Upcoming Mercedes-Benz cars in India (2)

In this price range, you always have to choose badge versus value, as there are some exceptional executive sedans and SUVs available for the same price as entry-level cars with luxury badges on them. If you're after a luxury badge specifically, we recommend the Mercedes-Benz A-Class Limousine, which is excellent value for money, or if you want an SUV, the Audi Q3, which is a little dated now. But offers the best overall package of performance, practicality and comfort. 

However, for the same money, the Toyota Camry offers far more space comfort and mileage thanks to its strong hybrid powertrain, for similar money. And similarly, the Skoda Kodiaq or Volkswagen Tayron offer far greater space, practicality and power than a similarly priced luxury-branded SUV. 

However, these big, seven-seat SUVs with 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engines are quite thirsty and could burn a hole in your pocket at the fuel pumps. However, if you're accustomed to the running costs of an Innova Crysta 2.7 petrol, then these won't be too far off. Of all these, we recommend the Toyota Camry hybrid for its all-encompassing offering of comfort, luxury, space and mileage at this price.

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.  

Given your extremely heavy usage, your decision to choose between diesel or strong hybrid powertrains is correct, as running costs would be through the roof on a petrol vehicle. 

Strong hybrids still have the edge on fuel economy, and the Lexus NX is a superb SUV with a luxurious and well-equipped interior. It's comfortable too, and quite a unique proposition. 

However, when it comes to resale value, sadly, it isn't quite as good as the more established German brands. Thus, we would recommend the Mercedes-Benz GLC 220d. Its diesel engine is strong yet efficient, its 9-speed AT gearbox is smooth, and it has a comfortable ride too. 

Plus, it has a high-quality and high-tech cabin that feels classy and plush, and will likely hold its value better than the other options you've listed here.

All the cars you have shortlisted, being sedans, have similar ground clearance, and for all practical purposes, the Audi A4 is no worse off than the other two. In fact, in our testing, it was the Mercedes-Benz A-Class limousine that required the most care over speed breakers. If ground clearance is a high priority, consider an SUV like the Mercedes GLA, Audi Q3 or BMW X1. 

However, if you want to stick with a sedan, the Audi A4 is the most value for money. Not only is it larger and more spacious than the others, it also has the most comfortable suspension. 

What's more, its 190hp, 2.0-litre turbo petrol is larger and more powerful than the engines on offer in the 2 Series and A-Class, and the most refined among them too. 

Given your budget, however, you could even consider an Audi A6; check if your local Audi dealer is offering any discounts, and it could fit within the outer limits of your budget.

Since you are looking for a bigger SUV than the Hyundai Creta, you can consider the BMW X3 and the Mercedes-Benz GLC. Since you mentioned you do not often get a chance to drive, we would recommend the Mercedes-Benz GLC over the BMW X3. 

It has a more comfortable back seat, the interior feels more plush, and it has a better ride quality than the others. That said, whenever you do get a chance to take the wheel, it is very enjoyable to drive, with strong performance from both the petrol and diesel engines.

Both the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 and GLS 450 are very comfortable and stable at high speeds. However, if you do not need the extra row of seats, the GLE would be a better bet. The GLE is a five-seater and hence is lighter by around 210kg. 

The GLE is also shorter in length, and the wheelbase makes it a bit more stable on the highways, especially over expansion joints. Both SUVs get air suspension and feature an inherently soft ride. But between the two, the GLE would be a bit more comfortable on the highway. 

Both SUVs have similar and excellent NVH performance and feature impressive cabin insulation. So with either one, you won't be disappointed.