I want to buy a car that can handle off-roading and comfortably accommodate 7 people. I currently own a 2017 Swift and now want a proper off-roader that can also serve as a family SUV.

Autocar India

•2h

Pick the Honda City e: HEV. Your driving is mostly in the city, and this strong hybrid is very fuel efficient there, easily crossing 20kpl, while the electric assist gives you quick responses and a very smooth drive. It is also a comfy, quiet sedan with loads of rear space, a sorted ride, and a proper safety kit including 6 airbags and ADAS. For those twice-a-year 500 km trips, you do them like any petrol car with no charging stops or range stress. It fits under your Rs. 25 lakh on-road budget and should be easy to live with for 10 years.The only real trade-off is a smaller boot because of the battery, and the sedan’s ground clearance is not SUV-like.If you truly want a full EV, look at the Hyundai Creta Electric. It is within budget, very cheap to run for your 300 km weekly city use, and feels quick and quiet. Just be ready to plan those 500 km trips around fast chargers and a 40-60 minute top-up.

Honda City

Hyundai Creta Electric

Autocar India

•49m

Yes, the Maruti Suzuki Invicto is a solid buy if you want a smooth and efficient family mover. The strong-hybrid powertrain shines in traffic, so you get a quiet, relaxed drive, and it is very fuel-efficient too. Space and comfort are its big strengths, especially the second row, and the light steering and good visibility make this big MPV easy to handle in town.If you often do airport runs or weekend trips, it works well, but be aware of two things. With all three rows up, boot space is tight. Also, when fully loaded on highways, it feels calm rather than quick.It is priced on the higher side for a Maruti, and you miss a few fancy features the Toyota Innova Hycross it is based on gets, but for stress-free city use and long-term running costs, it makes sense.

Maruti Suzuki Invicto

Toyota Innova HyCross

Autocar India

•1h

Pick the Maruti Suzuki Jimny; at this price, it is the only real off-roader that can also play the role of a family SUV. It has a proper 4x4 system with low-range, light body and short overhangs, so it is properly capable off-road. A usable back seat makes school runs and city errands easy, and its small size means parking is stress-free. Running costs and service are simple almost anywhere, being a Maruti.Do note, it is a narrow 4-seater with a small boot, making it ideal for a family of four, not five with luggage. The 1.5 petrol engine is fine in the city but feels underpowered on highways.If your budget is a strict on-road Rs. 15 lakh, look for deals on the Jimny Alpha MT or the Jimny Zeta AT.

Maruti Suzuki Jimny