Eight years and two generations – that’s how long the BMW 3-series has been in India for, and for all of that time, it has proven to be the best car in its segment. The new ‘F30’ 3-series that was introduced in 2012 was particularly impressive, and easily set the new standard for the segment with a far wider cache of abilities than ever. But then this new Mercedes C-class, the ‘W205’, is something really special, and even after just a short first drive, it really blew us away. It’s not without its flaws, of course, but even so, we think it has a really good chance of finally dethroning the very talented BMW. And this comparison test just wouldn’t feel complete without the third German, now would it? It’s now the oldest car here by some margin, but in its latest guise, the Audi A4 is more powerful and better-equipped than it was when these three last met.
Speaking of which, back then in 2012, things were a bit different from what they are today. The prices of these cars – even in the top spec – were nearer to Rs 30 lakh than Rs 40 lakh, which is around what they are now. And thanks to the rise of the new ‘compact luxury’ segment, the equations have changed for these three, which have been pushed to make a better case for themselves overnight.
Looking class
And here’s where the C-class immediately strikes the first blow – its regal new look shouts out that it’s no longer the ‘entry-level’ Merc and that it is very closely related to the S-class flagship. Mind you, all these cars have their own intra-brand family resemblance, but it’s Mercedes’ new styling language, though not to a Merc purist’s tastes, that to most eyes conveys a look of luxury best.
Our 3-series test car may look like an extra from a Fast and Furious movie set, but that’s because it’s been draped in BMW’s full range of optional M-Sport accessories. The standard 320d Sport trim has classier-looking bumpers, smaller 17-inch wheels and does without the skirts, spoilers, carbon-fibre trim and racing stripes. It’s a well-proportioned, sporty and handsome sedan, but it simply lacks the wow factor of the new Benz.
The A4 also lacks that wow factor, but its neat, business-like lines are more discreet than either of the others, and like a good suit, that subtle simplicity has its own kind of appeal. Its inoffensive look gives it a broader reach than the others, but it also runs the risk of looking a little too anonymous and ordinary.
Uday Singh
Dipan Sur
Dhruv Dhaka
Viraaj Bhatnagar
