[nxshar2]

Hello All,

Some context and background:
I currently drive a Honda city 1.5 vat. There are just the two of us and we have almost zero daily drive. Car usage is mostly limited to weekend city driving. We love doing long road trips so want to keep decent boot space as well, though this can be considered a secondary requirement. Given Indian roads, we want ride comfort but since it would be an 80-90% self drive car, I want something fun to drive as well. I am looking to keep a budget of 70 ish OTR but for select cars it can stretch to a crore plus.

I followed Mathranik's thread and was absolutely sure that I would go for a Macan. I always thought it was the best car around because - the porsche tag of course, the most versatile car - you can get the driving feel of BMW with sport mode, get the comfort of audi and enough boot space. PASM was the one thing that stood out for this car for me. You can go low on expressways and up on bad roads. For about 80/85 OTR Mumbai, it was ideal for us. Covid postponed everything and I started looking last month.

Have been test driving and trying out all and here are my observations. Open to corrections/ feedback on all:

1. Audi (A4/A6/Q5) feels too light on the steering, though a comfortable ride both in front and back.
2. BMW (GL3/ X3) - both give you a lot more feel while driving, ride quality is comfortable despite my apprehensions about run flats. Boot space is severely limited.
3. Mini - Love the looks of the three door hatch. Test drove the JSCooper edition but ride quality is hard and with its lack of basic options like seat adjustments, auto hold, doesn’t seem worth it as the first luxury car.
4. Porsche - The good parts are almost all there with the driving feel, ride comfort and sound system etc. The cons are an on road price of almost 1.15 and lack of PASM. They were not keen to offer any discounts at this point. This combined with reports of new Macan T which would have PASM as standard across board tempts me to wait a bit. The dealership has no idea about potential launch dates in India for Macan T.
5. Reason I am not considering Q7/ X5/ GLE/ Cayenne is that all of them feel too big and elephant-ish to both of us and would have the added body roll because of the size.
6. GLC - good but nothing stands out, wife felt it’s longish and not too comfortable in the back. E class - haven’t TD yet but have heard from multiple sources that it’s a primarily passenger car.

Overall, I keep going back to Macan and questioning if it’s worth it. Another option considered is buying a used one around 30-40 for now and do another upgrade in 2-3 years.

Looking for advice from senior bhpians and other experts on following points:

• Any other obvious choice I might have missed out or obvious misconceptions evident from above observations.
• Wait for Macan T or go for Macan 2022. Dealer says it would be the last petrol Macan.
• Is chip shortage driving a temporary price hike/ feature roll backs which could revert in 6 - 12 months. In that case, would a used option be preferable for now?

[iliketurtles]

Originally Posted by nxshar2

Hello All,

Some context and background:
I currently drive a Honda city 1.5 vat. There are just the two of us and we have almost zero daily drive. Car usage is mostly limited to weekend city driving. We love doing long road trips so want to keep decent boot space as well, though this can be considered a secondary requirement. Given Indian roads, we want ride comfort but since it would be an 80-90% self drive car, I want something fun to drive as well. I am looking to keep a budget of 70 ish OTR but for select cars it can stretch to a crore plus.

Hola!

I read through your list of requirements (fun to drive, not a daily driver, has to deliver on the luxury quotient, good boot space, good GT credentials) and wondered why the Macan is on your list. I say that because I don't think it has particularly good boot space (which you might need every now and then), and like you said, it really does get pricey once you start adding on the options. I'd wait for the Macan, but I really don't think it's the car for you. You'll get much better bang for your buck elsewhere.

If I were you, I'd look at these cars for the below reasons

• Mercedes AMG E53: Effortlessly combines elegant and sporty, and I think fulfils your remit near perfectly. It's at the very upper end of your price band though
• BMW M340i: The blue collared blue-blooded car. Does a lot of things very well, although you'll have to check if boot space is up to your needs, and the ride might be jiggly on 19-inch wheels
• BMW 530d: A distant third on this list for me. Not as fun to drive as the other two, but remarkably well-rounded, and should fulfil almost everything you ask of it. Will need to be retuned to be really fast and fun though
• BMW X3 M: This is probably the only SUV I'd recommend for your use case. It's just the automotive equivalent of a Swiss army knife, and it has no business being as quick as it is. And of course, it'll be more useful than a sedan/notchback. Please look into this one.
• Pre-owned (or new) Audi S5: Audi's might be softer and less engaging , but it works in their favour as GT cars. Subtle, elegant, and with all the usual lashings of luxury.

I would suggest you be open to getting a pre-owned car as well. You have a very healthy budget, and can score a really nice car, irrespective of your brand preferences. I think a Panamera V8 or so is incredibly perfect for your needs (pre-owned), but even then a good example is north of 1 crore. That's just how it is with Porsches...

Good luck with the hunt, let us know how it goes.

[lamborghini]

Honestly, if you're willing to stretch to over Rs. 1Cr - I would agree with Iliketurtles and throw in some more performance oriented vehicles as well.

Recently drove the M340i for a decent drive around Mumbai - and boy! What a car! the ride is stiff, though not unlivable - the suspension flattened out the roads at higher speeds & the performance is mind-blowing!
Yes - the space saver is a little bit of a downer in what is an otherwise practical vehicle that can handle 99% of your touring needs!

Similarly the E53 with the regular wheelbase could be a brilliant option, as could the X3M (though the LCI hasn't been launched yet - hope they maintain the stellar pricing though it seems doubtful).

If all else fails, do take the X430d, 330i, & 530D out for a spin too while you're at the dealers.

If by the end of the day after all these drives, if your heart tugs you towards the Macan - you have your answer!

Regarding pricing - I don't expect prices to roll back, except in the form of discounts once inventory starts to build up.
Buying pre-owned is a good option to consider : not for anything else but for the value it could provide compared to buying the same option new - you could luck out on a GLC 43 AMG Coupe / X3M at a decent deal though do take all the precautions needed : under manufacturer warranty with the option to extend, full service history & pre-purchase inspection at the dealers, low run, etc.

[SNA411]

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Thanks for the support & understanding

[androdev]

Originally Posted by nxshar2

PASM was the one thing that stood out for this car for me. You can go low on expressways and up on bad roads.

You will need air suspension to lower/raise the vehicle, PASM alone won't do it.

"Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM)"

"Adaptive Air Suspension incl. Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM)"

[Turbanator]

Originally Posted by nxshar2

We love doing long road trips so want to keep decent boot space as well. I want something fun to drive as well.
I keep going back to Macan and questioning if it’s worth it.
Wait for Macan T or go for Macan 2022.

You should definitely consider something like a Macan or an X4 (try to find if someone has 3Ltr Diesel). You can wait for the newer T and pay high rates, or simply buy one now with a paid PASM option which will be totally worth it. Remember, with Porsche, nothing comes free, they do come up with some special editions which have a lot of loadings as standard at the end of the model cycle but if you need one now, get one now. Instead of buying something else and going over all the hassles of buying and then selling (losing money/ time in the process)

Originally Posted by androdev

You will need air suspension to lower/raise the vehicle, PASM alone won't do it.

Yes, but PASM still does the same job as adaptive dampers from BMW. It helps, Air suspension in fact spoils the sportiness I will order one without Air suspension whenever Porsche leaves VW

[androdev]

^ Was just clarifying that adaptive suspension (PASM) can only make the suspension soft or hard. To raise and lower the car, one needs air suspension.

To the OP, it's hard to justify the price of Macan. It's a great car - exclusive, great looking all in one in compact size. You can still go ahead and buy if price is not a major factor.

You can consider AMG or //M flavours. GLA 35 AMG comes with 8 years of engine+gb warranty, you can really have a blast without worrying about a thing! Interiors are very good compared to entry level Macan.

[nxshar2]

Thank you, all, for your valuable feedback and suggestions.

Originally Posted by iliketurtles

Hola!

I say that because I don't think it has particularly good boot space (which you might need every now and then),

My city has 550 L of boot vs 480 ish for Macan. I don't think that would be that big a difference especially with the seats folded. Price yes, it's a big thing. Can get a mini and a Q5 probably in what it would cost for Porsche.

I would suggest you be open to getting a pre-owned car as well. You have a very healthy budget, and can score a really nice car, irrespective of your brand preferences. I think a Panamera V8 or so is incredibly perfect for your needs (pre-owned), but even then a good example is north of 1 crore. That's just how it is with Porsches...

Good luck with the hunt, let us know how it goes.

For a used one, I would want to keep it down to 30-40.

Originally Posted by lamborghini

Honestly, if you're willing to stretch to over Rs. 1Cr

I want to go above a Cr only for Porsche, call it a "bachpan ka sapna" add on.

Recently drove the M340i for a decent drive around Mumbai -

Drove the 3 series gran limousine and was very happy with it. will check for M340 TD.

Buying pre-owned is a good option to consider

I fear am lacking in knowledge, skills and diligence that would be needed to purchase and maintain a used car. Moreover when I called BigBoyToyz, I was surprised to see their prices for cars circa 2018-19. Used inventory seems to be low across board right now.

Originally Posted by androdev

You will need air suspension to lower/raise the vehicle, PASM alone won't do it.

"Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM)"

"Adaptive Air Suspension incl. Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM)"

I was made to believe it's one and the same thing. That's what I called it at Porsche dealer. Then salesman made a show and tell of calling it PASM so my bad but I blame the sales guy.

Originally Posted by Turbanator

You should definitely consider something like a Macan or an X4 (try to find if someone has 3Ltr Diesel). You can wait for the newer T and pay high rates, or simply buy one now with a paid PASM option which will be totally worth it. Remember, with Porsche, nothing comes free, they do come up with some special editions which have a lot of loadings as standard at the end of the model cycle but if you need one now, get one now. Instead of buying something else and going over all the hassles of buying and then selling (losing money/ time in the process)

Paid PASM and air suspension can't be added on the 2 litre. I have cross checked with Delhi and Mumbai dealerships. I can do that with three litre but then the price goes up to 1.7! X4 was not available for TD when I went to the showroom. Will try it once available.

Yes, but PASM still does the same job as adaptive dampers from BMW. It helps, Air suspension in fact spoils the sportiness I will order one without Air suspension whenever Porsche leaves VW

That's where the mode settings would help me I think.

Originally Posted by androdev

^

You can consider AMG or //M flavours. GLA 35 AMG comes with 8 years of engine+gb warranty, you can really have a blast without worrying about a thing! Interiors are very good compared to entry level Macan.

The Mercedez guy told me yesterday only that AMGs would be discontinued but would still look at them.

[lamborghini]

Originally Posted by nxshar2

For a used one, I would want to keep it down to 30-40.

Drove the 3 series gran limousine and was very happy with it. will check for M340 TD.

I fear am lacking in knowledge, skills and diligence that would be needed to purchase and maintain a used car. Moreover when I called BigBoyToyz, I was surprised to see their prices for cars circa 2018-19. Used inventory seems to be low across board right now.

The Mercedez guy told me yesterday only that AMGs would be discontinued but would still look at them.

I wouldn't be too worried about the AMGs getting discontinued, if that does indeed happen. Mercedes will still provide the support and honor the warranty : parts will incur a wait however, but that is part and parcel of owning a German (and even slow selling Japs).

The 330i is honestly a brilliant package and a worthy upgrade from the city but since you can stretch : do try the 340i : compact, quick, practical enough.

For pre-owned: avoid glamorous dealers like BBT - the vehicles aren't always clean, may have multiple owners, and are priced at a premium.
The mantra for me is to find a vehicle under manufacturer warranty, with no insurance claim - these vehicles would only be serviced at the dealership as otherwise would impact warranty so they will have a service history which can be checked (make sure its not a demo car), with low running (15K). I personally avoid cars with super dark tints / political stickers / fancy number plates (VVIP number is a plus but not the fancy plates).
Go through service history with a fine comb to make sure it's not a demo car : see when warranty and date of first service as compared to date of registration - in demo the warranty would start much before registration date and often the first service is carried out prior to sale to first buyer on paper.
If all is clean, next step is to do a paid pre purchase inspection by the authorized dealer and then if all green : buy, fix up any pending points - rattles, or new tyres, or a good detail, extend warranty, enjoy!

A good place to search is the tbhp classifieds, portals like carwale.

[IshaanIan]

The X3 sounds like it would fit the bill perfectly for you Your wife is right about the GLC riding a bit too stiff (they are too focused on catering to the young buyer with "sporty" characteristics) even I was taken aback by this I found the GLA to be softer.
Any reason why you have not considered the larger offerings from Mini? The countryman or clubman or whatever they are called these days?

[Sahil]

Here is my advice: Pre owned Macan Techart. https://www.exoticwheelsindia.com/po...kr3y5xspitems0

I have seen this car on sale for a few months. I reckon, if you go visit them with a cheque they will close at good price. It’s a fantastic car with crazy loadings on this example.

I own a pre owned Macan too; with a remap boy does it fly!

If a Pre owned Macan doesn’t work out, I suggest the 340i is a great second option. Frankly Macan at full price is just too much.

[nxshar2]

Originally Posted by lamborghini

The 330i is honestly a brilliant package and a worthy upgrade from the city but since you can stretch : do try the 340i : compact, quick, practical enough.

Mumbai BMW doesn't have GT6 or M340i for TD still, waiting for both.

Originally Posted by IshaanIan

Any reason why you have not considered the larger offerings from Mini? The countryman or clubman or whatever they are called these days?

As a matter of fact, tried the countryman yesterday and it felt too good to be true. All points checked except ventilated seats and discount of just 1.2. Just being a crossover felt a little strage driving position - like very old ambassadors while driving. Is it something one gets used to? But definitely on the shortlist now.

Originally Posted by Sahil

Here is my advice: Pre owned Macan Techart. https://www.exoticwheelsindia.com/po...kr3y5xspitems0

.

These guys are based out of Delhi? Can they sell in Mumbai?

JLR guys keep pushing Evogue, Velar and F pace. Range rover cars look a little boxy to me. Are they worth trying out? Earlier, their service and maintenance histories were not that great, has that changed recently? Wanted to try out XF but TD vehicle is not available.

Scarcity of TD vehicles is also one of the things that makes me question if it's the right time to buy.

[Turbanator]

Originally Posted by nxshar2

JLR guys keep pushing Evogue, Velar and F pace. Range rover cars look a little boxy to me. Are they worth trying out? Earlier, their service and maintenance histories were not that great, has that changed recently?

If you are ok with JLR & 2 doors, do look at Defender-90. Some of the dealers are holding inventories of 2020MY. No crazy discounts though.

[DrVardhan]

Give a try to BMW X4 xDrive30d.
265 horses
620 Nm (juicy)
Top speed 240 km/h
Boot space 525 litres (Bigger than Macan I think)
It will give you the best of both worlds.
And in the new black shadow edition, it looks Godly.



Pic courtesy - google

[Sahil]

Originally Posted by nxshar2

These guys are based out of Delhi? Can they sell in Mumbai?

JLR guys keep pushing Evogue, Velar and F pace.

They are used car dealers, doesn’t matter where they are based. Car can be shipped on a flat bed. Contact them and figure. Would advice paying them a visit to check out the car if you are keen to close.

The velar is same car as my F pace. Including the same engine, which is good but not exciting to drive. Given a choice I pick the Macan over the F pace for self drive any day. The velar although has air suspension now, which is much needed.

You could consider the Velar if you remap it.

I think the car looks brilliant. Not boxy IMO