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Asked by: Rajalakshmi

I own a hybrid Grand Vitara and would like to know whether the electric cells in a hybrid also serve the needs of air-conditioning and other electrical peripherals. If there is a separate battery for these functions, does it get charged automatically by the engine when the car is in idle condition?

In the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara hybrid, the air-con and most electrical systems are powered by the main hybrid battery. There is also a small 12-volt battery, but it only runs basic electricals and electronics like the dashboard and locking.When you are stopped with the air-con on, the car uses the hybrid battery first. If that battery level drops, the petrol engine automatically starts. The engine then generates power to recharge the main battery and shuts off again when the battery is fully charged.
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Autocar India team
12 Jan' 26
Asked by: Rajesh

I currently own an i20 and am planning to upgrade to a midsize SUV. I have shortlisted the base variants of the Tata Sierra and Kia Seltos, but I am concerned about power delivery. Between the two, which offers better pickup with a naturally aspirated engine and better value for money?

The base variants of both the Tata Sierra and Seltos come with naturally aspirated 1.5-litre engines. If you are looking for performance and good power delivery, the Seltos' 1.5 engine is better.In fact, the Tata 1.5 NA engine is the weak link in the Sierra, as performance and power delivery are sluggish and nowhere near as responsive as the Kia Seltos’ engine.
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Autocar India team
12 Jan' 26
Asked by: Yash

I want to purchase a new vehicle with a maximum budget of ₹22 lakh. I am slightly confused between the Tata Harrier (diesel), Tata Sierra (diesel), and Tata Safari (diesel). I prefer a diesel car, and my priorities are good looks and low maintenance. Which one should I consider?

The Tata Sierra is a smaller car than the Tata Harrier and Tata Safari, which are in a segment above. But if you like good looks, then the Sierra with its stunning design wins hands down.Also, the 1.5 diesel is cheaper to maintain than the 2.0 diesels in the Harrier and Safari. So, in view of your preference for a diesel Tata SUV, the Sierra is the best choice.
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Autocar India team
12 Jan' 26
Asked by: Harish G

I am planning to purchase a new automatic car in the next 6 months, with an on-road budget of ₹20 lakh in Bangalore. I am preferably looking for an SUV with a 5-star safety rating and a large boot of around 500 litres. I like the Tata Sierra, but am wary of its new naturally aspirated petrol engine paired with a DCA automatic. My annual running is low at around 7,000km, with about 30% highway usage. I understand that my usage does not ideally suit a diesel, but I am still interested due to the mileage and torque benefits. My main concern with diesel engines is DPF issues, given my low running. Do the Sierra or other Tata diesel cars face DPF issues with limited highway use? Are there any better alternatives that suit my requirements?

The Tata Sierra is a very appealing car and definitely worth considering. We have driven the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol with the DCA automatic, and while it is smooth, it feels sluggish, especially on the highway. Quick overtakes of fast-moving trucks require planning and effort.Given that around 30% of your driving is on highways, we would recommend a diesel car instead. It is torquey, has a strong mid-range, and is much better suited to overtaking and relaxed long-distance driving.Regarding DPF concerns, the issue is not low annual mileage but driving pattern. Diesel particulate filters need the car to be driven at steady speeds for some time to clean themselves. Since you do have regular highway usage, your driving pattern should allow the DPF to regenerate properly, making clogging unlikely in normal use.
AI
Autocar India team
12 Jan' 26
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Which Honda CB350 model should I buy?

Published on Oct 02, 2025 12:00:00 PM

Which Honda CB350 model should I buy?

Honda offers the CB350 in three distinct models with different aesthetic touches.

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Autocar India Team 32,250 Views
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