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New car purchase

5w

I am buying my first car with a strict budget of ₹20 lakh. I want an SUV with good pickup and speed, a smooth transmission, and high ground clearance suitable for both on-road and off-road use, and it must have 4×4 capability. What should I consider?

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
4w

The Mahindra Thar will easily fall within your Rs 20 lakh budget - it is a rugged off-roader with plenty of ground clearance and strong engine performance. If this is going to be the primary car in your household, you could opt for the Mahindra Thar Roxx MX5 diesel-MT 4x4 variant instead. It will be more convenient when you want to ferry more than one passenger, due to its 5-door arrangement. 

However, if you want something that's a lot more polished, refined and car-like than the Thar/Thar Roxx. Also, if you're willing to sacrifice performance, you could consider the AWD variants of the Maruti Victoris or Toyota Hyryder.

Mahindra Thar

Mahindra Thar

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Latest questions people are discussing

JD

Jaydeep Dawar

2d

I am a first-time car buyer, confused between the Sierra, Seltos and Thar Roxx. Most of my driving will be from town to town and on highways, with long tours and less city usage. I am also looking for comfort for my aged parents. Budget is Rs 10-15 lakh. Please suggest which to buy.

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
1h

The Thar Roxx is a rugged off-roader that can take a lot of abuse, so if your driving is mainly on rough roads, it is a good option. However, the ride is a bit bumpy, and the step into the cabin is quite high, which might be inconvenient for your elderly parents. It makes more sense to look at the Sierra or Seltos.For your budget, you will have to consider only manual transmission options. Between the two, the Kia Seltos is better to drive, but the spacious rear seats of the Sierra are more comfortable. So if your parents are mainly going to be sitting in the rear, we would suggest the Tata Sierra.

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NI

Nia

1d

I am writing to ask for advice for the third time. Age 61. Monthly travel is 800-1,000km, sometimes more. Mostly travel to work and back, plus occasional outstation holiday trips. Outstation long-distance trips may increase in the coming years. I am looking for a reliable and comfortable 5 or 7-seater with good luggage space and good mileage. The vehicle can be petrol, hybrid, diesel or other. It is important that service in case of a breakdown is available across India. Budget up to Rs 35 lakh. Please guide.

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
1h

The Toyota Innova HyCross hybrid or Maruti Suzuki Invicto hybrid are your best bets. These cars have an efficient hybrid powertrain that's likely to deliver around 13kpl in the city and 16kpl on the highway. Moreover, getting in and out is quite easy, the seats are comfortable, and the boot space is plenty. Also, despite being large cars, these are surprisingly easy to drive due to their light steering and good visibility.Lastly, both Toyota and Maruti have stellar reputations for their after-sales service and reliability, so you're likely to enjoy a trouble-free ownership experience by opting for either of these two.

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SK

Sai Kumar Rachamalla

1d

Planning to upgrade my car for safety from a Kwid to a sub-4m SUV. I am confused between the Skoda Kylaq and the Kia Sonet. I liked the Sonet diesel but am worried about DPF issues. For the 1.0-litre turbo, I know the Kylaq is superior, but I am also concerned about maintenance and resale value. The Sonet has everything except safety and has a stiff suspension. I need it for highway and city use and would prefer an automatic. Please suggest.

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
2h

If you liked the Kia Sonet, go for it - it is a polished compact SUV. As you've mentioned, the Skoda's 1.0-litre turbo-petrol is an excellent engine, but the Sonet's isn't too far behind in terms of performance. Kia's DCT is smooth, and on the whole, the Sonet is quite nice to drive too.As far as safety goes, the Sonet packs in more active and passive kit, including ADAS, which the Skoda Kylaq misses. Alternatively, you could also consider the new Hyundai Venue Turbo-DCT.

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Posted on: 12 Jan 2026