maximum Torque: 700 Nm @ 1000-1700 rpm
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 225 Litres
• GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight): 18500 kg
• Wheelbase: 4200 mm, 4530 mm, 4920 mm, 5300 mm, 5600 mm, 6750 mm. 
• Payload Capacity: 12500 kg
• Suspension: Semi-elliptical leaf springs
• Transmission: 6-speed (6F+1R) Manual

9. Ashok Leyland AVTR 1920 | Starting ₹27.50 Lakh

source: www.ashokleyland.com

Ashok Leyland's 1920s manual transmission and chassis design give this vehicle excellent turning capability and make it perfect for light-duty work. It is equipped with a powerful engine and highly durable build quality.

Key Specifications:

• Engine: 5660 cc H series CRS, iGen-6 technology
• Maximum Torque: 700 Nm
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 375 Litres
• GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight): 18500 kg
• Wheelbase: 4750 mm
• Payload Capacity: 10500 kg
• Suspension: Front, Semi elliptic multi-leaf, (Optional) - parabolic springs; Rear, Semi elliptic multi-leaf (helper spring - Parabolic)
• Transmission: Manual

10. Ashok Leyland Ecomet 1615 | Starting ₹27.50 Lakh

Ashok Leyland Ecomet 1615 features an advanced digital driver-assistant system that enhances performance, drivability, and safety. It is also equipped with a gear shift advisor for enhancing fuel efficiency. However, the exterior looks a bit outdated and lacks a music system.  

Key Specifications:

• Engine: 3839 cc, 150 hp, 4-cylinder CRS diesel engine with i-Gen6 technology
• Maximum Torque: 450 Nm at 1250 to 2000 rpm
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 185 Litres 
• GVW ( Gross Vehicle Weight):
• Wheelbase: 4750 mm
• Payload Capacity: 10800 kg
• Suspension: Front, semi-elliptical multi-leaf suspension; Rear, Semi-elliptical multi-leaf suspension
• Transmission: 6-speed manual transmission

11. Toyota Hilux┃Starting ₹28.02 Lakh

source: toyotabharat

Along with its two transmission options, the Toyota Hilux is a 5-seater MUV that is available in the market in 3 variants. It is quite popular due to its reliability, durability, and high-end performance. It has a mileage of 10 to 12 kmpl. 

Key Specifications:

• Engine: 2.8 litre, 201.15 bhp, 4-cylinder, 2755 cc diesel engine 
• Maximum Torque: 420 N-m at 1400 to 3400 rpm
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 80 Litres 
• GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight): 2910 kg 
• Wheelbase: 3085 mm 
• Payload Capacity: 470 kg
• Suspension: Front, Double wishbone; Rear, Leaf spring 
• Transmission: Manual and Automatic 

12. BharatBenz 1217C | Starting ₹29.16 Lakh

Source: bharatbenz.com

Powered by an efficient BS6-compliant diesel engine, BharatBenz 1217C is built to carry voluminous building materials in and out of the construction sites. The features include a reverse parking assistance system, a demister seatbelt reminder, and a music system. Apart from this, it has a fuel theft protection mesh as well.  

Key Specifications:

• Engine: 3900 cc, 170 hp, 4D34i 4-cylinder diesel engine
• Maximum Torque: 520 nm at 1500 rpm
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 171 Litres 
• GVW ( Gross Vehicle Weight): 13000 kg  
• Wheelbase: 3160 mm
• Payload Capacity: 7250 kg
• Suspension: Front, Multi-leaf spring suspension; Rear, Multi-leaf spring suspension
• Transmission: Synchromesh gearbox with 6 forward and 1 reverse gear

13. Tata Signa 1923 K | Starting ₹31.28 Lakh

Source: trucks.tatamotors.com

Tata Signa 1923 K is specially designed for rough terrains, setting a new standard with its top-class performance, increased productivity, and utility features. The top-tier features lowers the Total Cost of Ownership while increasing productivity and convenience. For all these reasons, it has remained among the top choices across the country. 

Key Specifications:

• Engine: 5635 cc, 220 hp, 5.6 litres, 6-cylinder, BS6-compliant diesel engine 
• Maximum Torque: 850 Nm at 1000 to 1600 rpm
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 300 Litres 
• GVW ( Gross Vehicle Weight): 18500 kg
• Wheelbase: 4200 mm
• Payload Capacity: 10000 kg
• Suspension: Front, Leaf Spring Suspension; Rear, Semi-elliptical leaf springs
• Transmission: 6-speed manual transmission

When you consider buying the best medium-duty truck for your specific needs, it is essential to consider factors like:

• Payload: It is one of the most crucial factors in selecting the right truck for your logistical needs. Payload refers to the weight of the goods, passengers, and things a vehicle can carry. The payload will guide you in determining the cab, chassis, body type, and engine horsepower of the vehicle on an excellent truck-performance delivery.
• Towing Safety and Capacity: The safety of a towing system in a medium-duty truck should be considered if you plan on buying it. Additionally, you must consider the towing capacity and determine whether it aligns with your transportation needs.
• Fuel: You must choose a medium-duty commercial truck with high fuel efficiency. Fuel significantly impacts your operation cost and influences mileage, operating time between services, operating environment, and cost budget.
• Operating Environment: Consider the environment when choosing a commercial truck. For narrow roads with many stops, go for a medium-duty truck with better manoeuvrability. Use a truck with a longer wheelbase for better operating efficiency for highway cruising.
• Cargo: Depending on the nature of the cargo, one can decide what kind of medium-duty truck is the best. Dry freight and cube bodies are ideal choices if you haul goods in boxes, including consumer electronics goods and baking goodies.
• Cost: Budgetary constraints and price are of great significance when buying any item, especially a medium-duty truck, which usually costs in lakhs.

It is necessary to have a trustworthy fleet of medium-duty trucks for effective transport logistics. Fleet managers looking for an expansion opportunity can use this inventory, comprising some of India's best medium-duty trucks. This list will thus help you if you are looking to buy one.

Also, note that having third-party commercial vehicle insurance is mandatory in India.