3 cars with filtered options

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.

The Land Rover Defender hasn't undergone any mechanical changes since its launch, so it is unlikely its ride comfort will be any different from what you experienced. With large SUVs like these, as I'm sure you know from your X5, wheel size and suspension choice also have a huge bearing. 

Air-suspended Defenders ride significantly better than steel-sprung ones in our experience, so make sure you have tried both before making your decision. It isn't particularly sporty, though, and if that is what you're after, you might want to consider moving a bit higher up and checking out the Audi Q8, Porsche Cayenne or Range Rover Sport.

You will not find many used BMW and Audi cars (hatchbacks) in India because very few were ever sold.
BMW did offer the 1 Series hatchback for a short time, but the numbers were still limited.

Instead, it’s better to explore their small SUVs like the Audi Q3 and the BMW X1. If you are open to Mercedes-Benz cars, you can also check the A-Class or B-Class hatchbacks, though these too are rare, or consider the Mercedes GLA. 

When buying a premium used car, though, make sure you buy from the brand itself, as they all have an approved used program. You can also buy one from a very reputable reseller, and if things go wrong, it can be very expensive to fix. 

Though they fall in a similar price range, these SUVs offer very different propositions. The Range Rover Velar is primarily focused on style. It has sleek looks, a low roof and a minimalist interior with high-quality materials. 

However, it is not as practical or spacious as the others. The cabin is smaller, and it only gets five seats. It is also the only one of the three to offer a diesel engine. Overall, it feels better from the driver’s seat than the rear seat.

The Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90 are larger SUVs with 5+2 seating. The third row is best for kids, but it still adds some extra practicality. The Q7 uses a 340hp, 3.0-litre V6 turbo-petrol engine, which offers more effortless power. The XC90 uses a 250hp, 2.0-litre 4-cyl mild-hybrid petrol engine, which is more fuel-efficient. The Volvo also offers more features than the Audi.

All three are excellent SUVs, so the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.

In your budget, it's best to go for the BMW X3, although you might have to stretch by Rs 2-3 lakh. It is the newest SUV, offering a strong 2.0-litre diesel engine, plus the latest tech and a spacious and comfortable cabin. The Discovery Sport is a capable car, but it is quite old now and its age shows; if you need a third row of seats, however, do consider it. The X1, in comparison, is a segment below and offers less powerful engines and, of course, less space. The new Audi Q5 launch is some time away, and while it is capable, note that it will only come in petrol guise, not diesel. You could also consider the Mercedes-Benz GLC, whose 2.0-litre diesel is also strong, and it offers a spacious and luxurious cabin as well.

The Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line is enjoyable to drive but is undoubtedly expensive. Regular maintenance should not be a problem, but the availability of parts could be an issue in case of accident repairs. Expensive imported cars also typically do not retain their value unless there is special market interest.

As an alternative, consider the Skoda Kodiaq, which is essentially the same car underneath but offers more features and a generally plusher interior. Parts availability will also be better for the Kodiaq.

If driving experience is a priority, the Audi Q3 is also worth considering. It may not be cutting-edge inside, but it is engaging to drive with a strong petrol engine. With the next-generation Q3 expected in India next year, you could push for big discounts on the current model.

Budget will determine your options:

• Sub-₹20 lakh: Kia Carens Clavis
• ₹25-30 lakh: Mahindra XUV700
• ₹30-35 lakh: Toyota Innova HyCross
• ₹50-55 lakh: MG Gloster
• ₹60-65 lakh: Land Rover Discovery Sport
• Around ₹1 crore: Audi Q7
• ₹1 crore plus: Mercedes-Benz GLS