Nissan X-Trail vs Skoda Kodiaq vs Volkswagen Tiguan vs Jeep Meridian vs Hyundai Tucson vs Toyota Fortuner SUV Comparison for India 2025

This in-depth comparison covers all major premium SUVs that Indian buyers are actively searching for in 2025. The lineup includes the Nissan X-Trail, Skoda Kodiaq, Jeep Meridian, Toyota Fortuner, Hyundai Tucson, MG Gloster and Volkswagen Tiguan. 

Comprehensive Exterior Design Review of Top SUVs in India 2025

Nissan X-Trail: The upcoming Nissan X-Trail features a clean contemporary design with sharp lines and a bold front profile. It has a commuter-oriented silhouette and measures 4680 mm in length, 1840 mm in width and 1725 mm in height. It runs on large 20-inch alloy wheels.

Skoda Kodiaq: The Kodiaq offers a premium and sophisticated appearance with sharp proportions and a confident stance. It measures 4699 mm in length, 1882 mm in width and 1685 mm in height with 18-inch alloy wheels.

Jeep Meridian: The Jeep Meridian resembles an extended Compass at the front but gains a more defined and appealing rear. It has a rugged stance and measures 4769 mm long, 1859 mm wide and 1682 mm tall, equipped with 18-inch wheels.

Toyota Fortuner: The Toyota Fortuner stands tall with its dominating road presence. It is built to look muscular and purposeful. It measures 4795 mm in length, 1855 mm in width and 1835 mm in height and rides on 18-inch wheels.

Hyundai Tucson: The Hyundai Tucson features sharp muscular elements that give it a bold, modern aesthetic. It measures 4630 mm in length, 1865 mm in width and 1665 mm in height with 18-inch wheels.

MG Gloster: The MG Gloster offers the largest and most imposing stance in this segment. It measures 4985 mm in length, 1926 mm in width and 1867 mm in height. The design might not appeal to everyone, but its size provides unmatched presence.

Volkswagen Tiguan: The Tiguan has a clean, understated exterior. It does not demand attention but looks premium upon closer inspection. It measures 4509 mm in length, 1839 mm in width and 1675 mm in height with 18-inch wheels.

Interior Cabin Experience and Features Comparison of Premium SUVs

Nissan X-Trail: The X-Trail offers a spacious and practical cabin but surprisingly misses leather seats at this price point. The 8-inch touchscreen is frequently criticised but performs adequately in daily use.

Skoda Kodiaq: The Kodiaq stands out for its exceptional cabin quality. High-grade materials, strong fit and finish and a refined layout make it one of the most premium interiors in the segment. However, the piano-black surfaces attract fingerprints.

Jeep Meridian: The Meridian features Jeep’s consistent interior philosophy, offering robust build quality, luxury-touch materials and a well-arranged dashboard design.

Hyundai Tucson: Comes with a 2.0-litre diesel engine generating 183 BHP and 416 Nm of torque with an 8AT gearbox or a 2.0-litre petrol engine producing 153 BHP and 190 Nm of torque paired with a 6AT gearbox. Available in FWD or 4WD.

MG Gloster: The Gloster’s interior carries strong luxury appeal with soft-touch materials and rich tan upholstery. It echoes a BMW-inspired aesthetic and offers a premium cabin environment.

Toyota Fortuner: The Fortuner focuses more on practicality and durability rather than outright luxury. Its cabin is large, functional and suited for long journeys and off-road terrain.

Volkswagen Tiguan: The Tiguan offers a minimalist yet premium cabin with high-quality plastics, solid ergonomics and modern infotainment integration.

Performance, Engine Options and Powertrain Capabilities Compared

Nissan X-Trail: Powered by a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol 3-cylinder engine developing 163 BHP and 300 Nm of torque. Paired with a CVT gearbox. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in under 10 seconds but lacks AWD or 4WD.

Skoda Kodiaq: Comes with a 2.0L turbo-petrol engine delivering 190 HP and 320 Nm. Mated to a 7-speed DCT, it achieves 0–100 km/h in 7.8 seconds. It includes a 4WD system and Dynamic Chassis Control.

Jeep Meridian: Offers a 2.0-litre diesel engine producing 170 HP and 350 Nm, paired with manual or automatic transmissions. Available in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations.

Toyota Fortuner: Equipped with a 2.8-litre diesel engine producing up to 204 PS and 500 Nm in the automatic variant. Available in manual and automatic transmissions with RWD and 4WD options.

Hyundai Tucson: Delivered with 2.0-litre petrol and diesel engines producing 153 BHP and 190 Nm or 183 BHP and 416 Nm respectively. Offers 6AT and 8AT gearboxes with FWD and AWD choices.

MG Gloster: The Gloster features a 2.0-litre diesel engine in single-turbo and twin-turbo configurations producing up to 215 BHP and 480 Nm. Both versions pair with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Volkswagen Tiguan: The Tiguan runs a 2.0L TSI engine making 187 HP and 320 Nm, mated to a 7-speed DSG with 4WD.

Specification Comparison Table for 2025 Premium SUVs

Expert Verdict on the Best SUV for This Segment

Spending Rs. 40-45 lakhs on a car with a three-cylinder engine, basic rims and fabric seats might not meet the expectations of many buyers at this price point. It would be great to see brands like Nissan prioritise offering the latest and most competitive products in the Indian market. While it is understandable that global stock can vary, offering outdated models may not resonate well with discerning Indian consumers who seek value for their investment.

Expecting the X-Trail to see a decent number in terms of sale would be difficult if priced at around Rs. 40-45 lakhs. You are better off buying the Skoda Kodiaq or the Tiguan, which offer a more balanced package with premium interiors and 4WD options. The Toyota Fortuner provides rugged appeal and off-road capabilities along with strong resale value and reliable aftersales. While the Hyundai Tucson stands out for its modern design and comfort. The MG Gloster impresses with its powerful diesel engine, luxury and 4WD options.

Choosing the right SUV ultimately comes down to individual preferences and priorities, so it is important to make a well-informed decision before investing in a vehicle. While some models can be quite pricey, especially those imported as completely built units, there are many great options available. Personally, I would go for the Tiguan but I would like to hear about your favourite SUV in the comments.

FAQs:

Which SUV offers the best value for money?

The Skoda Kodiaq and Volkswagen Tiguan offer excellent value due to their premium interiors, strong performance and 4WD capability.

Which SUV is the most powerful?

The MG Gloster with its twin-turbo diesel producing 215 BHP and 480 Nm is the most powerful in this comparison.

Which SUV is the biggest in size?

The MG Gloster is the largest SUV in overall dimensions.

Which SUV is best for off-roading?

The Toyota Fortuner provides the strongest off-road capability with its robust 4WD system and high ground clearance.

Does the Nissan X-Trail justify its price?

The X-Trail may struggle to justify a Rs. 40–45 lakh tag due to its 3-cylinder engine, fabric seating and lack of AWD.

Which SUV has the most premium interior?

The Skoda Kodiaq and MG Gloster offer the most premium cabin experience.

Which SUV offers the best comfort?

The Hyundai Tucson stands out for comfort, refinement and well-balanced performance for daily city and highway use.