BMW in India (10)

autocar.india

•1w

The BMW 3 Series M Sport Pro at Rs. 70 lakh on-road is a reasonable deal, though not an outright bargain. It remains one of the most engaging luxury sedans to drive, thanks to its strong performance, well-balanced chassis, and genuinely premium cabin. For a first luxury car, it is a very satisfying choice.As for ground clearance, the version sold in India is capable of clearing most speed breakers and potholes without scraping. In fact, it is well-suited to cross-country trips as well. With sensible driving and a bit of care, it can handle most highways and rural roads with ease.

BMW 3 Series

autocar.india

•1w

Within a budget of Rs. 70 lakh, the BMW 3 Series is one of the best choices. However, if ground clearance is a concern, an SUV would be the more practical option. Equivalent SUVs such as the BMW X3 and the Mercedes-Benz GLC will require stretching the budget by another Rs. 10-15 lakh. Otherwise, the alternatives will have to come from a segment below.Since comfort is a priority, it would be worth waiting for the upcoming BMW X1 Long Wheelbase, which is set to launch on 21 August. As it will be assembled in India, pricing is expected to remain competitive and within your budget.The Audi Q3 and Q3 Sportback are also worth considering. They offer a refined petrol engine, smooth performance, and a high-quality cabin. Their only drawback is that they are not the most modern in terms of features. With the new-generation Q3 expected to arrive soon, attractive discounts on the current models are also likely.

BMW 3 Series

BMW 3 Series LWB

Audi Q3

Audi Q3 Sportback

Mercedes-Benz GLC

autocar.india

•2w

Sadly, there is no luxury sedan car within this price bracket. You will have to stretch your budget by at least Rs 10 lakh to get a BMW 2-Series or even a Toyota Camry Hybrid. If you're lucky, you might find a dealer selling an unsold Audi A4 at a heavy discount. However, chances are, you will certainly have to pay more than Rs 40 lakh for it.

BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe

Toyota Camry

Audi A4

autocar.india

•2w

Given your priorities of long-term ownership, reliability, comfort and low running costs, the Lexus ES Hybrid 350h is the most sensible choice. The hybrid powertrain is refined, efficient and well-proven, and Lexus has a strong reputation for reliability and low ownership costs over a 10-12 year period. The new-generation ES that's just been launched is also a genuinely comfortable and luxurious car, with a focus on refinement and rear-seat comfort that suits your usage perfectly.The BMW 530Li LWB and Mercedes E-Class are both excellent cars, and the Mercedes in particular has the strongest brand pull in India. However, as you've pointed out, this Mercedes-Benz car is significantly more expensive than the well-priced Lexus. Similarly, the BMW 530Li LWB is priced higher and offers a more engaging driving experience, but that does not seem to be your primary requirement.If you are genuinely happy with the Lexus car, we would not let brand perception override that decision. The ES 350h is genuinely a premium sedan, and over a decade of ownership, the satisfaction of a reliable, comfortable and refined car will matter far more than the badge on the bonnet.

BMW 5 Series LWB

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

autocar.india

•5w

Skip the Audi A4 and go for the BMW X1. It is the freshest luxury model you’ll get for around Rs. 50-55 lakh, so you won’t be buying something that already feels old, and it will age better than a 5-year-old Audi car A4. Since you’re open to an SUV, the BMW car makes daily life easy. It is compact enough to drive in the city, comfortable on bad roads, and still relaxed at highway speeds. It also gives you more space and a bigger boot than any sedan in this budget, which helps if you have a family or do airport runs often.Do note, though, that the X1's performance is just alright. The X1’s engines are fine, not thrilling, and the cabin doesn’t feel as plush as the bigger German sedans.If you must have a sedan car at this price, look at the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe. It is newer than the A4, sharp to drive, and usually fits the budget, but rear seat space is tight.

BMW X1

BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe

Audi A4