I own a 2021 Ertiga that has done 30,000 km. I primarily use it for my office commute, with 2-3 long-distance trips per year (about 200-500 km). My office commute is a solo drive, but outside of the office, I use it as a family car for four people and occasionally up to six (including two kids). I’m considering upgrading to an EV, but I’m confused about which option to choose among the different ranges - Hyundai Creta EV, Tata Harrier EV, and Mahindra XEV 9S. I plan to hold this vehicle for at least 4–5 years and prioritise passenger comfort and driving pleasure. Please suggest which EV I should choose.

Autocar India

•22h

If you prefer to stick with a 5-seater SUV format, the new Kia Seltos is a good option. In your budget, you can get the top-of-the-line X-Line diesel automatic. It is a proven engine mated to a slick automatic gearbox, and Kia's service is amongst the best in this segment.However, if you'd like to move to a bigger 7-seater SUV, then the new Mahindra XUV 7XO is worth considering. The AX7 trim with the diesel automatic fits in your budget and is a spacious, feature-packed, powerful SUV with superb ride quality. Mahindra service also generally has a better reputation than Tata. Before you make your choice, make sure you take a test drive of both vehicles.

Kia New Seltos

Mahindra XUV 7XO

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Autocar India

•3d

The Maruti Suzuki E Vitara is a sensible electric car, backed by Nexa's widespread sales and support network. It is also equipped with a large 61kWh battery, with which you can expect a highway range of approximately 370km on a full charge - city range will be better. The interiors feel premium, performance is smooth, and its light steering and tight turning radius make it very easy to manoeuvre. That said, the E Vitara's user experience is flawed, the floor is high, which results in a knees-up seating, and its suspension isn't as sorted as some rivals.We would suggest that you consider the entry-level variants of the Kia Carens Clavis EV or Hyundai Creta Electric, both of which cover the basics well. Yes, these have a smaller 42kWh battery, but their powertrain is very efficient, which will deliver impressive real-world range. Overall, both these are excellent options for similar money as the E Vitara.

Hyundai Creta Electric

Kia Carens Clavis EV

Maruti Suzuki e Vitara

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Autocar India

•2d

Since you are considering the Tata Harrier EV, we assume that having seven seats is not a must. In that case, you could also consider the XEV 9e, which is the more direct competitor to the Harrier EV. It has largely the same premium cabin you like in the XEV 9S, but without the third row of seats.In terms of suspension, the Mahindra XEV 9S has a softer setup than the XEV 9e, which results in noticeable vertical movement on undulating tarmac. It isn’t exactly uncomfortable, but it can feel a bit unsettling out on the highway. The XEV 9e, on the other hand, has a firmer setup and actually feels more composed because of it.Since most of your driving is in the city, the XEV 9S’s softer suspension may not bother you, but do drive the XEV 9e back-to-back to see which you prefer.

Mahindra XEV 9e

Mahindra XEV 9S

Tata Harrier EV

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