Top 5 Premium Cars of 2024: BMW 5 Series LWB, Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB, Porsche Panamera and More

As 2024 draws to a close, it is time to reflect on some of the most remarkable premium car launches of the year. Among the standout models are the BMW 5 Series LWB and Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB, both of which redefine luxury with their spacious interiors, cutting-edge features, and powerful performance. The Porsche Panamera also stands out, offering a thrilling driving experience wrapped in elegant design. These models, along with others have captivated automotive enthusiasts and luxury car buyers alike with their impeccable craftsmanship, advanced technology, and premium appeal. Join us as we take a closer look at the top 5 premium cars that made waves in 2024, each setting new standards for performance, luxury, and innovation.

BMW 5 Series LWB

BMW launched the latest generation of its 5 Series in India this year, with three variants: the long-wheelbase model, the i5, and the M5. The 5 Series LWB is offered in the 530Li trim at Rs 72.90 lakh (ex-showroom). The sedan’s sportier design takes inspiration from the all-electric BMW i5, launched last year. Notable exterior features include a large kidney grille, a more angular front bumper with sizable air intakes, sleek wraparound LED taillights, and new adaptive LED headlights.

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Under the hood, the 5 Series is powered by a 2.0-litre twin-turbocharged petrol engine with a 48V mild hybrid system. The engine is paired with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, belting out 255bhp, and 400Nm of torque.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB

Next on the list is the E-Class LWB, launched in October. Priced at Rs 78.50 lakh (ex-showroom), the car is slightly larger than its predecessor, measuring 13mm taller and 14mm longer, with an additional 15mm added to the wheelbase, making it more comparable in size to the S-Class. Its dimensions currently stand at 5,092mm in length, 1,800mm in width, and 1,493mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,094mm. The sedan is offered in five exterior shades: High Tech Silver, Polar White, Graphite Grey, Nautic Blue, and Obsidian Black.

The E-Class has two variants: the E 200 petrol and the E 220d diesel. The E 200 is propelled by a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that delivers 201bhp and 320Nm of torque. The E 220d features a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine producing 194bhp and 440Nm. Both variants come with a 48V mild hybrid system that provides an additional 23bhp and 205Nm for up to 30 seconds, with power sent to the rear wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission.

Porsche Panamera

After its global debut last year, the Italian carmaker launched the third-gen Panamera in India in May, priced at Rs 1.70 crore (ex-showroom). The most notable update is the redesigned front end, featuring a reworked bumper with larger air vents. The new LED headlamps, now equipped with matrix LED technology, provide a sharper, more refined look. The side profile remains sleek with a prominent shoulder line and sloping roofline. At the rear, the elegant wraparound LED taillights, connected by a light bar, are a striking design feature.

The India-spec Panamera is driven by a 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 engine, delivering 349bhp and 500Nm of torque – an increase of 22.6bhp and 50Nm over the previous generation. Mated to an eight-speed PDK automatic transmission, this engine sends power to the rear wheels. The car can reach a top speed of 272km/h and accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 5.1 seconds.

Lexus LM

In mid-March this year, Lexus officially launched the LM in India. Although the Japanese automaker had begun accepting bookings for the premium model earlier, its formal introduction was highly anticipated. The MPV is offered in two variants: the 4-seat Ultra Luxury trim, priced at Rs 2.50 crore, and the 7-seat VIP version, priced at Rs 2 crore (ex-showroom). Both models are powered by a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine paired with a hybrid system, delivering 190bhp and 240Nm of torque, mated to a CVT. The manufacturer claims the LM can cover over 1200 km on a full tank, offering a fuel efficiency of 19.28km/l.

The 4-seater Ultra Luxury version is packed with premium features, including a 48-inch TV, wireless phone chargers, a 23-speaker sound system, adjustable glass panels, an umbrella holder, reading lights, noise-reducing tires, reclining airline-style seats, heated armrests, and more. Additionally, it features an IR matrix sensor that adjusts the cabin temperature based on the occupant's body temperature for optimal comfort.

Lamborghini Urus SE

The Lamborghini Urus SE plug-in hybrid (PHEV) was introduced in India in August with a price tag of Rs 4.57 crore (ex-showroom). This version of the Urus now incorporates electrification, with a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged engine producing 612bhp and 800Nm of torque. The electric motor, paired with a 25.9kWh lithium-ion battery, adds 186bhp and 483Nm, bringing the combined output to 789bhp and 950Nm. It reaches a top speed of 312km/h and can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 3.4 seconds.

Also Read: BMW India to Increase Prices by up to 3% from January 1

The Urus SE features several design updates, including a new bonnet, a redesigned radiator grille, and Matrix LED headlights with a distinct signature, setting it apart from the Urus S. It also comes with fresh Pirelli P Zero tyres mounted on black alloy wheels, available in 21-23 inch sizes. The new tailgate and Y-shaped LED taillights further enhance its look, while a redesigned diffuser and updated spoiler increase downforce by 35% at higher speeds. Improved aerodynamics result in better airflow to both the brakes and engine components.