Mercedes Benz Cars Under 1 Crore in India (7)

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

•12w

If you usually drive yourself, the Mercedes-Benz CLA EV is a stylish electric sedan that's got a refined and efficient powertrain promising over 500km of real-world range. Additionally, its ride comfort and handling balance are sorted, and the cabin features the latest AI-enabled tech.Do keep in mind, its rear seat is cramped, the seating position is knees-up even at the front, and it misses sun shades for the sunroof and rear windows, and ventilated seats. Alternatively, if your usage is mixed - self and chauffeur-driven, the BMW iX1 is the better bet. It drives well, has a higher seat and better ground clearance, and even though its cabin might not feel as special as the CLA's. But, the build and fit-finish still feels solid, its back seat is more spacious, and then you also get the badge and safety you expect at this price.

Mercedes-Benz CLA Electric

autocar.india

•13w

If you're already leaning towards the Tesla Model Y L, you should go for it, as, for the money, it's one of the best EVs out there. At this time, we're yet to review the L, but the improvements it promises over the standard-wheelbase models are impressive. For one, there's the additional space, captain's chairs for the second row and a usable third row, which already elevates it above most others at this price point. The already long list of features gets an upgrade with heating and ventilation in the second row, faster wireless chargers and an upgraded sound system. They've even added adaptive dampers, which should address a big criticism of the standard models - a harsh ride quality. The biggest gains, however, appear to have been to performance and range, thanks to a dual-motor setup with around 500hp, and with a 681km WLTP range, expect upwards of 500km on a full charge in the real world, as Tesla cars are known to be quite efficient. Downsides you should be aware of - the wheelbase is 150mm longer, but ground clearance has only gone up by 2mm (now 169mm), so be careful over speed breakers. And shortcomings of the old remain, like very few buttons on the interior, and a quality that doesn't feel good enough at this price range. However, we're sure you're familiar with the vehicle already, as you're already inclined towards it. Another alternative that's very appealing is the new Mercedes-Benz CLA Electric, which has an even longer range and tech that's arguably on par with Tesla. However, it is nowhere near as spacious as the Model Y L.

Tesla Model Y

Mercedes-Benz CLA Electric

autocar.india

•14w

For what you're after, the BMW X3 xDrive20d M Sport is the one that fits your brief best. It feels the most engaging to drive without giving up daily comfort, and it feels safe and steady at speed. The 2.0 diesel has strong pull for quick passes, the 8‑speed automatic shifts very smoothly, and the rear-biased xDrive AWD focuses on driving pleasure while still providing a safety net. In the city, it is easy to drive, the engine is quiet enough at low speeds, and visibility is good. You could also consider the new xDrive 30 petrol, which is even more exciting to drive, but we feel the trade-offs to mileage and ride comfort for your mixed usage mean the 20d still feels like the better bet.The Mercedes GLC has slightly softer suspension and a more luxurious interior, but is not quite as fun to drive. And the Land Rover Discovery Sport feels tougher and has the advantage of a small third row of seats, but this Land Rover car simply feels too dated and not as refined in this company. Overall, we would recommend the BMW X3 for you.

BMW X3

Mercedes-Benz GLC

Land Rover Discovery Sport

autocar.india

•14w

For your needs, we'd recommend the Mercedes-Benz GLC from your shortlist. The GLC’s front seats have good lumbar support and wide adjustment, so it is easy to set up a posture that is kind to a weak back, and the cabin is quiet which reduces fatigue on longer days. Between the petrol and diesel, it's a trade-off between mileage and maintenance - the diesel's fuel economy is no doubt better, but this Mercedes-Benz car also requires AdBlue top-ups and DPF regeneration every so often, so keep that in mind.You'll have to stretch well beyond ₹1 crore on-road for the GLE, but then it does ride and drive better, especially if you choose a six-cylinder model with air suspension. As for the BMW iX3, it is still a while away, with a launch not expected before 2027. If you can wait that long, however, it is coming here in long-wheelbase guise, so space and comfort should be plenty. Another offbeat alternative you should consider is the Lexus RX 350h. It fits in your budget, is spacious and comfortable, and offers a unique take on luxury with all the features you might want. Its biggest strength is its hybrid powertrain that is incredibly efficient and reliable too. Lexus' network in India, however, is smaller than Mercedes' or BMW's.

Mercedes-Benz GLC

Lexus RX