Toyota recently launched the Fortuner GR-S in India for Rs 48.43 lakh (ex-showroom). However, the on-road cost of the SUV in Bangalore is more than Rs 60 lakh, even this price excluding a few usual dealership shenanigans.
Diving into details, while the ex-showroom price remains identical at Rs 48.43 lakh, one per cent of the ex-showroom is added as TCS. In addition to that, Rs 9.68 lakh is added as road tax and the insurance amount stands at Rs 1.90 lakh.
This becomes even more evident considering the Toyota Fortuner GR-S costs Rs 3.8 lakh more than the 4WD variant of the already expensive Fortuner Legender SUV. So, the on-road price of the SUV in Bangalore seems to be more in the league of premium German brands.
The more we look at the on-road price, of the newly launched Toyota Fortuner GR-S SUV, we could not stop thinking of other premium SUVs you can buy at this price. Especially considering the brand value associated with brands such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Volvo.
Though prices of all cars have increased gradually over the years, it is tough for us to understand the Rs 60 lakh price tag around the Toyota Fortuner, especially considering other premium SUVs such as the BMW X1, Mercedes-Benz GLA, Audi Q2, and Volvo XC40 costs less than the Toyota Fortuner GR-S.
BMW X1
The BMW X1 has become an ideal choice for anyone looking for a premium SUV in the Indian market. The premium German SUV offers more than decent space and also offers a long feature list.
Though BMW X1 lacks the off-road prowess or the size of the Toyota Fortuner, it more than makes up with its on-road driving dynamics and punchy powertrain.
Speaking about the powertrain, the BMW X1 comes with a choice of 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol and diesel engine. Moreover, prices for the BMW X1 range from Rs 41.50 lakh to Rs 44.50 lakh, ex-showroom.
Audi Q2
The Audi Q2 is the entry-level SUV for the German automaker in India. Though the Audi Q2 doesn’t even come close to Toyota Fortuner GR-S in terms of space offered, the Q2 comes loaded with refined powertrains and more premium interiors.
In terms of powertrain, the Audi Q2 is also far more efficient and comes with a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine. This SUV also offers very solid driving dynamics. Prices for the Audi Q2 starts from Rs 34.99 lakh, ex-showroom.
Mercedes-Benz GLA
The Mercedes-Benz GLA is a compact luxury SUV that has done more than well in the Indian premium automobile segment. Though the SUV is down on space, the three-pointed star value has been irresistible for new premium segment buyers.
Moreover, the interior design and feature list of the new Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV is definitely worth a second glance. Powering the New Mercedes-Benz GLA is a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine. Moreover, prices for the GLA SUV starts from Rs 44.90 lakh, ex-showroom.
Volvo XC40
The Volvo XC40 flies below the radar of many premium SUV buyers. However, the SUV is among the best entry-level premium SUVs in India, and the SUV offers unmatched safety like any other Volvo.
Moreover, the Volvo XC40 comes with a stunning yet very simple design language on both inside and outside that is definitely worth the glance. Powering the Volvo XC40 is a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine and prices for the Scandinavian SUV is priced at Rs 44.50 lakh, ex-showroom.
Thoughts About Entry-Level Premium SUV
Entry-level premium SUVs are definitely worth considering if you are planning to buy something north of Rs 50 lakh budget. These models not only offer a long feature list and luxurious cabin, but they also offer a very refined yet punch powertrain that can be addictive over a period of time.
Though these SUVs may not offer the same ruggedness or the resale value as the Fortuner, they will never make you regret the buying decision.
Keyword: 4 Premium SUVs That Are Cheaper Than Toyota Fortuner GR-S