I’ve been driving a Datsun Redi-GO for two years and now plan to buy a compact SUV, preferably automatic. I will commute about 50 km daily. I’ve shortlisted the Tata Punch, Citroën C3X and Skoda Kylaq. My budget is around 11 lakh. Which is the best option for me?

Autocar India

•13w

Considering your budget, the Citroen C3X Shine 1.2 Turbo Petrol AT is a solid choice. The Tata Punch offers only an AMT, and the automatic variant of the Skoda Kushaq will take you well past ₹11 lakh.

The C3X’s 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine is reliable, performs well, and comes paired with a 6-speed torque-converter automatic, which will give you a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.

Explore cars mentioned

Citroen

from ₹5.53 Lakh

Tata

Punch

from ₹6.22 Lakh

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Latest questions people are discussing

Hardik

•3d

I am confused between the Punch CNG automatic and the Nexon CNG. Since the Punch is available with an automatic and almost all the same features as the Nexon, should I go for the automatic comfort with the Punch, or will the Nexon still be a better choice?

Autocar India

•1d

Go for the Tata Punch CNG AMT. Not only will you benefit from the low running costs of a CNG, but you also have the convenience of clutch pedal-free driving. Additionally, the Punch's NA engine will be more efficient than the Nexon's turbo unit.Although performance won't be as strong as the Tata Nexon, as a point A-to-B city commuter, the Punch CNG AMT is hard to beat. So, unless you need the extra space or performance, pick the Punch CNG AMT.

Tata Punch

Tata Nexon

RATHI MRINALINI

•2d

I'm a new driver on the road. Been driving a Celerio (second-hand) for the last 2 years in Bangalore. Looking for an automatic petrol car within a budget of ₹9.5 lakh. My priority is safety and ease of adapting to the new car. I am thinking of a Punch. Looking for your suggestion.

Autocar India

•1d

Yes, the Tata Punch Adventure AMT is an excellent option, given your requirements. It's tall with a high seating position, which gives you a commanding view out - great for a new driver, yet it's compact enough not to be intimidating around town. It will also feel like a good upgrade from your old Celerio.Since safety is also a consideration for you, the Punch has been given a 5-star Bharat NCAP crash test rating and gets 6 airbags as standard, plus a good amount of standard safety equipment. If there's a potential drawback, it's that the Punch's 1.2 petrol engine and AMT gearbox aren't the smoothest combination, and as a new driver, the jerkiness at low speeds is something you will have to learn to drive around.Also consider the Hyundai Exter SX Smart AMT and the Nissan Magnite Kuro AMT as well, as both have smoother powertrains than the Punch.

Jithin

I am looking to buy my first car. I am currently looking at the Kia Sonet Diesel Automatic 1.5, which comes at ₹16.25 lakh and the Skoda Slavia Sportline Auto at ₹17 lakh. My main usage would be travelling between Kochi and Bangalore and occasional city drives in and around both cities. I had a Ford Figo 1.5 TDCi earlier, which I loved and would prefer something with a similar driving punch. Which would be an apt choice?

Autocar India

•4h

Since a large part of your driving will be on the Kochi-Bengaluru highway and you enjoyed the performance of your old Ford Figo 1.5 TDCi, choosing a car with strong performance and relaxed cruising ability will make your drives more enjoyable.Between the two, you will likely be happier with the Skoda Slavia 1.5 TSI with the 7-speed DSG. It offers superior performance and refinement compared to the Kia Sonet diesel automatic, especially for highway usage. The Slavia’s turbo-petrol engine delivers effortless acceleration, and the DSG gearbox shifts quickly and smoothly, which makes overtaking and long-distance cruising feel easy.Another advantage is that the 1.5-litre engine features cylinder deactivation, which shuts down two cylinders under light loads such as steady cruising. This helps improve fuel efficiency when driving on the highway. The Slavia also feels more planted and stable at higher speeds, which will be noticeable on your frequent intercity drives.However, we would recommend waiting a little before making the purchase. The Slavia facelift is expected soon, and with it around the corner, it makes sense to see what updates and features the refreshed model brings before committing to the current version.

Skoda Slavia

Kia Sonet

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