9 Best Luxury SUVs in India of 2023

Indian citizens love luxury cars, whether they are BMWs, Audis or Mercedes. One popular section of cars is luxury SUVs.

There have been a number of lavish SUVs released in the country in 2023 so far.

Many of the SUVs are more expensive in India than in other countries as they are brought in through the Completely Built Unit (CBU) route.

CBU refers to several imported cars and bikes which are directly bought in ready shape for sale. The whole car has to be booked and an order has to be placed for a customer to buy it.

As a result, they are taxed more than their original cost.

Boasting grandeur and practicality, here are nine of the best luxury SUVs that have launched in India in 2023 so far.

Lamborghini Urus S

The Lamborghini Urus S is a sports car that doubles up as an SUV.

It has a striking appearance, with 24-inch wheels and sharp angles that are a common sight in most Lamborghinis.

Large Y-shaped LED tail lights adorn the rear along with elliptical twin exhaust pipes.

The interior of the Urus S showcases Lamborghini’s heritage. In the driver’s seat, there is a cockpit-style layout of instruments.

The most intriguing feature is the driving dynamics selector which looks more like something you would find on a plane.

The centre console features two large screens to dish out both information and entertainment.

Under the bonnet is a massive 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine that goes from 0-62 mph in just 3.6 seconds.

In India, the Urus has become popular among celebrities, with Ranveer Singh owning this luxury SUV.

Mercedes-Benz GLS

The Mercedes-Benz GLS is a blend of power, sophistication and luxury.

Unlike its siblings, the GLS is a much taller and wider vehicle.

The GLS borrows its front design lines from the GLE but everything else its different.

The front has the signature logo, flanked by Mercedes’ standard LED headlights.

Huge 21-inch wheels add to its stature and from the side, the long wheelbase looks apparent, but the sleek lines and bold tyre scaffolding give it a neat and solid appearance.

The interior boasts three rows of seats that can seat seven people.

The cabin exudes luxury and comfort while the driver’s seat comes with an automatic adjustment feature, giving you a tailored seating experience.

This luxury SUV comes in three engine options – a 2925cc diesel engine and massive 2999cc and 3982cc petrol engines.

Audi RS Q8

The Audi RS Q8 is still a large SUV but it is leaner than some of its rivals.

Sharp looks and a blacked-out front give this vehicle a stamp of authority and from the side, the RS Q8 has a fastback-like design, coupled with signature RS tailpipes and meaty rear tyres.

The interior is also elegant. What stands out most is the driver’s seat.

A futuristic multi-information display adorns the instrument cluster, which is fully touch-enabled.

Carbon fibre inserts on the dashboard along with an equally eloquent centre console ooze luxury.

The rest of the cabin is all luxury too, with ample legroom and luxury trim thrown in generously.

In terms of performance, the RS Q8 rivals the Lamborghini Urus.

Although the power is slightly less, the RS Q8 is powered by a V8 engine that generates 591 bhp.

BMW X7

When it comes to the BMW X7, massive is one word that comes to mind.

The six-seat luxury SUV is a sight to behold with its distinct grille and sharp headlights.

The rear is just as stunning, with the overhang neatly blending into the car, providing the required boot and seating space.

On the inside is three luxury rows of seats, offering plenty of space.

The driver’s area is packed with technology, which is evident by the customisable digital instruments.

The X7 comes in two engine versions, a 3.0-litre petrol and a 3.0-litre diesel.

Jaguar F-Pace

The Jaguar F-Pace is a popular SUV in India as it promises luxury and practicality.

On either side of the signature grille are sleek LED headlights while the LED tail lights and muscular profile give the F-Pace a suave look.

The interior features leather and aluminium, adding a touch of elegance.

The instruments can be modified to your preference while the central display screen can be used for a variety of functions.

At the rear are air conditioning vents as well as USB-C ports so you can charge your phone.

The F-Pace has 2.0-litre diesel and petrol engines but the most powerful version is the SVR, which is powered by a 5.0-litre petrol engine.

Land Rover Defender

The Land Rover Defender offers both luxury and off-road ability.

The standout design emphasises the lavishness and velour it offers.

But it is the interior which makes it a luxury SUV.

The rear executive seats have a hot stone massage function while the centre of the cabin has a 10-inch touchscreen, where you can create customised profiles for multiple people, allowing each individual to connect their smartphone, select their favourite radio stations and customise their home screen.

With an eight-speed automatic transmission, the Defender has 2.0-litre and 3.0-litre petrol options. A 3.0-litre diesel version is also available.

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon

The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon is a solid choice when it comes off-roading.

It may have a classic design but it is much tougher than it looks.

The grille emphasises the SUV’s toughness while also retaining the classic look.

The flared fenders provide enough room for the tyres and suspension to take on heavy hurdles and give the SUV an aggressive stature.

The rear door can hold the spare tyre and is complete with modern features such as LED lights.

This SUV has fully detachable doors, which allows drivers to thoroughly wash them after a day of off-roading.

Some of the features include rear differentials and an electronically disconnected anti-roll bar.

It is powered by a 2.0-litre engine, producing 268 bhp.

Given that some of the terrains in India is rough, it is no surprise that the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon is a popular choice in 2023.

Porsche Cayenne Coupe

The Porsche Cayenne Coupe boasts style and power.

The roof is similar to the Porsche 911, giving this luxury SUV a sporty feel.

There is also a rear spoiler hidden just below the windscreen and deploys automatically or manually if required. Below that is ‘Porsche’ written in a plastic encasing which looks majestic.

On the inside are comfy seats as well as a stylish cabin that is complete with a panoramic sunroof, providing a spacious feeling.

The centre console features a huge display that provides navigation as well as entertainment.

Under the bonnet, the Cayenne Coupe comes in two options – 3.0-litre and 4.0-litre petrol engines.

Lexus LX 570

This massive SUV is a popular choice among Indians.

Its signature grille stands out and will surely attract attention.

The interior is a sight to behold, boasting an intelligent assistant and a colour head-up display.

At the back are dual 11.4-inch screens, allowing for two video sources to be viewed at the same time. For added convenience, an HDMI port and two USB charging ports are available.

The LX 570 also comes with wireless Apple CarPlay.

This luxury SUV is powered by a 5.7-litre V8 engine that produces 362 bhp.

These nine luxury cars are some of the best SUVs that have launched in India during the first five months of 2023.

Not only are they extravagant but they are also high-performing.

With the second half of 2023 approaching, more innovative and lavish SUVs will become available to the public.