Our top picks for SUVs under Tk. 70 lakh

In recent times, SUVs have been the more popular category of private commuting vehicles around the world. In Bangladesh, the trend does not fall behind. The subtle height advantage over sedans while having more room in the cabin makes SUVs a premier choice for family vehicles, even supporting the same amount of passengers as a sedan but with more room and boot space. In this week's list, we compiled the top SUVs that we think do more than just being a larger car, offering you a tad bit more in the cabin and outside.

Toyota Harrier (2014-2017) reconditioned

This generation of Harrier (XU30) is the third generation of the Toyota descendant of the Lexus RX series. It was also the most popular midsize SUV in Bangladesh from Toyota until the 4th generation was introduced in 2020. However, the third generation does not fall behind, as the car still looks handsome and relevant to current times compared to the newer generation, with features such as a complete leather interior, dual climate control, a complete JBL sound system and even Apple CarPlay and AndroidAuto on the refresh which was made available from 2016. This generation of the Harrier is still widely available and you can get one starting from 55 lacs for the earlier models. However, we suggest getting the later models as the infotainment system is miles better, which certainly makes a difference in interaction with the car. There are hybrid options out there as well.

Price: Tk. 60-65 lakh

Honda CR-V (2020-present) new

The Honda CR-V has come a long way from their first iteration in 1995 - a barebones car with major suspension issues. The latest 6th generation rendition renders the CR-V, making it one of the safest options to get in the SUV space. It comes with a 1.5-litre turbo engine, which can also support both 2wd and 4wd. The interior is comfortable from the soft leather and the infotainment system has default Apple CarPlay and AndroidAuto support.

Price: Tk. 54-56 lakh (including registration)

Audi Q2 (2021 onwards)

The only new German option that could fit on this list. The Audi Q2 is a good midsize SUV despite being in the smaller spectrum of the bunch. The car comes equipped with a 2.0-litre engine and can get around traffic quite seamlessly. Being a car of European descent, cabin comfort is a top priority and the Q2 has one of the best on the list. The infotainment is responsive and supports Apple CarPlay and AndroidAuto.

Price: Tk. 65-70 lakh

Nissan X-Trail (2020 onwards)

The Nissan X-Trail is a great SUV with features that get the job done. However, the intriguing aspect of the X-Trail is the way it drives. The car comes with a 2-litre hybrid or non-hybrid variant paired with great handling and snappy engine response while being reliable at the same time. The SUV also comes in a 5+2 sitting configuration but that takes some real estate from the boot space. The interior does an okay job with faux leather and infotainment that supports Apple CarPlay and AndroidAuto.

Price: Tk. 60 lakh

Peugeot 3008 (2020 onwards)

Recently launched in Bangladesh, Peugeot has been importing a plethora of models, with the 3008 SUV being the most prominent on local roads. The car comes with a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine which does a good job in pushing traffic. Being a French car, some of the interior cues are orthodox, such as having a smaller than usual steering wheel where you see the tach from above the wheel. Although French cars are notoriously known for having electric mishaps, the 3008 breaks the norm. The car is plenty spacious and the materials used to wrap the interior are soft and of good quality. The base infotainment system is a little laggy but can easily be fixed as the car supports Apple CarPlay and AndroidAuto.

Price: Tk. 61 lakh