Mercedes-Benz E-Class 220d Avantgarde 2.0 Diesel

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With 1,500-2,000 km a month, the E 220d is financially justified, but in NCR the 10-year diesel rule is a deal-breaker. Even if you drive enough to make diesel “paisa vasool”, the car is effectively worthless after 10 years, and that wipes out any savings. DPF is less of a concern at your running, but the NCR rule is the bigger problem.The E 200 petrol is the safer choice. It gives you the same luxury experience, is extremely comfortable in the rear, and is still enjoyable to drive. The BMW 5 Series is the driver’s car of the three, but the E-Class is the better all-round luxury car, especially if you spend time in the back.If you were outside NCR, the E 220d would make sense. In NCR, go for the E 200 petrol. It is the best balance of comfort, performance and long-term ownership. The 5 Series is the better driver’s car, but the E-Class is the better luxury car.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

BMW 5 Series LWB

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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

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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

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If your requirement is to carry five people, then the answer is definitely an SUV. While the Mercedes-Benz E-Class has one of the best back seats for the money, this Mercedes-Benz car is designed to be best for two people and not three. The Audi Q7 is a good option, which also gives you the flexibility of a third row of seats. It's got a smooth and refined V6 petrol engine, comfortable air suspension, and though it is a bit old now, the latest update introduced about a year ago means this Audi car has the most modern creature comforts. Bear in mind, however, that it is likely to go a little over your budget of Rs 90 lakh, but if you can manage the stretch, it is definitely the better choice.

Audi Q7

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

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The new Lexus ES 350h is looks quite different to the previous ES, but the proposition remains the same. It is now a much larger car, with a more imposing design and a significantly more powerful hybrid powertrain. It is no longer the understated luxury sedan the previous ES was, and this is Lexus's new, bolder approach that's unfolding across its model range. Inside too, the relatively old-school use of wood, metal and multiple layers has been traded for a cleaner, minimalist look that's more futuristic and somewhat generic. However, the luxury prospect hasn't changed too much, with high-quality materials, tactile surfaces and even more features. And since it is larger, cabin space has improved too. If you are looking for a more traditional luxury sedan experience, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB is the better choice. It offers a more refined and comfortable ride, a more understated design and a more traditional luxury car ownership experience. The E-Class LWB is also a better chauffeur-driven car, with a more spacious and comfortable rear seat. If you are looking for a more performance-oriented luxury sedan, the BMW 5 Series LWB is worth considering. It offers a more engaging driving experience and a more dynamic character. The Lexus ES may look very different now, but if you're interested, it's worth at least a test drive, because its proposition of refined, hassle-free, efficient Japanese luxury hasn't changed.

Lexus ES

BMW 5 Series LWB

Mercedes-Benz E-Class