BMW Cars in India (25)

autocar.india

•2d

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

autocar.india

•8h

Go for the Skoda Kodiaq Selection L&K. The Mahindra XUV 7XO is a genuinely impressive SUV with strong performance, a feature-rich cabin, and excellent value for money, but the Kodiaq is on a different level. The quality of the materials, the solidity of the build, the refinement, and the overall sense of premium engineering are immediately apparent. Its 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine is also an excellent unit, delivering strong performance and a genuinely enjoyable driving experience. The XUV 7XO is a very good SUV and offers outstanding value for money. However, the Kodiaq feels like a truly premium product, and if budget is not a concern, it is the one to choose.As for after-sales service, Skoda cars network is not as extensive as Mahindra cars, but it has improved significantly in recent years, and ownership experiences are generally positive. If you're open to other brands, the BMW X1 is also worth considering. It is smaller than the Kodiaq, but it is rewarding to drive and offers a genuinely premium experience. Overall, if you can comfortably afford the Kodiaq, it is the SUV that is most likely to keep you satisfied in the long run.

Skoda Kodiaq

BMW X1

Mahindra XUV 7XO

autocar.india

•2m

The new i5 LWB is expected to be a thorough revision of the current model based on the CLAR platform, with Neue Klasse-inspired styling and perhaps battery and motor updates, rather than an outright shift to the Neue Klasse platform of the i3. This is similar to what was done with the BMW i7, which also shares the CLAR platform, as both are only halfway through their life cycles. Besides, that is still some time away, and the only i5 you can buy now is the sporty (and low-slung) M60. You're right about rapidly advancing EV tech, but whether you choose today's i5 or the incoming LCI or LWB, you'll still have a luxurious, comfortable, refined and powerful EV.As for the Lexus, if you're choosing the hybrid, know that it is about half the price of what the i5 LWB will likely cost. There is also the ES Electric, which is closer in price and concept to the i5. Either way, the ES seems like the better choice for you if you plan to purchase today, since as you mentioned, it is presently the more contemporary option. That said, depending on which camp you fall into, a hybrid may already be behind in terms of relevance compared to any EV, so it really comes down to the nature of your usage. For now, in India, pound for pound, a hybrid makes more sense than an EV, so if you're keen on the new ES hybrid, you should go for it.

BMW i7

BMW i5 LWB

Lexus ES Electric

autocar.india

•5h

The BMW 3 Series M Sport Pro at Rs. 70 lakh on-road is a reasonable deal, though not an outright bargain. It remains one of the most engaging luxury sedans to drive, thanks to its strong performance, well-balanced chassis, and genuinely premium cabin. For a first luxury car, it is a very satisfying choice.As for ground clearance, the version sold in India is capable of clearing most speed breakers and potholes without scraping. In fact, it is well-suited to cross-country trips as well. With sensible driving and a bit of care, it can handle most highways and rural roads with ease.

BMW 3 Series

autocar.india

•5d

With a monthly running of around 1,800km, a diesel makes sense. Unfortunately, you aren't spoilt for choice and under Rs 80 lakh, the only premium car is the BMW 3 Series LWB. This BMW car comes with a 2.0-litre diesel engine that is strong, refined and efficient, and the 3 Series strikes a good balance between comfort and driving enjoyment. It is also a genuinely practical family sedan with a spacious cabin and a large boot, making it easy to live with on long journeys. The rear seat is particularly spacious, and the engine is smooth. For an extra Rs 10 lakh, you get the BMW X3, which gets the same engine but in an SUV form factor with much better ground clearance. If you can stretch your budget, the newer X3 would be a good choice, but if you need to stick to Rs 80 lakh, the 320 Ld would be our recommendation.

BMW 3 Series LWB

BMW X3