Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Autocar India

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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

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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

Autocar India

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The two long-wheelbase luxury limousines are closely matched. Unlike previous iterations of the BMW 5 Series, which created a more emotional connection, this new G68 long-wheelbase model is actually the more rational choice, even compared to the Mercedes-Benz E-Class.It's got (slightly) more space in the rear seat, better ground clearance and, as you've pointed out, more comfortable ride quality. Yet it also remains the better of the two to drive, thanks to a more powerful four-cylinder petrol engine and sharper dynamics. However, despite all this, the E-Class remains the superior choice, if only slightly. That's because where it lags behind the 5, it does so by the smallest of margins.And where it excels, it goes far ahead. More than brand value, it's the sense of luxury in the E-Class that's far greater. Especially in the rear seat with power-reclining seat backs, softer seats and powered window blinds (a sore miss on the BMW).As the car is for your father, and presuming he is primarily chauffeur-driven, this will prove far more appealing. And for the times when you have to drive, the E-Class is no slouch either.

BMW 5 Series LWB

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Autocar India

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Honestly, with Mercedes cars in general and the E-Class in particular, both petrol and diesel engine options are so capable that it's really a matter of preference which one you choose. The price difference is negligible, too. The E 200 petrol gets you slightly greater refinement, but that's about its only advantage.The E 220d's OM654 1993cc, four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine is smooth, refined and, with 440Nm of torque, packs a decent punch too. Its biggest advantage, however, is the lower running costs, with the combined lower cost of diesel fuel, and the better fuel economy that could get you over 700km on a single tankful if you drive carefully.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Autocar India

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At under Rs 1 crore, the best luxury car you can buy is the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. With its long wheelbase, compliant suspension tuning and comfortable, reclining rear seats, it offers one of the best back-seat experiences on the market. And that aside, it's very well equipped and has a strong selection of petrol and diesel engines as well.If you'd prefer an SUV, the Range Rover Velar is also a good option, being stylish inside and out, with a cool, minimalist interior. If you want more space, the Audi Q7 offers three rows of seats and excellent value for money.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Land Rover Range Rover Velar

Audi Q7

Autocar India

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Both the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and BMW 5 Series are large, long-wheelbase sedans that are best enjoyed from the back seat. That being said, both are quite enjoyable from the driver's seat too and come with powerful engines, well-tuned chassis and nicely calibrated steering setups. There are subtle differences - the BMW is more powerful and has a comfier ride, while the Mercedes has sharper steering and gives you the option of a diesel engine. However, both cars are pushing Rs 90 lakh with their on-road prices, but another thing to keep in mind is their large size and long wheelbase, which need to be handled with care over speed bumps or over bad roads, such as the ones you will encounter. The E-Class is the better car of these two overall, but you should also check out the Audi A6, which not only has a more manageable wheelbase with better ground clearance, but it's also more affordable. Plus, it's incredibly comfortable as well as enjoyable to drive.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

BMW 5 Series LWB

Audi A6

Autocar India

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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

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There isn’t one car that meets all your requirements, though the Mercedes-Benz E 450 4Matic comes closest. It’s got fantastic rear seats with excellent legroom, though heating and ventilation are missing. The six-cylinder petrol engine is also a highlight, delivering great performance with silky refinement. The 4Matic AWD system also adds to confidence and helps you make the most of the power.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Autocar India

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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