I have booked the Tata Sierra EV, but I am concerned about the after-sales service and the possibility of receiving a faulty car.

autocar.india

•2d

Pick the Mahindra XUV 7XO diesel AWD. With your highway-heavy use and worry about EV software stranding you, the diesel AWD is the safer long-trip tool, gives strong torque for quick overtakes, and you are free from charging stops or app glitches. It also answers your hardware questions - the AWD for grip and an independent rear suspension that keeps it stable and comfy on rough patches. The XUV 7XO comes only as a 7 seater, but you can keep the third row folded for a big, usable boot.The Tata Sierra EV is tempting, and its AWD version will be quick and quiet, but early EV software performance can still be hit-or-miss, so it's perhaps better to wait a bit.Moreover, since you have quite a lot of highway driving in your mix, an electric car, even with a range as healthy as the Sierra's, is not the ideal choice. Conversely, since you have a good mix of city and highway driving, the diesel engine in the Mahindra car will get enough of a workout to keep the DPF regenerated as required.

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Tata Sierra EV

autocar.india

•4d

We’ll take this up with Skoda Auto Volkswagen India right away and ask for a clear tyre support policy, stocking timelines for 255/45 R19 and 235/45 R20 in India, and written guidance on approved alternates. We will publish their response. You’re right to call this out. A Rs. 60 lakh CBU that leaves owners hunting for a basic, safety‑critical size is not acceptable. No doubt, import curbs and BIS rules have choked niche sizes, but that is the OEM’s job to solve with their tyre partners, not the owner’s problem.While we push for a fix, two practical options keep you mobile without straying far from spec. For Tiguan R‑Line 255/45 R19, the closest matches are 245/45 R19 or 235/50 R19. For Kodiaq RS 235/45 R20, 255/40 R20 is closest. Only choose tyres with equal or higher load and speed rating, check full‑lock clearance, and do an alignment. With AWD, replace in pairs at a minimum, ideally all four, to avoid drivetrain stress. Expect a small speedometer error.

autocar.india

•46m

Yes, we'd recommend the Wagon R ZXi AMT, especially for a first-time buyer.The AMT is one of the easiest automatic transmissions to get used to. It removes the hassle of operating a clutch in traffic, making city driving much more relaxed. Combined with the Wagon R's light steering, excellent visibility and compact dimensions, it's a very beginner-friendly package.That said, it's important to understand the nature of an AMT. Gear shifts are slower and less seamless than a CVT or torque-converter automatic, and you'll occasionally feel a slight pause during acceleration. If you ease off the accelerator slightly during gear changes, the shifts become much smoother. For everyday city driving, most owners adapt to its behaviour very quickly.If your budget allows, a Hyundai Grand i10 Nios AMT offers a more premium cabin and a slightly more refined driving experience. However, if value, ease of ownership and fuel efficiency are your priorities, the Wagon R ZXi AMT remains one of the best automatic hatchbacks in its price range and an excellent choice for a first-time car buyer.

Maruti Suzuki Wagon R