I’m confused between the Seltos Diesel HTK+ AT and the 7XO Diesel AT. Which one is better?

Given how tall the driver is, the obvious answer would be to skip past the compact segment and into the midsize sedan and SUV segment. However, at a budget of Rs 16 lakh, you would only get an entry-level version of most midsize cars. There are, however, two exceptions - the Citroen Aircross X and Basalt X. Both these crossovers will be available in fully loaded turbo-petrol automatic guises at just over Rs 16 lakh on road. With the latest X update, it now offers a good selection of features and upmarket interiors. The space and comfort on offer are superb, as is the 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine and 6-speed AT combination. However, Citroen's service network is limited, so if you want an alternative, check out the Kia Syros. Though compact, it offers a lot of space, even for tall drivers.

The Mahindra XUV 7XO is a good option to consider. It is spacious, comfortable and has a smooth ride quality. The XUV 7XO comes with trick new 'Da Vinvi' dampers and hydraulic bump stops. This elevates its ride comfort above the older XUV700. The 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine is refined and has a good amount of power at 203hp, and the 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox is smooth.The XUV 7XO is well equipped with safety features like multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, hill hold assist, Level 2 ADAS features and more. The top-spec AX7 Luxury variant also gets features like a panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree camera, three 12.3-inch touchscreens, connected car tech, ventilated front and middle row of seats and much more. Although the Mahindra XUV 7XO is yet to receive a safety rating. But the older XUV700 had received 5 stars in the Global NCAP crash tests back in 2021, which bodes well for the XUV 7XO too.

Of the two, the Mahindra XUV 7XO is the better pick. The XUV 7XO is packed with tech and is far nicer to drive than the MG Hector, too. Mahindra's engines and gearboxes are highlights, and the 7XO's updated suspension also gives it the edge in ride comfort. Importantly, the 7XO offers a better third-row experience than the Hector Plus. That said, the XUV 7XO is not the best 7-seater for the money. Especially in case the third row space and comfort are a deal breaker for you. The Tata Safari offers a more comfortable third row among petrol/diesel SUVs of the segment. If you are open to electric, the Mahindra XEV 9S is worth a look. While you could think of it as an all-electric version of the XUV 7XO, the 9S does boast of a better third row. The option to slide its middle row seats makes all the difference to balance second and third row space in the cabin.

The best way to save your engine is, of course, to avoid driving in water-logged areas, except in case of an emergency. Also, if possible, park your car somewhere safe and retrieve it when the water level has subsided. No engine, no matter how reliable, should have to endure a hydrostatic lock from water entering the combustion chamber. That said, an SUV will always be far better than a sedan, owing to its higher ground clearance and the relatively higher positioning of the air intakes. Thus, if you're determined to drive through water-logged areas, consider a Force Gurkha. It comes with a high-mounted air intake and a snorkel, which allows it an astonishing 700mm of water wading capability. It should sail through most waterlogged roads without issue.