Latest questions answered by experts

Hi Autocar Team, I'm looking for some guidance on whether I've made the right decision or whether I should reconsider before delivery. My current car is Toyota Etios Liva V Petrol, which has been extremely reliable but now it delivers only around 10-12 kpl for my usage. This results in high running costs. My monthly driving is approximately 1,200-1,500 km that consists of daily commute and occasional highway trips. My initial plan was to keep costs under control and I had booked the Tata Punch EV Empowered+ 40 kWh, largely to restrict my budget to around Rs. 15 lakh on-road. However, while researching alternatives up to approximately Rs. 20 lakh ex-showroom in Kerala, I ended up booking the Kia Syros EV X-Line. The Syros EV appeals to me because of significantly better rear-seat space and cabin width as compared to my Etios Liva, more premium interior and features, better long-term family comfort, larger battery and range as well as better overall sense of upgrade from my current car. However, I'm still feeling anxious about whether I'm overspending. The jump in EMI from the Punch EV to the Syros EV is substantial and will have a noticeable impact on my monthly finances. While I can manage it, I want to be sure that the additional expenditure is genuinely justified and not merely an emotional decision. Based on my monthly running of 1,200-1,500 km, could you please advise if the Syros EV worth the additional cost over the Punch EV 40 kWh? From a value-for-money perspective, would you proceed with the Syros EV or step back to the Punch EV? Are there any other EVs under Rs. 20 lakh ex-showroom that I should seriously consider instead? I am not interested in the MG Windsor EV due to its styling, so alternatives apart from the Windsor would be appreciated. If you were in my position and were planning to keep the vehicle for 8-10 years, which option would you choose and why? Looking forward to your expert opinion.

•5m

You have made a sensible shortlist and your thinking is on the right track. The key question here is whether the Syros EV's higher cost is justified by your usage and priorities. At 1,200-1,500 km a month, an EV makes strong financial sense, but the Punch EV 40 kWh already delivers a very low running cost and a usable real-world range. The Syros EV's larger battery and longer range are nice to have, but the real justification for the extra spend is the significantly larger cabin, wider rear seat and more premium interior, which will make a meaningful difference to family comfort over an 8-10 year ownership period.If your primary concern is value for money and keeping EMIs under control, the Punch EV 40 kWh is the more rational choice. It will do the job well and keep your running costs low. However, if you are looking for a genuine upgrade from the Etios Liva and want a car that will feel comfortable and premium for the long term, the Syros EV is worth the extra spend. It is not just an emotional decision - the additional space and comfort will matter over time.Given your usage and ownership horizon, we would lean towards the Syros EV X-Line. It strikes a better balance between running cost savings and long-term comfort, and it feels like a proper step up from your current car. If you are not comfortable with the EMI jump, the Punch EV remains a very good alternative, but the Syros EV is the more complete upgrade.

Kia Syros EV

Tata Punch EV

•9h

Hello, I am planning to buy an EV that I need for a daily commute 170 km out which 80 km is on expressway. Rest is on state highway and city with heavy vehicle traffic. I am looking for a comfortable 7-seater for long term for at least next 8-10 years. I am inclined towards MG Tomahawk top trim and XEV 9s pack two Above 70kWh. Please advise.

•34m

With your 170km daily commute, including 80km on the expressway, the Tomahawk EV is a very strong fit. The 69.2kWh battery gives it a claimed 517km range, while our first drive review found it delivered 4.85km/kWh in a fast highway run, translating to around 336km of real-world range. That gives you a useful buffer for your daily commute.For your requirement of a comfortable 7-seater, the Tomahawk also has a spacious second row with excellent legroom, reclining seats and good third-row access. The third row is usable for adults on shorter journeys, although boot space with all three rows up is limited.The XEV 9S Pack Two Above 70 is the more sophisticated and performance-oriented option, but the Tomahawk's strengths are better aligned with your priorities: comfort, space and easy highway cruising. Our first drive also found it surprisingly easy to drive despite its size, with excellent visibility and light steering.The only concern is that the Tomahawk is a new EV, so there is no established 8–10 year ownership track record yet. An extended warranty would therefore be worth considering.

MG Hector Tomahawk EV

Mahindra XEV 9S

•9h

My monthly running is 3000km that translates to 40000 kilometers annually with most round trip of around 400-500 km thrice a month on highway. I own a petrol car and its mileage is close to 14 kpl. Should I opt for EV under 20 lakh budget or should I look for diesel or strong hybrid?In hybrid, we will not have a better boot space since we always use it to carry stuff.

•1h

With 40,000 km a year and frequent 400-500 km highway trips, a diesel SUV is the most sensible choice. At that kind of running, fuel efficiency and ease of long-distance travel become the top priorities. Diesel engines are still the most cost-effective option for high-mileage highway use, and you will recover the higher purchase price very quickly. An EV under Rs 20 lakh is not the right solution for your usage pattern. While EVs are excellent for city driving and predictable daily commutes, your frequent long highway runs would require careful charging planning and add unnecessary complexity to your ownership experience. Strong hybrids are a good middle ground, but as you rightly pointed out, many hybrid SUVs compromise boot space due to battery packaging, which is a problem if you regularly carry a lot of luggage. A diesel SUV like the Mahindra XUV 7XO or if you want something smaller then the Kia Seltos is the most practical and cost-effective solution for your usage.

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Kia Seltos

•2d

I have a Yamaha FZ25 (2021 model), with around 14,000 km on the odometer. Its ABS unit has failed. Yamaha service centre in Bangalore is quoting around Rs. 20,000 for a new ABS unit + labour charges. I'm currently considering refurbishing the existing ABS unit since I found an ABS specialist in Kerala who can repair the ABS modulator for around Rs. 6,000, with a 4-month warranty. The plan would be to remove the unit in Bangalore, courier it to them, get it repaired and then reinstall it. Other option to replace it with a used ABS unit/motor. A local workshop says they can source a used ABS unit/motor and fit it. I am not sure about the reliability history of a used unit. I can also continue using the bike without the ABS as its brakes are currently working as conventional brakes, but obviously without the ABS safety function. Another option is to replace it with a new Yamaha ABS unit that is around Rs. 20,000 which includes the unit and labour charges as per Yamaha. Which option would you recommend? Also, has anyone got FZ25/Yamaha ABS unit repaired or replaced in Bangalore?

•1h

If you plan to keep the bike for the next 2-3 years (and it does seem like the bike has plenty of life left, so you should), then we'd recommend splurging on the new ABS unit. If, however, you do not plan to keep the bike for more than 1 year or so, get the ABS motor repaired or source a used one and make do.

•2d

I want to buy my first bike. I already have an Activa but I would like to travel around 300-600 km once in a month or once in two months for 20- 30 km a day in city. I wanted to travel in North India sometimes which may include a Ladakh trip as well. So, I need a bike that is suitable for all of my requirements under a budget of around 3 to 3.5 lakh. I have Suzuki V-Strom SX, Triumph Speed 400, Meteor 350 and all such kinds of bikes in mind. I've checked each and every bike specifications but I couldn't decide .So please help me out in choosing my first bike.

•2h

If you can live with its tall 835mm seat height, the 350cc Triumph Scrambler 400 X seems like a bike that would suit your needs very well. Even the Speed 400 will handle all of this but the Scrambler brings an effortless ability to tackle rough roads which its road-focused sibling doesn't. You should also check out the Royal Enfield Scram 440 because it will be similarly capable over longer distances and bad roads but it does have a lower performance ceiling owing to its less powerful engine and heavier kerb weight. A test ride of these 2 should help you decide which one suits your needs better.

Triumph Speed 400

Triumph Scrambler 400 X

Royal Enfield Scram 440

•1d

Hello guys, I’m a 30 year old working professional and am looking to buy an EV mainly for city commute and occasional highway driving (20%). I appreciate build and ride quality, refinement and reliability. The EVs that I’m mainly looking at are the Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, BYD Sealion 7 and BMW iX1. Which do you think will be the right fit for my use case? I’m actually leaning towards the Korean cars and am not willing to spend for the iX1 just for its badge value. Thank you for the answer in advance. You guys are a great source of reliable and measured Automative content in this country. Really appreciate it!

•2h

The Kia EV6 is the most driver-focused option from the list with a sportier character and sharper handling, but it comes at a premium which might not make it justify the stretch. However, Kia dealers are offering significant discounts which could bring its price at par with the others, and only then is it a compelling buy.After its recent update, the new Hyundai Ioniq 5 no longer feels value for money, but it remains a comfortable, feature-loaded and practical option, now with more range and better DC fast charging capability. Hyundai’s service network and ownership experience are also strong, which matters for long-term peace of mind.The BYD Sealion 7 feels like a flagship offering, with a luxurious interior and a laundry list of features. Surprisingly, the two-wheel drive version is the most value-for-money option here, which makes it very compelling. However, it doesn't drive as well as the BMW, nor is its after-sales support as widespread as the others. The BMW iX1 is a fundamentally sorted car, and is relatively more compact for city usage. Its ride-handling balance are excellent and it also comes with the snob value of the BMW badge. As a 30-year old, the iX1 will speak of your success and achievements like no other. But it lacks several features, hence it might not seem value for money.In summary, get the Kia EV6 for the best drive experience provided you get a substantial discount that brings its price close to others. But if you're looking for the best bang for your buck, opt for the rear-wheel drive BYD Sealion 7.

I would like to buy a new car especially SUV in the budget of around 16 lakh. I am travelling around 1200 km monthly. Which is suitable for me between electric or petrol automatic car? My preferences are Maruti Suzuki Brezza ZXi Petrol Automatic, Tata Nexon EV Creative 45 electric and Hyundai Venue HX6 AND HX5. Which will be better for me? I am giving more importance to fuel efficiency, low cost maintenance and safety.

•3h

With a budget of around Rs 16 lakh and a monthly running of 1,200 km, the decision between petrol automatic and electric comes down to your usage pattern and priorities. Since you are giving more importance to fuel efficiency, low maintenance and safety, the Maruti Suzuki Brezza ZXi petrol automatic is the most sensible choice from your shortlist. The Brezza is a proven, reliable car with a wide service network, low maintenance costs and a comfortable ownership experience. It is also a safe car with a good reputation for long-term durability, which is important given your running.The Hyundai Venue HX6 and HX5 are also strong contenders, offering a more premium cabin and a slightly more refined driving experience, but the Brezza edges them out on reliability and ownership costs. The Tata Nexon 3.0 Creative 45 EV is a good electric option, but at 1,200 km a month, the cost savings over petrol are not significant enough to justify the higher upfront cost and the dependency on charging infrastructure, unless you have a dedicated home charger and a predictable usage pattern.Overall, the Brezza ZXi petrol automatic strikes the best balance between efficiency, low maintenance and long-term peace of mind.

Currently driving a XUV700 but thinking of moving to something like Victoris for easier city driving. Anyone else gone from a large SUV to a smaller one, how did it feel?

•1d

I’ve been driving a Maruti Ritz Diesel for approximately 7 years and am looking for a proper upgrade. My running is around 750-1,000 km/month, with 75-80% highway driving, and typical long trips of 200-250 km one way. My budget is roughly Rs. 19-22 lakh (on-road) in Bangalore. I generally keep my cars for a long time, so long-term reliability and highway performance matter more to me than just features. I have shortlisted Kia Seltos 1.5 Turbo DCT that is around Rs. 20.6 lakh. This is probably the most fun of all the options. The turbo feels strong and the DCT is quick and smooth. My concern is long-term ownership because it is a dry-clutch DCT, and I’m wondering about DCT/turbo-petrol reliability over 5+ years. It is also around Rs. 1 lakh cheaper than the diesel. Another shortlisted car is Kia Seltos 1.5 Diesel AT for around Rs. 21.6 lakh. This feels like the natural upgrade from my Ritz Diesel. It generates 250 Nm torque, highway performance and potentially better mileage that are better for my usage. But my running is only 750-1,000 km/month, so I’m wondering whether the extra 1L and diesel-specific considerations, particularly DPF, are worth it when I don’t drive that much in the city. Would love to hear from long-term Seltos diesel owners. Another shortlisted car is Renault Duster 1.3 Turbo DCT Adventure that costs around Rs. 19 lakh. I’ve driven it multiple times and really like the way it feels. It feels more rugged and planted than the Seltos, with better suspension and less body movement at highway speeds. I can physically feel the difference in the heavier boot/doors and overall solidity. I know both cars are 5-star rated, so I’m not equating weight or feel with crash safety. The Duster has a wet-clutch DCT, unlike the Seltos dry clutch, which is another reason I’m considering it. The compromise is features and rear space as the Seltos has noticeably better knee/legroom. However, the Duster is still perfectly comfortable for my family’s height, so I can live with that. I have also shortlisted Kia Seltos 1.5 NA CVT/IVT that is priced around Rs. 19.65 lakh. I would select it for its simplicity. I know I’ll compromise significantly on torque as compared to the turbo and diesel, especially coming from a diesel Ritz, but a 4-cylinder NA petrol is a relatively straightforward option and potentially fewer powertrain-related headaches will be there compared to DPF and modern turbo/GDI systems. If I go this route, I may also wait for the Elevate facelift. Although the current Elevate’s poor thigh support is a major concern for me. My wife strongly prefers the Seltos, so realistically, my biggest dilemma is Seltos Turbo DCT vs Diesel AT. Duster is the wildcard because I personally like its ruggedness and driving character, while NA petrol is the fallback for its simplicity. I am looking for genuine 5-year ownership experience, highway performance, reliability, DCT/DPF experience, mileage and maintenance opinions rather than just brochure figures.

•3h

Given your usage pattern of 750–1,000 km a month with 75-80% highway driving and a long-term ownership mindset, we would pick between two. The Kia Seltos 1.5 diesel automatic would be a sensible choice as the diesel’s strong mid-range torque and better fuel efficiency on highways make it a natural upgrade from your Ritz diesel, and your running is sufficient to justify the diesel premium. The DPF concern is largely a non-issue in your case because your usage is predominantly highway, which is exactly the kind of driving that keeps the DPF healthy.The Duster would be the more fun option, and yes the wet-clutch DCT would be better in start stop conditions, but in your case this would be even lesser of a factor as your driving is mostly on the highway and since you said the space is ok for you and your family you could consider this one too. Overall for you the Seltos diesel automatic is more the head buy while the Renault Duster would appeal to the heart. It all comes down to which you want to lean towards.

Kia Seltos

Renault Duster

•2d

I currently own a previous-generation 2026 Pulsar 150 Twin Disc. The new model comes with updated switchgear that includes a hazard light switch. Is it possible to install the new switchgear with the hazard switch on my bike? What could potentially go wrong with such an upgrade? For context, my bike is only two months old and has covered around 1,000km.

•4h

You cannot change the switchgear on an old-gen Bajaj Pulsar 150 to the latest 2026 version because the bikes use different displays, wiring harnesses, and the switches themselves are different too. We'd recommend not tampering with an electrical component on a brand new bike because if something goes wrong, it could cause a cascading effect on other functions of the bike too. Your nearest authorised Bajaj service centre should be able to guide you on how to proceed if you must have this feature on your bike.

Bajaj Pulsar 150

•4h

I was comparing Kushaq 1.5 with a more feature-loaded compact SUV. Feels like some buyers focus too much on screens and sunroofs.

•1d

I am looking to upgrade to a petrol automatic car in Pune. My current car is a Ford Figo, and the new car will primarily be driven by four adults for city use, with occasional outstation trips. The overall running will be moderate rather than very high, so reliability is an important consideration. I have shortlisted the Maruti Suzuki Fronx 1.0 Turbo AT in the Alpha or Zeta variant, the Maruti Suzuki Brezza ZXI AT, and the Skoda Kylaq AT in the Signature Plus or Sportline variants. Please suggest the most suitable model and variant based on these requirements, and also recommend any other options from different brands within a budget of around Rs 15 lakh on-road in Pune.

•4h

Go for the Maruti Brezza ZXI AT. It is the most reliable and hassle-free upgrade from your Ford Figo, especially given your usage pattern of city driving with four adults and occasional outstation trips. The Brezza’s naturally aspirated petrol engine paired with a torque converter automatic is smooth, predictable and well-suited to city conditions, while also being robust and easy to live with over the long term. It is also a comfortable five-seater with good ride quality and Maruti’s extensive service network, which adds to peace of mind ownership.The Fronx 1.0 turbo AT is a good car, but the turbo petrol engine paired with an automatic is not as proven or as effortless in the long run as the Brezza’s setup, especially for a buyer prioritising reliability. The Skoda Kylaq is the better driver’s car and offers a more engaging experience, but in low speed traffic feels eager and can be jerky, so you need a lighter foot.If you are open to a slightly different approach, the Honda Elevate CVT is also worth considering. It is a simple, reliable and comfortable SUV with Honda’s reputation for longevity, and the CVT is very smooth in city traffic. Overall, the Brezza ZXI AT remains the most sensible and dependable choice for your requirements.

I want to buy a new petrol car from Maruti Suzuki and am considering the Vitara, Victoris, or any other suitable option from the brand. Which car would be the best choice for me? I currently own a 2011 Maruti Suzuki Swift. My daily running is around 15km, and I am a PSU employee who will be retiring in January. I would appreciate your feedback.

•5h

With your daily running of around 15km and retirement approaching, the focus should be on a comfortable, reliable and easy-to-own car so your shortlist makes sense. The Maruti Suzuki Victoris petrol is a good option, unless rear seat headroom and space are very important, in which case the Grand Vitara would be better.Mechanically, both the Vitara and Victoris are similar underneath, but the Victoris gets a slightly more premium interior and a better feature set at a similar price. Since your running isn't very high, you do not need to go for the hybrid; the regular naturally aspirated petrol engine would do fine, and it's smooth, refined and well-suited to your usage. If you want something smaller and easier to drive in the city, the Brezza is also worth considering, but the Victoris offers a more premium experience and better long-distance comfort.

Maruti Suzuki Victoris

Maruti Suzuki Brezza

Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara

•5h

Looking at a Innova Crysta that's crossed 1 lakh km but has a decent service record. Would you consider something like this or not?

•10h

Hello, I’m looking to buy a good car in India. We previously had an Alto, and this will be our first new car. I’ve taken test drives of the Creta and Seltos. The Creta looks good overall, while the Seltos feels newer and more premium, although my family didn’t really like its door handles. This will primarily be a family car, with our usage being around 80 percent on highways and 20 percent in the city. I’m considering either of these two, but I’m also open to other options under a budget of Rs 20 lakh. Any suggestions or recommendations would be helpful. Thanks!

•5h

If the Kia Seltos pop-out door handles are a deal breaker then of course stay away from it. However, if you think you can live with it, then the Seltos is a good option. The Seltos has moved to a new platform and is thus newer and has all the latest electronic and electrical features, some of which can be upgraded in time.The Hyundai Creta too would be moving to this new generation in about 5 to 6 months' time. Thus, the Seltos would be the better choice here also, given that as far as powertrains go they both offer the very same units. If you are open to alternatives, the Skoda Kushaq 1.5 TSI is a good alternative, especially for highway driving, as it has a strong and peppy engine and good highway stability as well as handling around corners.

Hi, I’m looking for an electric car priced around Rs 10–12 lakh. Which would be the best option in terms of service support and charging convenience?

•6h

Go for the Tata Tiago EV. It is the most sensible electric car under Rs 10-12 lakh, and Tata Motors has the widest EV service network in this price range. The Tiago EV is a well-proven product with a decent real-world range for city use, and Tata’s charging network is one of the most extensive among mainstream manufacturers. If you want something slightly larger, the Tata Punch EV is also worth considering, but it will stretch your budget a bit. Overall, the Tiago EV strikes the best balance for your requirements.

Tata Tiago EV

Tata Punch EV

•6h

Bought the Sonet in a mid variant instead of stretching for the top one. After six months, there are only two features from the higher variant that I actually miss.

•1d

I’m stuck between the CB350RS and Scram 440 and would love to hear from people who have ridden either or both. I’m primarily looking for a daily city bike, with occasional long rides and weekend tours. I commute around 26km every day through peak Bangalore traffic, and the roads aren’t exactly great either, with plenty of potholes, broken stretches and stop-and-go traffic. I had initially shortlisted the CB350RS because I really liked its character, relaxed nature, thump, refinement and mileage. It feels like a bike I’d genuinely enjoy riding every day. However, I felt it was slightly lacking when I needed to make quick overtakes or manoeuvre through gaps in traffic. It isn’t necessarily slow, but it doesn’t feel particularly eager when you need that extra shove. Then I rode the Scram 440, and that’s where the dilemma started. I absolutely loved its character and the way it delivers power. It felt much easier to make quick overtakes and manoeuvre through traffic. The seating position and suspension also felt significantly better suited to Bangalore’s terrible roads. On the other hand, I’m still drawn to the CB350RS because I really like its overall feel and calmer, more relaxed character. So, which one would you pick for this kind of usage? I’d especially appreciate feedback from anyone who has owned or ridden both.

•6h

From what you've told us, it seems like you're leaning more towards the Royal Enfield Scram 440, so we'd suggest you go with that bike. The Scram can be a relaxed and mellow machine when you want to just cruise, but if you need the added power to make an overtake, it fares better than the Honda CB350RS. An added bonus is that the Scram is more comfortable over bad roads because of its ADV lineage.

Royal Enfield Scram 440

Honda Bikes CB350RS

•1d

Hi guys, I’m looking for a four-car garage that can fulfil some specific roles. I need an EV for city use in Bangalore, and I’m considering either the Tata Tiago EV or Punch EV. I also need a high-mileage family hauler, for which I’m thinking of the Toyota Innova Hycross VX(O). For a fun car for myself, I’m considering the Volkswagen Virtus GT. Finally, I want another SUV that doesn’t need to be as large as the Hycross, so I’m considering the Mahindra XUV 7XO, Kia Seltos or Mahindra BE 6. I’ll be travelling frequently between Bangalore, Hyderabad and Coimbatore, and I’m also planning a road trip across India. My overall budget for the four cars is around Rs 1-1.5 crore. I’m open to suggestions, so I’d really appreciate any recommendations. Thanks in advance!

•7h

Purely as a city runabout, get the smaller battery version of the Tata Tiago EV. It is compact, easy to drive, and is very capable commuter. Sure, the Punch EV, with its larger battery is would be our recommendation had it been your only car, but since your usage is specific, the Tiago EV makes more sense.As a high-mileage family hauler, the Toyota Innova Hycross VX (O) is a sensible choice. It is spacious, comfortable and reliable, and the hybrid powertrain will help keep running costs in check on your frequent long-distance trips between Bangalore, Hyderabad and Coimbatore. That said, if you don't plan to use the third row for adults as much, you could also consider the new Kia Sorento - diesel or hybrid, take your pick. It is a far more sophisticated, value-for-money option.The Volkswagen Virtus GT is a solid choice. It offers strong performance, a well-balanced chassis and a genuinely enjoyable driving experience. But we'd suggest you either wait till the end of the year for the facelift, or pick the updated Skoda Slavia 1.5 TSI instead, both of which will have minor cosmetic tweaks along with an upgraded air-con for better cabin cooling.The Mahindra XUV 7XO is quite a large car, which defeats its purpose since you'll already have the Hycross or Sorento. Instead opt for the Kia Seltos which is a relatively more compact alternative, with a premium interior, lengthy features list, and a refined character. Alternatively, you could consider a Toyota Hyryder hybrid too, which is even more compact, drives well, and is extremely fuel efficient.

Tata Tiago EV

Tata Punch EV

Toyota Innova HyCross

Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder

Added a better speaker setup to my Fronx instead of going for a full-blown audio build. Much better sound now.