India’s luxury SUV segment has grown dramatically in recent years. With increasing wealth, better roads, improved service networks, and growing demand for comfort and status, premium SUVs have become a symbol of success and excellence. In this detailed guide, we cover the Top 10 Premium Luxury SUV Cars in India — including pricing, key features, performance, design elements, and the positives and negatives of each model.
1. Rolls-Royce Cullinan
Price (India - Approx.)
₹9.5 crore – ₹10.5 crore (ex-showroom)
Key Features
- 6.75-litre twin-turbo V12 engine
- Powerful all-wheel drive
- Rolls-Royce Rear Theatre configuration
- Bespoke interior options
- Flagship luxury and comfort levels
Performance
The Cullinan’s V12 produces effortless acceleration even at high weights, delivering a refined yet powerful driving experience. The air suspension absorbs bumps with utter grace.
Design
Elegant and imposing, the Cullinan’s design is instantly recognizable. Its iconic Pantheon grille, suicide doors, and regal proportions make it the epitome of luxury SUVs.
Positives
- Unmatched comfort and refinement
- Ultimate status symbol
- Customizable interior craftsmanship
Negatives
- Very high cost of ownership
- Fuel efficiency is low
- Limited after-sales footprint
2. Bentley Bentayga
Price (India - Approx.)
₹6.5 crore – ₹8.5 crore (ex-showroom)
Key Features
- W12 and V8 powertrain options
- Active all-wheel steering
- Luxury cabin with premium materials
- Adaptive cruise and driver assist features
Performance
Bentayga blends high performance with luxury. The W12 delivers stout acceleration and a refined cruising demeanor, while the V8 offers slightly better fuel economy with still potent performance.
Design
A muscular yet elegant silhouette, wide stance, and aggressive front fascia define the Bentayga. Inside, it’s rich with leather, wood trim, and state-of-the-art tech.
Positives
- Strong performance
- High-end interior luxury
- Excellent road manners
Negatives
- High servicing cost
- Fuel consumption is high
3. Lexus LX 500d
Price (India - Approx.)
₹2.8 crore – ₹3.5 crore (ex-showroom)
Key Features
- 3.3-litre twin-turbo V6 diesel
- Four-wheel drive with multiple terrain modes
- Luxury leather seats with massage
- Mark Levinson premium audio
Performance
The LX 500d’s diesel V6 delivers high torque, great for both city and highway use. Off-road capability is strong, making it a very versatile luxury SUV.
Design
The bold spindle grille distinguishes Lexus design. Large proportions and sculpted body panels evoke premium strength and presence.
Positives
- Off-road capable
- Torque-rich diesel engine
- Reliable build quality
Negatives
- Not as sporty as rivals
- Diesel engine may feel less refined than petrol
4. BMW X7
Price (India - Approx.)
₹1.5 crore – ₹2.2 crore (ex-showroom)
Key Features
- 3.0L twin-turbo straight-six
- All-wheel drive (xDrive)
- Captain seats and 7-seat configurations
- Panoramic display and luxury infotainment
Performance
The X7 makes strong power and handles its size well. Comfort modes make it a relaxing cruiser, while Sport modes provide engaging driving dynamics.
Design
Big kidney grille and muscular body give X7 a dominating presence. The interior is layered with premium materials and tech features.
Positives
- Comfortable long-distance touring
- Strong brand cachet
- Excellent technology stack
Negatives
- High running costs
- Tech complexity can be overwhelming
5. Audi RS Q8
Price (India - Approx.)
₹2.5 crore – ₹3.0 crore (ex-showroom)
Key Features
- 4.0L twin-turbo V8
- 0-100 km/h in ~3.8s
- RS sport differential
- Bang & Olufsen 3D sound
Performance
RS Q8 is a performance SUV. It merges SUV practicality with supercar-like acceleration, thanks to its V8 biturbo powertrain and dynamic chassis tweaks.
Design
Aggressive but elegant, the RS Q8 has large air intakes, coupe-like roofline, and sporty detailing. Inside, it’s premium with RS touches.
Positives
- Supercar-like performance
- Excellent handling for its size
Negatives
- Fuel consumption is high
- Price premium
6. Mercedes-Benz GLS – The S-Class of SUVs
Price (Ex-Showroom India)
₹1.34 crore – ₹1.39 crore
Performance
The Mercedes-Benz GLS is offered with powerful petrol and diesel engines. The GLS 450 petrol uses a 3.0L inline-6 turbo engine producing around 381 hp, while the GLS 400d diesel delivers strong torque for effortless cruising. The SUV focuses more on comfort than aggressive driving.
Key Features
- MBUX dual-screen infotainment system
- Air suspension for superior comfort
- 7-seater luxury layout
- Advanced ADAS safety features
- Premium Burmester sound system
Design
The GLS carries a classy, elegant design with a large grille, smooth body lines, and a spacious, luxury-focused interior. It appeals to buyers who prefer understated luxury.
Positives
- Extremely comfortable ride quality
- Spacious cabin, ideal for families
- Advanced safety technology
Negatives
- Not very sporty to drive
- High maintenance costs
7. Land Rover Range Rover Sport – Luxury Meets Performance
Price (Ex-Showroom India)
₹1.45 crore – ₹2.80 crore
Performance
The Range Rover Sport offers multiple powertrains, including petrol, diesel, and high-performance V8 options. It delivers strong acceleration while maintaining excellent off-road capability, making it one of the most versatile luxury SUVs in India.
Key Features
- Terrain Response 2 system
- Adaptive air suspension
- Premium leather interiors
- Large curved touchscreen display
- Advanced driver assistance systems
Design
The Sport version features a more aggressive and athletic design compared to the standard Range Rover, with a coupe-like stance and modern LED lighting.
Positives
- Excellent mix of luxury and performance
- Strong road presence
- Outstanding off-road capability
Negatives
- Reliability concerns in long-term ownership
- Expensive optional features
8. Volvo XC90 – Safety-Focused Luxury SUV
Price (Ex-Showroom India)
₹1.01 crore – ₹1.05 crore
Performance
The Volvo XC90 comes with a mild-hybrid petrol engine focusing on efficiency, comfort, and safety rather than outright performance. It delivers smooth power suitable for city and highway cruising.
Key Features
- Industry-leading safety technology
- Minimalist Scandinavian interior design
- 7-seater configuration
- Advanced driver assistance systems
- Premium sound system
Design
The XC90 features clean, elegant lines with a modern Scandinavian design philosophy that emphasizes simplicity and sophistication.
Positives
- Best-in-class safety features
- Comfortable and spacious interior
- Elegant design
Negatives
- Performance not very exciting
- Limited engine options
9. Mercedes-Benz G-Class – The Iconic Luxury Off-Roader
Price (Ex-Showroom India)
₹2.55 crore – ₹4.00 crore+
Performance
The G-Class, especially the AMG G63 variant, delivers massive power with a V8 engine producing over 580 hp. Despite its boxy shape, it offers impressive on-road performance and legendary off-road ability.
Key Features
- AMG performance engine
- Triple locking differentials
- Luxury leather interiors
- Advanced infotainment system
Design
The G-Wagon retains its iconic boxy design, which has remained largely unchanged for decades, making it instantly recognizable.
Positives
- Unmatched road presence
- Extreme off-road capability
- Iconic design
Negatives
- Very expensive
- Poor fuel efficiency
10. Land Rover Range Rover Velar – Stylish Luxury SUV
Price (Ex-Showroom India)
₹87 lakh – ₹1.05 crore
Performance
The Velar offers refined petrol and diesel engines designed for smooth performance rather than extreme power. It is best suited for urban luxury driving.
Key Features
- Flush door handles
- Minimalist dual-touchscreen layout
- Premium interior materials
- Advanced safety features
Design
The Range Rover Velar is one of the most stylish luxury SUVs, with a sleek, modern design and coupe-like silhouette.
Positives
- Very attractive design
- Premium interior quality
- Comfortable for city use
Negatives
- Not very sporty
- Limited off-road ability compared to other Range Rovers
Final Verdict: Which Premium Luxury SUV Should You Buy?
Choosing the best premium luxury SUV in India depends on what you value the most. If exclusivity matters, Rolls-Royce Cullinan stands unmatched. For performance lovers, Audi RS Q8 and AMG G-Class are top picks. Families seeking comfort should consider the Mercedes-Benz GLS or BMW X7, while safety-focused buyers will appreciate the Volvo XC90. Each of these SUVs represents the pinnacle of luxury in its own way.
