Mercedes Benz Sedan Cars in India (7)

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

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

•30w

Given the requirements you've listed out, it's hard to go wrong with the Lexus ES 300h. It's the only one in this price range that offers the power recline function at the rear and the ride quality of this Lexus car is superb. Also, being a Toyota underneath, maintenance and services are fewer and more affordable than those of other luxury cars. The Toyota Camry is, of course, even better value, but it doesn't have the same luxurious interior as the Lexus. With German brands having got significantly more expensive lately, the Lexus has somehow remained in the lower price bracket. Alongside the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and BMW 3 Series LWB, which only further enhances its value proposition.

Lexus ES

Toyota Camry

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

BMW 3 Series LWB

autocar.india

•34w

While the SUVs are good options, unless you value the tall seating position and road presence they bring by virtue of their height and boxy shape, there's no need to go there. Ultimately, a sedan will almost always deliver a better driving experience than an equivalent SUV owing to its lower centre of gravity and relatively lighter weight, and factor in the aerodynamic advantage, and it's likely to be more fuel efficient too.While the difference isn't as great in the rear seat these days, in this particular class of cars, it's the sedans that win, with their long-wheelbase designs and luxurious rear seats.We'd recommend the Mercedes-Benz E 450 4Matic, which is as much of a treat from the driver's seat as this Mercedes-Benz car is from the rear. Its 381hp 3.0-litre 6-cylinder petrol engine is powerful and silky smooth, channelling torque to all four wheels for strong power delivery, which is assisted by sharp and precise steering, making for a thrilling driving experience, even for such a long car. The rear seat experience is best in class, with huge amounts of legroom, reclining seats, ambient lighting and powered sunshades all around.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class