The premium three-row SUV space in India has a new contender with Volkswagen launching the Volkswagen Tayron R-Line. Priced from ₹46.99 lakh (ex-showroom), the Tayron R-Line becomes Volkswagen’s flagship SUV in the country and is aimed at buyers looking for performance, luxury, and seven-seat practicality. Bookings are now open through official dealerships and online channels with a token amount of ₹51,000. But how does it stack up against established rivals like the Toyota Fortuner and the Jeep Meridian? Here’s a closer look.

The Tayron R-Line is locally manufactured and is built on Volkswagen’s MQB EVO platform, the same architecture that underpins the Tiguan R-Line. It is powered by a 2.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine producing 204 hp and 320 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed DSG automatic gearbox and the brand’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system. Volkswagen claims a 0–100 km/h time of just 7.3 seconds and a top speed of 224 km/h, making it the sportiest SUV among the three in terms of outright performance.

In comparison, the Toyota Fortuner continues to focus on durability and torque. Buyers get a choice between a 2.7-litre petrol engine and a 2.8-litre diesel motor. The diesel variant, now featuring a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, delivers 201 hp and a massive 500 Nm of torque. It is available with both 2WD and 4WD options, reinforcing the Fortuner’s reputation as a tough, go-anywhere SUV with strong resale value and proven reliability.

The Jeep Meridian, meanwhile, positions itself as a more affordable premium option in this segment. It is powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine generating 170 hp and 350 Nm of torque, mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 9-speed automatic transmission. Higher trims like the Limited (O) and Overland come with an all-wheel-drive system, offering decent off-road capability along with Jeep’s signature rugged styling.

When it comes to pricing, the Volkswagen Tayron R-Line sits firmly at the premium end with a price tag of ₹46.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The Toyota Fortuner has a wider range, starting at ₹34.16 lakh and going up to ₹49.59 lakh depending on the variant and drivetrain. The Jeep Meridian is the most affordable of the trio, with prices starting at ₹23.33 lakh, while the top-spec Track Edition is priced at ₹35.45 lakh (ex-showroom).

In summary, the Tayron R-Line is ideal for buyers who prioritise performance, cutting-edge technology, and a refined driving experience. The Fortuner remains the go-to choice for those who want unmatched toughness, high torque, and long-term reliability. The Meridian, on the other hand, appeals to customers looking for a stylish, capable SUV at a relatively lower price point. The “better” SUV ultimately depends on whether your priority is speed and sophistication, brute strength, or value for money.