[DevSunit]

Go ahead and grab a 330i Sport before it loses on more features and get pricier. All the best for your purchase. Keep us Posted

[Porcupine]

Originally Posted by write2sourav

How about the BMW 3 series (330i Sport model).

This is a much better choice compared to the GLA and X1. It's a beautiful car to drive, and will last you a very long time with it's German build.

[SolidSnake]

I would recommend you to wait till the new Audi Q3 launches. Heard that launch is around the corner with dealers taking unofficial bookings.

Audi is planning to launch the sportback versions also in a limited number at an affordable price to evaluate the interest in the variant.

[jaskiratarora15]

Originally Posted by write2sourav

How about the BMW 3 series (330i Sport model). I suppose this will be a good choice as i am considering a petrol model. The M Sport model will be slightly more expensive for me. In terms of drivability, heard that this one is a fantastic car. I will try to push for some good discounts considering there are many BMW dealers in Delhi-NCR region.

I might have a bias here, but I think the 330i Sport variant is the best bet for you. The variant is difficult to get (I managed one after 4 months of talking and negotiating with the SA), but it is not impossible. M Sport is just show business that you can probably avoid since it won't add much value, IMO.
Discount wise - since the availability is so bad of this variant, discounting is limited and dealers are ready to walk away from the table than budge more than what they have decided initially.

As for 2 series - TOTALLY AVOID. The backseat is very bad and for a few more lakhs you can get the almighty 3 series.
3 series is my first german car as well. Before this I was driving a Hyundai much like yourself. But the car justifies all the crazy fandom it enjoys. It is worth stretching yourself a bit.

[XDriver]

Hi. As an owner of the BMW X1 X Drive 20d (which I bought 4 years ago) I can definitely recommend the X1. It has been a joy to drive. No fuss, trouble free and happy ownership for me. It is practical, perfectly sized for city use and stable on the highway. Only issue is the firm ride on run flats and tyre noise. But if I were to buy now I would blindly go for the 330i. Unless you need the crossover styling and extra ground clearance.
Best wishes

[lamborghini]

Originally Posted by write2sourav

One more question, what's your take on the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe. I understand the car has low ground clearance but in my case it will be maximum 3 members occupying the car. The car looks like a sports car but pocket friendly for people trying to add a BMW badge to their garage.

If you're open to exploring sedans, then the 330i must be on your list instead. It is more practical, quicker, better handling (RWD), and arguably will be more reliable (Because the FWD X1 & 220i both should get a DCT gearbox instead of the tried and tested ZF unit on the RWD 330i) too.
IMO it will also hold it's value better than the 220i in the long run as well.

[evil_grin]

Originally Posted by write2sourav

Friends,

I am looking to purchase a luxury car (SUV only and Petrol option) and having a budget of around 50L. Need some suggestions from the experts on this.

Entry level luxury cars are neither entry level in pricing nor luxurious in feel. So no point getting them. There are only two exceptions:

1. The 3 series. Because it's not too large to chuck like the 5. If you love driving.
3. The GLC, because it's quite luxurious inside, if you can compromise on fun to drive aspect.

What you mention, the X1 and GLA are what i call sub entry level luxurious cars. Sad materials, even sadder space. Better buy a used proper luxury car or one of the new value luxury cars from Skoda like the Superb or Kodiaq. Both avenues will give you twice the value for the same price.

[write2sourav]

Originally Posted by lamborghini

If you're open to exploring sedans, then the 330i must be on your list instead. It is more practical, quicker, better handling (RWD), and arguably will be more reliable (Because the FWD X1 & 220i both should get a DCT gearbox instead of the tried and tested ZF unit on the RWD 330i) too.
IMO it will also hold it's value better than the 220i in the long run as well.

330i is a good choice i also think. I have seen it quite a few times on NCR roads and open to exploring that too. Only thing is it might be slightly difficult to navigate in tight spaces (parking lots of malls with limited space). I will take a TD for sure. Current prices are showing as approx. 54.5 L OTR in Gurgaon. If i can eke out some discounts and make it to <50L will be a great deal!

[write2sourav]

Originally Posted by evil_grin

Entry level luxury cars are neither entry level in pricing nor luxurious in feel. So no point getting them. There are only two exceptions:
=====
Both avenues will give you twice the value for the same price.

I am actually looking beyond luxury lines also. Specifically, keeping an eye on Jeep Compass (AT Top Model), Skoda Kodiaq and the upcoming Tucson. These probably are more VFM.

[lamborghini]

Originally Posted by write2sourav

330i is a good choice i also think. I have seen it quite a few times on NCR roads and open to exploring that too. Only thing is it might be slightly difficult to navigate in tight spaces (parking lots of malls with limited space). I will take a TD for sure. Current prices are showing as approx. 54.5 L OTR in Gurgaon. If i can eke out some discounts and make it to <50L will be a great deal!

The biggest thing you need to get used to is the lower seating + the bonnet length and width.
The car does have good visibility from mirrors and front windshield.
With the parking sensors and camera for safety, you will get used to the dimensions in no time - by the time run-in period is over, you should have a good amount of comfort with the dimensions if not sooner!

[write2sourav]

Originally Posted by evil_grin

Entry level luxury cars are neither entry level in pricing nor luxurious in feel. So no point getting them. There are only two exceptions:

1. The 3 series. Because it's not too large to chuck like the 5. If you love driving.
3. The GLC, because it's quite luxurious inside, if you can compromise on fun to drive aspect.

What you mention, the X1 and GLA are what i call sub entry level luxurious cars. Sad materials, even sadder space. Better buy a used proper luxury car or one of the new value luxury cars from Skoda like the Superb or Kodiaq. Both avenues will give you twice the value for the same price.

Decided not to go ahead with luxury cars as they are not worth the price. The 3 series is beyond budget and the other Mercedes and BMW X1 are not worth the money (considering X1 is the outgoing model now). Have come down a notch below and looking for SUV's. Comparing between Tata Harrier, upcoming Tucson and the Jeep top models (all Diesel versions). Will keep all posted.

[Lux_Noob]

Hi Team bhp world, My first post here so Noob alert!
I am in the market to make an entry into the luxury segment (entry level only with a ~50 lac budget). Considering only SUVs given my 6+ ft and “healthy” frame which counts out the low slung (sporty) sedans in this segment, not to mention the well know road conditions especially in Mumbai with extended monsoons this year.
Shortlisted the usual suspects in the category (as mentioned below) and have done short TD of the vehicles. I have received quotes for the cars and would love to know the opinion of the knowledgable forum if these can be considered good deals or I am better off waiting a few more months towards the year end.

Audi Q3 - My favourite exterior on an entry level SUV but based on YouTube videos (yet to see the car in person due to lack of availability), the interiors are still a notch below what an luxury feel should look like (the tall gear lever is a dealbreaker, I would rather take the A4 type centre console even if it is plain Jane). The current stated pricing (~64 lac on road Mumbai) seems outrageous so this is counted out unless I wait for another year for this to be sold as a CKD or with massive discounts like Q2.

BMW X1 - This certainly felt dated but I still the like the road presence of the car. With a generation change due, I was attracted to this nonetheless in the hope of mouthwatering discounts and visited the Andheri showroom. Did short TD of both the diesel and petrol and liked both the drives (but prefer petrol as the Diesel engine sound is somethign I don’t like even if it is not audible inside). The cabin feels really spacious and premium though dated (but not a dealbreaker level to me). I have a negotiated quote (2 meetings only so far) of ~47 lac. Having gone through the historical precedents based on scouring this forum, I felt something closer to ex-showroom (~43.5) is a fair offer for a car which is due for a generational change, not just a facelift. What do you think?

Merc GLA 220d - This is THE car which checks al the boxes to “wow” you every time you get inside it. Superb cabin design and fairly tech loaded (only bested by Volvo XC40 IMO). While the petrol felt dull even to someone like me who has driven non luxury (but an amazing car Jazz) most of my life, the diesel drive felt better to than the X1 to me in terms of smoothness and easy manouverability from a city driving perspective. What doesn’t work for me is the exterior looks which feels like a swollen i20 and every time I see a GLA on the road, I have to remind myself how much of a great car it is to justify it. Plus 220d on road pricing is ~56 lacs with no discounts on offer (barring 1.5 lac corporate discount). So this option is out for me.

Volvo XC40 mild hybrid - This is my 2nd favorite from an exterior looks perspective and checks most (if not all) boxes in terms of ride quality, modernity and pricing. While the steering wheel is super light, it is something I like given preference for easy driving within the city. Engine does not seem as sporty as X1 or GLA but from a newbie standpoint, that will be nitpicking. It is good enough for the once in a while sporty urges, luxury newbies like me may have. Interiors don’t wow you with luxury but are more subtle if one notices the quality. The tech features (even not counting the semi-autonomous driving stuff) are top notch especially that they now have stock google map inside the car which removes the biggest use case of pairing one’s phone to the car (you can still wire it if you want). 360 degree camera is the only missing feature but then no one in the segment is offering so can’t complain much here. Backseats are borderline dearlbreakers with the high knee position which means barely any thigh support and seats also felt less inviting that the other two I sat in. With my height and width, this car will only see me in the front seats which is where I will be, but even shorter folks will feel better in the x1 or GLA. Regardless, for a good price I am willing to forgo this shortcoming. Quoted price (1 walk-in meeting) was ~50.5 lac on road (the quoted hassle free offer plus some ~50% discount on the insurance which seems inflated in the 1st place based on a simple google search for car insurance). Two incremental question I have for the forum here - 1) is the resale value of Volvo lower than the Germans given their more well known luxury status? 2) Are the fancy features like automatic braking realistic (or shocking) in city driving conditions like Mumbai? While TDing (the T4 as latest B4 was yet to arrive), a scooter at a not super close distance slowed down suddenly and the car braked suddenly. I was wondering what happens in everyday driving from people who own the car, does this not increase the chances of someone banging into your car from behind etc.? Noob alert, once again

[lamborghini]

Originally Posted by Lux_Noob

Hi Team bhp world, My first post here so Noob alert!
I am in the market to make an entry into the luxury segment (entry level only with a ~50 lac budget). Considering only SUVs given my 6+ ft and “healthy” frame which counts out the low slung (sporty) sedans in this segment, not to mention the well know road conditions especially in Mumbai with extended monsoons this year.

Given the Q3 (honestly, I'd throw in a few more lakhs at that price point and pick up a GLA35 AMG) & GLA are out due to budget, that leaves you with the dated X1 (I agree on pricing - pitch both Infinity and Navnit against each other and see if they can bring the price down to the lower half of the 40s), and the XC40 (cramped).

The XC40 is undoubtedly a fresher car that will not feel as outdated, but the legroom dilemma is something you should consider with your family if it is really a deal breaker say 5-8 years down the line.
I wouldn't be much worried about resale, as one aspect of buying a German is the shockingly high depreciation rates! Right now it's a different scene due to shortages where all manufacturers are making a killing, but in general pre-owned Germans depreciate like stink!
Similarly, the older volvo's had a way to switch off the city safety, etc. so check if the same can be switched off on the XC40.

I would also urge you to take a test drive of the following non-German but definitely impressive suspects:
1. Toyota Camry Hybrid & Skoda Superb - If you can live with the lower ground clearance, the space will not be an issue in these compared to any SUV you've chosen & neither would you be missing any features. The Superb will give you 90% of the German experience for 70% of the money, and the Camry with it's softer suspension, reliability, and cost of ownership will appeal to both head and heart.
2. Would you be open to pre-owned, under warranty used cars? If so, can look for 2020 or later (less than 2 years old so they are under manufacturer warranty that can be extended for up to 4 years by you when you buy it), low run with a clean service and accident history. Ideally a 2020 X3 at around 50L is what you should be targeting though keep in mind to have some cash in reserves for expenses (extended warranty, wear and tear items like tyres, and a little backup in case of any issue not covered by warranty or insurance).
3. Mini Countryman - it's not a popular choice, and quality doesn't feel like a proper BMW. But it will be unique, is decently spacious and practical, and the interiors feel a little more modern than the X1.

[Lux_Noob]

Originally Posted by lamborghini

Given the Q3 (honestly, I'd throw in a few more lakhs at that price point and pick up a GLA35 AMG) & GLA are out due to budget, that leaves you with the dated X1 (I agree on pricing - pitch both Infinity and Navnit against each other and see if they can bring the price down to the lower half of the 40s), and the XC40 (cramped).

The XC40 is undoubtedly a fresher car that will not feel as outdated, but the legroom dilemma is something you should consider with your family if it is really a deal breaker say 5-8 years down the line.
I wouldn't be much worried about resale, as one aspect of buying a German is the shockingly high depreciation rates! Right now it's a different scene due to shortages where all manufacturers are making a killing, but in general pre-owned Germans depreciate like stink!
Similarly, the older volvo's had a way to switch off the city safety, etc. so check if the same can be switched off on the XC40.

I would also urge you to take a test drive of the following non-German but definitely impressive suspects:
1. Toyota Camry Hybrid & Skoda Superb - If you can live with the lower ground clearance, the space will not be an issue in these compared to any SUV you've chosen & neither would you be missing any features. The Superb will give you 90% of the German experience for 70% of the money, and the Camry with it's softer suspension, reliability, and cost of ownership will appeal to both head and heart.
2. Would you be open to pre-owned, under warranty used cars? If so, can look for 2020 or later (less than 2 years old so they are under manufacturer warranty that can be extended for up to 4 years by you when you buy it), low run with a clean service and accident history. Ideally a 2020 X3 at around 50L is what you should be targeting though keep in mind to have some cash in reserves for expenses (extended warranty, wear and tear items like tyres, and a little backup in case of any issue not covered by warranty or insurance).
3. Mini Countryman - it's not a popular choice, and quality doesn't feel like a proper BMW. But it will be unique, is decently spacious and practical, and the interiors feel a little more modern than the X1.

Thanks a lot, @Lamborghini for your detailed thoughts.

- On pricing negotiations - BMW folks at Navnit politely told me my expectations of ex-showroom = OTR to be unrealistic and bid goodbye, while Infinity SA said he barely has an X1 left with him in Petrol, and did not even bother to call me. So I guess it still is a seller’s market. For XC40, I have not pressed them yet, but would like to get a feedback if one can eke out more discounts than what are generally published - like the current “hassle free” offer. Having gone through the limited ownership comments on the XCC40, this seems unlikely, but am happy to be enlightened further.

- On alternate car options - I completely agrees that the one segment below cars like Super/Camry are much more VFM in terms of what they offer. I have sat (not driven) in a Camry as well an Accord, many years ago though, but still remember the naturally luxurious feeling once gets inside from just the comfort of the cars while for (at least) the entry level luxury cars, one has to constantly remind themselves of the badge they have poured hard earned Rupees to justify the luxury feel. But, I somehow am smitten by the bug of owning a luxury brand, as well as more executive than sporty appeal (what I am looking for) of both Superb/Camry, hence these options are out. Pre-owned is also out for the same reason as well as the incremental research I need to do to feel confident in owning per-owned expensive vehicles. IF you think logically, it seems fairly foolish to buy these “luxury” vehicles here which are priced >50%+ compared to more developed countries, while our road conditions are at the very least 50%+ worse. Net, these are more “feel” decisions than anything else in the first place. An exception for me in the non luxury segment which is a head turner enough is actually the even one notch lower Octavia with its fantastic sporty exterior and interior look/feel, but alas stated GC is even lower than my good old jazz, so that is out too. For what its worth, if I were not living in Mumbai and especially the Andheri West area where road conditions seem one level worse, this car would have been a consideration assuming ingress/egress is like normal sedans and not the sporty ones. Mini Cooper is certainly a car I point out to every time I see it on the road, but ultimately to me it is the coolest looking hatch than a cool enough SUV, and probably suited for someone in their 20s/early 30s (which I am not) and not 6 ft+ tall with a heavy frame (which I am!).

Maybe I am being too picky (but I do somewhat hide behind blaming my body dimensions which do rule out a fair bit of options) and I do realise that while for the 1st time luxury buyer, the expectation is that there should be no compromise when spending ~50 lacs on cars, I guess one has to be realistic when going for entry level luxury cars, there will be something amiss with each vehicle, you just have to choose what annoys you the least. To that extent, I am narrowing towards XC40 by putting up with rear seat poverty in an otherwise flawless car. A ~3.5 lac delta between an older X1 and up to date XC40 seems a relative no brainer. Hopefully, I can good deals from Volvo folks (team bhp help will be much appreciated , of course).

@Mods, I was trying to post this in the new car price check thread, but it ended up being here. Hope I pressed the right buttons, though if this is up to mods where the posts end up depending on content, I fully understand.

P.S - while TDing the T4 XC40, the SA told me that you can’t disable the automatic braking feature but can choose the level of braking (soft/hard etc.). I am hoping the braking I experienced was not the softest level as it was fairly sharp, though I was trying accelerate hard at that moment and maybe this does not kick in at normal city driving speeds, but this is something I still need to understand better.

[lamborghini]

Originally Posted by Lux_Noob

Thanks a lot, @Lamborghini for your detailed thoughts.

IF you think logically, it seems fairly foolish to buy these “luxury” vehicles here which are priced >50%+ compared to more developed countries, while our road conditions are at the very least 50%+ worse. Net, these are more “feel” decisions than anything else in the first place. An exception for me in the non luxury segment which is a head turner enough is actually the even one notch lower Octavia with its fantastic sporty exterior and interior look/feel, but alas stated GC is even lower than my good old jazz, so that is out too. For what its worth, if I were not living in Mumbai and especially the Andheri West area where road conditions seem one level worse, this car would have been a consideration assuming ingress/egress is like normal sedans and not the sporty ones. Mini Cooper is certainly a car I point out to every time I see it on the road, but ultimately to me it is the coolest looking hatch than a cool enough SUV, and probably suited for someone in their 20s/early 30s (which I am not) and not 6 ft+ tall with a heavy frame (which I am!).

Maybe I am being too picky (but I do somewhat hide behind blaming my body dimensions which do rule out a fair bit of options) and I do realise that while for the 1st time luxury buyer, the expectation is that there should be no compromise when spending ~50 lacs on cars, I guess one has to be realistic when going for entry level luxury cars, there will be something amiss with each vehicle, you just have to choose what annoys you the least. To that extent, I am narrowing towards XC40 by putting up with rear seat poverty in an otherwise flawless car. A ~3.5 lac delta between an older X1 and up to date XC40 seems a relative no brainer.

P.S - while TDing the T4 XC40, the SA told me that you can’t disable the automatic braking feature but can choose the level of braking (soft/hard etc.). I am hoping the braking I experienced was not the softest level as it was fairly sharp, though I was trying accelerate hard at that moment and maybe this does not kick in at normal city driving speeds, but this is something I still need to understand better.

Seems you are sold on the XC40, which is a great choice as well - quality interiors, top notch safety, and they even have the XC40 Recharge - it is priced around 9L more, but the specs and EV environment + fuel costs + bragging right benefits are something to definitely think about as well.

The Mini Cooper Countryman was suggested as you may be able to get a decent offer on the same, and it is based on the X1 platform so space & practicality should be similar while offering a different interior & exterior - all subjective of course to your requirements.

As for making compromises - you're spot on. Even at 2Cr+ people have to pick and choose their battles. The reason for suggesting the Camry / Superb / Tiguan / Kodiaq is that these cars literally offer very similar performance, space, etc. as their luxury counterparts as these brands are part of the luxury network.
Smitten by the Q5 but it's out of budget? The Kodiaq offers everything the Q5 does (little less power though but an added row of seats and a few more features) for much cheaper! Similarly for the Lexus vs Toyota, etc.

As for the Octavia - do take a test drive and have a look at that and even the A4. I haven't heard of any issues with ground clearance and the seat travel is pretty decent. I am 6'2" myself and have/had a healthy body too and I've taken my lowered 3 series to Andheri countless times - the stiffer suspension of the Germans helps more than the numbers - and a good test drive could help alleviate all the worries on your mind!