I want to buy a new SUV around ₹20 lakhs as my primary car. I really love the shape of the Thar Roxx. I want a capable, punchy engine that gives a feeling of great pickup. Mileage is not an issue for me. Most driving will be in the city. Can you suggest an SUV and variant (diesel/petrol)?

Autocar India

•2d

From your list, the Mahindra Scorpio N 4x4 diesel is the safest fit for this use. As a five-seater with the last row folded, it offers a large boot, a tough body and proper 4x4 with low range for slush, snow or rocky terrain. It also has strong pulling power on steep hill roads when fully loaded. Mahindra’s wide service network on these routes is an added advantage when you are far from cities.Be aware that the Scorpio N is not as quiet or as comfortable on long highways as softer monocoque SUVs, and in the city, the ride can feel a bit bouncy. The Mahindra XUV 7XO is the better road car. It is more comfortable and refined, but for your intended usage, it is not as robust or as versatile as the Scorpio N, especially for tougher terrain in the Himalayas where the Scorpio N’s higher ground clearance and proper 4x4 make a real difference. The same limitation applies to options like the Renault Duster Hybrid and Honda Elevate.As for the Mahindra Thar Roxx, it is less comfortable than the Scorpio N, especially in terms of seating and long-distance usability.

Mahindra Scorpio N

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Mahindra Thar Roxx

Renault Duster

Honda Elevate

Autocar India

•2d

Given your usage, you don't necessarily need 4x4. A rear-wheel drive, tough diesel SUV with high ground clearance should suffice. That leaves you with two options: Scorpio N and Thar Roxx. Both these SUVs meet your requirements, and both these will tackle treacherous roads rather effortlessly.Between them, the Scorpio N's ride on the highway feels a touch bumpier, whereas the Thar Roxx feels more settled in comparison. Hence, go for the Scorpio N only if you need that extra row of seats; otherwise, in every other way, the Thar Roxx seems like the better pick for you.

Mahindra Scorpio N

Mahindra Thar Roxx

Autocar India

•1h

For your budget, it’s quite challenging to find an EV that genuinely delivers both a premium feel and strong road presence. Typically, those attributes come with larger electric SUVs that sit in a much higher price bracket.That said, you could consider the Mahindra BE6. It has a very striking, concept-like design that certainly stands out on the road and fits within your budget. In fact, the design is the BE6’s biggest talking point. It’s bold and quite polarising, so while not everyone may like it, it’s impossible to ignore.The interior follows a similarly radical theme, with a modern, tech-heavy layout that feels fresh compared to more conventional offerings in this price range. However, there are a few compromises to be aware of in this Mahindra car. Rear seat space is a bit tight for regular use, and there are some ergonomic quirks that may take getting used to.Given your high monthly running and predictable loop drive, the BE6 could still work well as a distinctive, urban-focused EV provided you’re willing to prioritise design and presence over outright practicality.

Mahindra BE 6