In the current global climate, with strained economies and a new pandemic lockdown every week, car sales are seeing a marked decrease around the globe. However, things are starting to look up, especially for luxury brands in desirable configurations like Mercedes’ GLE and BMW’s X5. The Asia-Pacific market is also one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, and India is seeing several new models introduced under the label of luxury vehicles. There is also a growing interest in electric vehicles, but the infrastructure needed to make them viable is not yet in place. Luckily, significant strides are being taken to bring India in line with countries like the USA or China in this regard.
Luxury Cars Are Still Going Strong In 2021
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Considering all of this, it’s a surprisingly good time to buy a luxury automobile, especially one that hails from European manufacturers. While they do not brawl it out amongst themselves, like the plethora of cheaper brands and nameplates, there is still some pretty stiff competition. However, whether you’re looking for an executive sedan, a luxurious SUV cruiser, or a high-performance sports car, there are plenty of options, each offering its own unique benefits. Here are some of the top choices in each luxury segment.
Sedans and Coupes
While not as popular as they once were, traditional three-box cars still hold quite a bit of appeal. Riding lower to ground, they provide more control and enjoyment, but their smaller dimensions restrict cargo space. In less than full-size variants, the back seat is also not often suited for long drives. Top choices here include:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
The flagship of the three-pointed star marque, the S-Class is an enormous executive sedan with nigh-unparalleled levels of luxury and build quality. It is available with a choice of a twin-turbo V6 or V8 engine, or as a plug-in hybrid with the V6 powertrain. While the V8 is truly monstrous, even the smaller power plants move the hefty exec without much problem. This sprightly acceleration is muted by the comfortable interior and velvety smooth ride quality.
BMW M5 Competition
The performance coupe variant of the standard 5-Series comes equipped with a twin-turbocharged V8, developing 617 horsepower, that launches it from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds. Combined with its refined handling characteristics and compliant chassis, it is one of the most enjoyable mid-size vehicles to drive.
SUVs and Crossovers
Especially popular among budget shoppers, high-riders bring an improved level of practicality to luxury vehicles, a traditionally impractical segment. They boast larger, more accessible cargo holds, and supreme ride comfort. Safety ratings are extremely high in this segment, and even a base-model luxury crossover will come equipped with a long list of active safety and driver-assistance features. Some prime nameplates here include:
Volvo XC90
The Swedish automaker is renowned for its quality interiors, high safety ratings, and supreme levels of comfort. However, it is not as performance-oriented as some of its competitors, favoring composure over all else. It is available as an electric vehicle, though, returning some truly impressive mileage figures for such a hefty vehicle. Naturally, Volvo’s acclaimed safety suite comes standard, but it also gets semi-autonomous driving in the form of Pilot Assist.
Land Rover Range Rover
Not everyone will need an enormous four-wheel-drive SUV, but if you have any desire to venture off the beaten path, you really can’t go wrong with a Range Rover. Not only is it rugged on the outside, with up to 11.7 inches of ground clearance, but the interior is dressed in the finest materials and decked out with all the latest tech. Fuel economy is absolutely terrible, though, which combined with an extremely high starting MSRP results in a very pricey investment.
Sports Cars
These vehicles generally forego all semblance of practicality or reason in the name of sheer driving pleasure. Riding just above the ground, they boast amazing grip when flung around corners and a soundtrack to match their performance. Nevertheless, the luxury variants don’t skimp when it comes to the interior, even if there is very limited passenger space and almost non-existent trunk volume. Some of the most enjoyable sports cars include:
Porsche 911
A name everyone in the motoring scene is well acquainted with, the 911 is one of the most refined sports cars in the world. Driven by a 379-hp twin-turbo boxer-six engine, this dainty roadster races to 60 mph in a commendable 3.8 seconds and reaches top speeds of up to 182 mph. And, while it is lauded for its handling, it is available with an all-wheel drivetrain, too, for even more grip and tenacity. It’s a pricey little number, but well worth the investment.
Lamborghini Huracan Evo
Well out of reach of most aspiring motorists, the Huracan is more of a supercar than a mere sports car. Its potent V10 power plant launches it up to speed in under three seconds and sounds glorious as it does. Naturally, it handles like a superstar thanks to the brand’s Dynamic Vehicle Integration. It also provides a smooth riding experience for a performance-focused machine, meaning you could happily drive it on a daily basis. Of course, there is only room enough for two occupants, and the minaturesque 3.5-cubic-foot trunk could only hold a couple of grocery bags at best.
