While the Volkswagen Taigun (and its sibling the Skoda Kushaq) are the only European-brand SUV options in this price range, you're right to observe that the rear seat isn't great on space and comfort. This will be partially addressed with the facelift - due in early 2026 - which is said to be introducing more rear seat features, like ventilated seats, as well as an updated interior design, which could alleviate your aesthetic concerns.Two alternatives you could consider at this price are the new Kia Seltos, which feels larger and more solid than before, and whose 160hp turbo-petrol engine packs sufficient punch. There's also the new Renault Duster, which promises to be tough and solid like previous iterations, but which will also be more modern and refined this time, while also packing a turbocharged petrol engine.

Yes, the sedan market is unfortunately hanging on by a thread, especially at the mass market end of the spectrum. As such, there's not much available between midsize sedans like the Honda City and Volkswagen Virtus, and luxury offerings from BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi. However, depending on your budget, there are two routes you could go down.First, the Toyota Camry, which, despite costing close to ₹50 lakh, offers excellent value when you look at the overall package. The other is the BYD Seal, which also offers strong value at a similar price point, along with impressive electric performance.Of the two, the Camry might be better suited to your needs as it's more comfortable and relaxed for city driving, though the Seal is more engaging from behind the wheel.

The Kia Carens Clavis is a great 7-seater. It is very spacious, and even tall adults can sit in the last row without any issue. The cabin feels very premium, with high-quality materials used, and even the lower variants offer impressive standard equipment, which makes the entry-level 1.5-litre petrol versions excellent value for money.The 1.5L petrol engine is smooth and refined, and in our tests, it accelerated quickly than the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, indicating better drivability too. This engine is shared with the Carens, Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Hyundai Verna, and it has been quite reliable so far. Service and maintenance costs are also on par with, or even lower than, its rivals.

The Mahindra XUV700 is a good option to consider. It is available with a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine that makes 200hp and 380Nm of torque. It is available with a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic gearbox.The XUV700 is spacious and comfortable, and the second row can easily accommodate three passengers. The cabin is well-built, and the quality of materials used is good. This Mahindra car is also well-equipped and gets features like a panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree camera, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.The XUV700 has a 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP and is one of the safest cars in its class. The XUV700 is priced between Rs 14.64 lakh and Rs 24.99 lakh (ex-showroom, India). Do note, however, the XUV700 will be replaced by its facelifted version - the Mahindra XUV 7XO - in early 2026. So if you're not in a hurry, it's worth waiting for that to be launched.