Environmentalists may not think highly of big, heavy-duty and powerful SUVs but there are more than a few reasons such models strike a chord with Indian buyers. These SUVs’ sheer size equals huge street cred, their hardy body-on-frame construction means they are built to take a beating and their large diesel engines give them the go to match the show. To many, these Rs 30-lakh SUVs are far more desirable than similar-priced luxury sedans.

The Ford Endeavour and Chevrolet Trailblazer are the newest entrants in the segment and both SUVs have plenty to impress with. Mitsubishi’s Pajero Sport is here as well and though not much more than a bit player today, it’s still a potent SUV that shouldn’t be ignored. Of course, we had to have the undisputed segment champion, the Toyota Fortuner too. For this comparison, we’ve considered the automatic transmission versions of these SUVs. Do note, the Pajero Sport in auto form and the Trailblazer are solely available in 4x2 guise while the Endeavour with the more powerful 3.2-litre engine used here comes with an auto ’box and four-wheel drive as standard. The Fortuner offers the most drivetrain options but it’s the one with the 3.0-litre engine, automatic gearbox and 4x4 that we’re interested in.

As always, the SUVs will be judged on a bunch of parameters like quality, overall comfort, performance and ease of use. Read on to find out about the best SUV.

High rises

Thanks to the way they are put together, body-on-frame SUVs sit high off the ground and that’s what you’ll see here. Each of these four SUVs looks tough and generally commands a lot of respect on our roads. See them together though and you’ll agree that it’s the Endeavour and Trailblazer that appear the most imposing; their chest-high bonnets have a lot to do with this.

The Ford looks like a proper yank tank and though styling is simple, the treatment is modern and attractive. Of the four, it’s the Endeavour that’ll get the most glances. Chevy’s Trailblazer doesn’t make as strong a first impression, but its smart looks do grow on you. Perhaps a bit more chrome detailing would have given it the necessary flash value. The Toyota Fortuner makes good use of the shiny stuff and the Land Cruiser resemblance at the front works well to this day. However, the rest of the design has started showing its age, something which you’ll note about the Pajero too. The tacky and oversized Pajero Sport stickers on the sides don’t do the Mitsubishi any favours either.