Mercedes-Benz E-Class

autocar.india

•1d

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, the E-Class 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 as a product, we would not let brand perception override that decision. The ES 350h is a genuinely premium car, 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

•32w

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 it 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

autocar.india

•33w

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, it 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 it has 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

autocar.india

•16w

Your shortlist today will almost certainly look different in a few years. By then, the current GLC 300d may well be gone, with an electrified or full‑EV GLC taking its place, so banking on that exact diesel variant being available is risky. BMW’s new‑gen 5 Series for India is now only offered as the long‑wheelbase 530Li petrol, so if you specifically want a diesel 520d, there isn’t oneThat’s why the Mercedes‑Benz E 220d remains your best bet for your first and maybe only luxury purchase. The long‑wheelbase E‑Class continues to be the benchmark luxury sedan, with lounge‑like rear space, a calm, almost cocooning ride and outstanding long‑distance ease.You do give up SUV‑style ground clearance and 4Matic traction, but the E-Class’s clearance is actually quite usable by Indian luxury‑sedan standards, and the way it rides and flows at a cruise is more relaxing than a taller SUV anyway.Also in 2027 or early 2028, a facelift of the E-class is expected, and hence, it would be the right time to buy one, and hopefully, you would have saved up enough by then.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

autocar.india

•19w

It's hard to guide you to the perfect fit without knowing more about your requirements and your budget. However, assuming it's a sedan that you are keen on, the ideal upgrade from a 2018 Skoda Superb would be a BMW 3 Series LWB. The long wheelbase opens up lots of legroom at the back, which is something you'd be used to from the Superb. The 3 Series LWB also delivers on ride comfort and is also very nice to drive. The 330Li petrol is particularly impressive. Further up the price ladder, there's the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The interior is not just spacious but very well appointed, and feels properly luxurious. Refinement is fantastic too, and there are loads of features and tech packed into the model as well.

BMW 3 Series LWB

Mercedes-Benz E-Class