Mercedes-Benz GLE variants

autocar.india

•3w

Given your experience with the E250 CDI and your clear priority for reliability and lower servicing costs, the Lexus RX is the recommendation. The RX has a strong reputation for long-term reliability, lower maintenance costs and a very refined ownership experience. Lexus’ hybrid powertrain is proven, efficient and well-suited to Indian conditions, and the brand’s focus on durability and customer service is a key advantage over the German rivals.The Mercedes-Benz GLE and BMW X5 are both excellent SUVs, but they are more complex vehicles with higher long-term maintenance costs and a greater reliance on electronics and software. The Lexus car may not have the same outright performance or brand cachet as the German options, but it is the most sensible choice for an owner looking for a premium SUV that will deliver a hassle-free ownership experience over the long term.

Lexus RX

Mercedes-Benz GLE

BMW X5

autocar.india

•3w

Given your usage pattern of mainly city driving with occasional long runs, the Lexus RX 350h would be our recommendation. The hybrid powertrain is particularly well-suited to your needs, offering excellent refinement and efficiency in urban conditions while still being capable and comfortable on longer journeys. Lexus cars also have a strong reputation for reliability and lower long-term maintenance costs, which addresses your concerns with the E 250 CDI.The Mercedes GLE and BMW X5 are both excellent SUVs, but they are more performance-oriented and can be more expensive to maintain over time. The GLE 300d is a strong diesel option, but with your limited usage, the benefits of a diesel are less compelling. The X5 xDrive30d is similarly impressive, but again, the Lexus hybrid makes more sense for your driving pattern. There are also these cars' respective petrol versions, but coming from a diesel, you might find their respective running costs much higher.The RX 350h strikes the right balance between luxury, efficiency and long-term ownership peace of mind. The only downsides are that it's not that exciting to drive, and that Lexus' network isn't anywhere near as big as Mercedes or BMW cars. But if you have a dealer close to you, and don't mind a more relaxed drive, it is a genuinely premium SUV that should prove to be a more satisfying ownership experience over the long term.

Lexus RX

Mercedes-Benz GLE

BMW X5

autocar.india

•11w

If you want the car in the next few months, buy the current Mercedes-Benz GLE. The India launch date for the new version hasn’t been announced, and going by how Mercedes usually staggers its new launches, you could be waiting around half a year to a year. We don't expect it to be launched before early to mid-2027. Part of the reason is that this Mercedes-Benz car is locally assembled in India, so Mercedes-Benz’s Chakan plant in Maharashtra will first need to prepare for right-hand-drive kits of the updated version.Wait only if you specifically want the fresh look and updated tech, and you are fine holding off at least 6-9 months. The biggest update is the new dashboard with the three-screen 'Superscreen' setup. This includes the new MB.OS software with many new AI-based features packed in, and a generally slicker interface.The updated GLE will, however, likely be mechanically unchanged from the GLE currently on sale. Expect the same engines and suspension setups, which are well-sorted for our roads, and you’re likely to get faster delivery of the current model. Also, expect the new version to be priced higher and come with an initial waiting period.

Mercedes-Benz GLE

autocar.india

•20w

There are plenty of options to choose from - including your Range Rover Sport - which is good to drive and be driven in. However, since you already have one of those in the household, why not consider something different? Cars like the Mercedes GLE and BMW X5 are good options, but since her travel is primarily in the city, an interesting and often overlooked option is the Lexus RX. Unlike her Volvo, this is a strong hybrid, not a PHEV, so there's no need to plug it in to keep the battery topped up. It's also quite enjoyable to drive, offering a serene rear-seat experience when she is chauffeur-driven. Plus, Lexus's uniquely Japanese take on luxury is unlike any other in the segment and would feel like a meaningful change from the Volvo. As a strong hybrid, running costs will be very low, which is a bonus.

Land Rover Range Rover Sport

Mercedes-Benz GLE

BMW X5

autocar.india

•19h

Since mileage is key, most petrol-powered luxury SUVs available in this price will deliver single digit figures, especially given your average speeds of 20kph. The Lexus RX is a car that might interest you. Being a hybrid, fuel efficiency is likely to be impressive. Further, this Lexus car isn't too large to feel cumbersome to drive in the city. Also, it is well-equipped with powered tailgate and ventilated seats that you're looking for.If you're looking for something that's a bit more fun-to-drive, and you don't mind opting for a diesel, you could pick between a BMW X5 and a Mercedes-Benz GLC. The BMW car will be a bit nicer to drive but it misses seat ventilation, while the Mercedes' interior is very impressive, and it packs in the features you're looking for. Hence, it is the GLE 300d that would get our vote.

Lexus RX

Mercedes-Benz GLC

Mercedes-Benz GLE

BMW X5