Beyond the Fortuner: 5 powerful SUVs launching in India in 2026

The Toyota Fortuner has long dominated the large SUV segment in the Indian market. But buyers looking for a different experience will have several good options in 2026. Depending on budget, advanced technology, luxury or a taste for off-roading, customers will now have the freedom to choose. Here are the features and prices of five powerful alternatives.

For those wanting a grander, more luxurious vehicle than the Fortuner, MG's new flagship Majestor could be the choice. It gets a twin-turbo diesel engine, massage seats and advanced off-road features such as a triple differential lock. The MG Majestor starts at Rs 43.49 lakh (ex-showroom) and is available in both 4x2 and 4x4 options.

In terms of technology and cabin, the Kia Sorento is considered a leader in the premium SUV segment. It gets Kia's first turbo-petrol strong-hybrid setup, a diesel engine, and an AWD option on select variants. The SUV comes in both 6-seater and 7-seater configurations. In India, it is priced from Rs 27.99 lakh (ex-showroom).

The Jeep Meridian is known for its excellent driving dynamics and power. It comes with a 2.0-litre diesel engine producing 170 hp and 350 Nm of torque. It offers both manual and automatic transmissions along with a 4x4 option. The 2026 model gets sliding second-row seats. It starts at Rs 23.33 lakh (ex-showroom).

For those wanting a strong mix of luxury and performance, the Skoda Kodiaq is an excellent option. It gets a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, a 7-speed DSG gearbox and an all-wheel drive (AWD) system, along with Level 2 ADAS, a panoramic sunroof and a 360-degree camera. The 2026 model is priced from Rs 36.99 lakh (ex-showroom).

For those wanting a genuine ladder-frame SUV experience on a smaller budget, the Mahindra Scorpio-N is considered the best option. It offers two engine choices, a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and a 2.2-litre diesel. The diesel variant gets Mahindra's "4Xplor" 4WD system, along with a panoramic sunroof, a 540-degree surround view system and a large touchscreen infotainment display. This popular SUV is priced from just Rs 13.69 lakh (ex-showroom).

Buyers no longer need to depend on a single vehicle, with several options now open to choose luxury, hybrid mileage or budget-friendly cars as per their needs.