I want an automatic car with a budget up to ₹13 lakh on-road. I’m torn between the Kia Sonet HTX DCT and the Maruti Suzuki Dzire (top AT/AGS). My driving is mostly city (70-80%), so fuel average and safety are my top concerns. Which should I choose, and are there better alternatives within my budget?

Of the two options, we'd recommend you go for the Maruti Suzuki Dzire AMT ZXI Plus. It delivers significantly better fuel economy in city driving conditions, and there's the reassurance of knowing it's a 5-star Global NCAP-rated vehicle. The Dzire in top-spec form also packs in quite a bit by way of features. 

An alternative is the Maruti Suzuki Fronx Turbo AT Alpha. While its turbocharged engine is not as fuel-efficient as the Dzire's engine, real-world mileage is still good by class standards. There's also the added advantage of a smoother 6-speed automatic transmission.