I am considering an automatic, and the choice is between the Kylaq AT, Elevate CVT, and Grand Vitara (GV). I would like to consider the Kylaq, but since my monthly driving is less than 500 km and mostly in the city, would a naturally aspirated engine be better? I plan to keep the car for at least 10 years and want it to be reliable, low-maintenance, with a minimum 4-star safety rating and NVH quality comparable to my 2010 Honda Jazz. I am also willing to consider other SUVs or raised hatchbacks that meet these criteria. Please advise.

Autocar India

•2d

Since your usage is primarily on the highway, we'd suggest you shortlist the Skoda Kylaq and Mahindra XUV 3XO. Both of these cars are solid, safe options, and both deliver strong performance. Between the two, the XUV 3XO feels more spacious at the rear, while the Kylaq has a slightly larger boot.

Skoda Kylaq

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Autocar India

•1d

We would suggest going for the Skoda Kylaq. With your 70 percent highway use, it is the most comfortable and fun to drive compared to the Tata Nexon and Kia Sonet. Coming from a Wagon R AMT, you will notice a big step up in how stable and secure it feels at 80-100 km/h. Also, how well it absorbs bad patches, and how smoothly the 6-speed torque converter automatic shifts without the slight jerk you sometimes feel in an AMT. The 1.0 turbo petrol also has strong mid-range pull, so overtakes are easy even with family and luggage. Safety is another strong point, and its high-speed stability stands out on long drives.Do keep in mind that Skoda’s service network is smaller than Tata's and Kia's, and since all three are turbo petrols, fuel efficiency will not be very high. Also, the rear seat in all three cars is best suited for two adults rather than three, unlike your Wagon R.

Skoda Kylaq

Tata Nexon

Kia Sonet

Maruti Suzuki Wagon R

Autocar India

•10h

You should consider the Honda Elevate ZX CVT. Coming from your Honda City, you'll appreciate the familiarity when it comes to the drive experience and after-sales service. It gets a peppy 1.5-litre petrol engine that's paired to a smooth CVT automatic gearbox, which makes it easy and stress-free to drive. The Elevate also has a comfy rear seat, and getting in/out of the cabin is easy, which your parents will appreciate. The Honda also feels composed going over broken roads and at highway speeds. Alternatively, you can even consider the Hyundai Creta SX IVT, which offers a smoother drive and a more refined cabin.

Honda Elevate

Honda City

Hyundai Creta