5 Luxury SUVs to Consider Instead of the Toyota Fortuner
5 Luxury SUVs to Consider Instead of the Toyota Fortuner – Up to ₹60 Lakh
Image: 5 Luxury SUVs to Consider Instead of the Toyota Fortuner – Up to ₹60 Lakh – Performance Comparison and Specifications
The Toyota Fortuner has earned a cult following in India thanks to its off‑road grit, rock‑solid reliability and a touch of premium flair. Yet, for many buyers the allure of true luxury – think hand‑stitched leather, cutting‑edge ADAS suites, and a whisper‑quiet cabin – is hard to resist. If your budget caps at around ₹60 lakh, you don’t have to settle for a compromise. Below we dive into five premium SUVs that deliver a richer experience without breaking the bank.
Why Look Beyond the Fortuner?
While the Fortuner is undeniably capable, it rides on a platform that dates back to the early 2000s. Modern rivals bring fresh design language, lighter construction, and a host of driver‑assist technologies that make daily commutes as enjoyable as weekend getaways. Plus, the newer interiors feel more European‑styled, with ambient lighting, digital instrument clusters, and premium sound systems.
Our Picks – Luxury SUVs Under ₹60 Lakh
1. Volvo XC60
Volvo’s hallmark is safety, and the XC60 is a masterclass in that philosophy. A sleek Scandinavian silhouette hides a turbo‑petrol engine that churns out 250 hp, paired with an 8‑speed automatic. Inside, you’ll find Nappa leather, a 9‑inch Sensus infotainment screen, and a City Safety system that includes pedestrian‑detect and lane‑keeping aid.
2. Audi Q5
The Q5 balances performance and poise. Its 2.0‑litre turbo‑petrol unit delivers 261 hp, while the Quattro all‑wheel‑drive ensures confidence on wet roads. Audi’s Virtual Cockpit, MMI touch response, and a comprehensive suite of ADAS features (adaptive cruise, traffic jam assist) make every drive feel futuristic.
3. BMW X3
BMW’s “Ultimate Driving Machine” badge lives up to expectations in the X3. The 2.0‑litre turbo‑petrol engine pumps out 258 hp, and the chassis is tuned for sporty handling without sacrificing comfort. The cabin boasts a 10.25‑inch digital display, ambient lighting, and the latest Driving Assistant Professional package.
4. Mercedes‑Benz GLC
Mercedes brings its signature elegance to the GLC. A 2.0‑litre turbo‑petrol engine produces 255 hp, while the MBUX infotainment system learns your preferences over time. The GLC’s safety arsenal includes Active Brake Assist, Blind Spot Assist, and a 64‑colour ambient lighting scheme.
5. Lexus NX
Lexus blends Japanese reliability with a refined luxury feel. Its 2.4‑litre turbo‑petrol powertrain offers 275 hp and a silky‑smooth 8‑speed automatic. Inside, you’ll enjoy a 12.3‑inch multimedia screen, premium wood‑grain trim, and the Lexus Safety System+ that bundles pre‑collision, lane‑tracing, and adaptive cruise control.
Design & Dimensions
| Model | Length (mm) | Wheelbase (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| Volvo XC60 | 4,688 | 2,864 |
| Audi Q5 | 4,663 | 2,819 |
| BMW X3 | 4,708 | 2,864 |
| Mercedes‑Benz GLC | 4,656 | 2,873 |
| Lexus NX | 4,735 | 2,735 |
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Volvo XC60 | Audi Q5 | BMW X3 | Mercedes‑GLC | Lexus NX |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ADAS Suite | City Safety + Pilot Assist | Audi pre‑sense + adaptive cruise | Driving Assistant Pro | Active Brake + Blind Spot | Lexus Safety System+ |
| Infotainment Screen | 9‑inch Sensus | 10.1‑inch MMI | 10.25‑inch iDrive | 10.25‑inch MBUX | 12.3‑inch multimedia |
| Premium Audio | Bowers & Wilkins 10‑spk | Bang & Olufsen 12‑spk | Harman Kardon 10‑spk | Mercedes EQ 13‑spk | Lexus Mark Levinson 12‑spk |
| Leather Upholstery | Nappa leather | Valcona leather | Merino leather | Fine Nappa | Premium leather |
Engine Specifications
| Model | Engine Type | Power (hp) | Torque (Nm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Volvo XC60 | 2.0 L Turbo‑Petrol | 250 | 350 |
| Audi Q5 | 2.0 L Turbo‑Petrol | 261 | 370 |
| BMW X3 | 2.0 L Turbo‑Petrol | 258 | 350 |
| Mercedes‑GLC | 2.0 L Turbo‑Petrol | 255 | 370 |
| Lexus NX | 2.4 L Turbo‑Petrol | 275 | 380 |
Price Comparison (Ex‑Showroom, India)
| Model | Starting Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| Volvo XC60 | 53,00,000 |
| Audi Q5 | 58,50,000 |
| BMW X3 | 57,90,000 |
| Mercedes‑GLC | 58,20,000 |
| Lexus NX | 56,80,000 |
What Sets These SUVs Apart from the Fortuner?
Besides the obvious leap in interior refinement, each of these models offers a more sophisticated ADAS package, higher‑grade infotainment, and a quieter ride. The Fortuner’s 2.8‑litre diesel remains strong for pure off‑road work, but if you crave a smoother city experience with a touch of opulence, the above list delivers.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a luxury SUV under ₹60 lakh is no longer a pipe‑dream. Whether you’re drawn to Volvo’s safety pedigree, Audi’s tech‑forward cockpit, BMW’s dynamic feel, Mercedes‑Benz’s timeless elegance, or Lexus’s blend of reliability and luxury, you’ll step up from the Fortuner without stretching your budget beyond reason. Take a test‑drive, compare the after‑sales network in your city, and let the feel‑good factor guide you.
For a deeper dive, read the original article on MotorOctane.
Frequently Asked Questions
- 1. Which of these SUVs has the best fuel economy?
- The Volvo XC60 and Audi Q5, both with 2.0‑L turbo‑petrol engines, deliver the best balance of power and mileage, averaging around 13‑14 km/l under mixed driving conditions.
- 2. Do any of these models come with a diesel engine?
- In the current Indian market, all five selections are offered only with turbo‑petrol powertrains. Diesel options are limited for premium SUVs above ₹50 lakh.
- 3. How does the warranty coverage compare to the Fortuner?
- Most European brands provide a 4‑year/1,00,000‑km warranty, whereas Toyota offers a 5‑year/2,00,000‑km warranty. However, the European makers often include roadside assistance and complimentary servicing for the first two years.
- 4. Is the resale value of these luxury SUVs stable?
- Brands like Mercedes‑Benz, BMW, and Lexus tend to retain value well in India, especially when kept in pristine condition. Volvo and Audi are catching up fast as their dealer networks expand.
- 5. Which SUV offers the most advanced driver‑assist technology?
- While all five have strong ADAS suites, the Audi Q5’s Traffic Jam Assist and the Mercedes‑GLC’s Drive Pilot (when available) are among the most sophisticated in the segment.
- 6. Can I get a hybrid version within the ₹60 lakh limit?
- Hybrid variants of the BMW X3 and Mercedes GLC typically start above ₹65 lakh. For a hybrid under ₹60 lakh, you might need to look at the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid or the Lexus UX Hybrid.
- 7. Which model offers the most spacious rear seat?
- The Lexus NX provides a slightly longer wheelbase, translating to marginally more rear‑legroom, making it a comfortable choice for families.
- 8. Are these SUVs suitable for serious off‑road use?
- They excel on paved roads and light off‑road trails. If you need serious rock‑crawling capability, the Fortuner’s ladder‑frame chassis still holds an edge.
- 9. How do maintenance costs compare?
- European luxury brands generally have higher service bills than Toyota, but many owners report that scheduled maintenance is predictable. Choosing a dealer with a good service package can mitigate the cost.
- 10. Which SUV provides the best infotainment experience?
- The Mercedes‑GLC’s MBUX with voice‑activated “Hey Mercedes” and the Audi Q5’s MMI touch response are often praised as the most intuitive and feature‑rich in this price bracket.
