I am planning to buy a new SUV. Should I choose the BMW X3, Audi Q5, or the Mercedes-Benz GLC? I am only considering petrol options.

autocar.india

•4h

The Maruti Suzuki E Vitara only makes sense if you have a dependable home charger. Daily 100 km is easy for an EV, and running costs will be significantly lower than those of ICE vehicles.But we'd suggest you pick the Grand Vitara Zeta+ strong hybrid. With 100 km a day on highway and rural roads, it will cut fuel bills the most without charging worries, and the SUV's height and suspension handle broken patches well. Performance is quite zippy thanks to the electric motor's instant torque, and you will still see 20-plus kpl if you drive at steady speeds.The Dzire ZXi+ AMT is significantly cheaper to buy and quite efficient. Performance on the highway will seem quite dull, especially since you're coming from an Ecosport diesel.

Maruti Suzuki e Vitara

Maruti Suzuki Dzire

Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara

autocar.india

•23h

Pick the XUV 7XO diesel automatic for the better ride-handling balance. Over broken roads and big speed breakers, it stays calmer, and with five on board, it keeps its composure without that side-to-side bob you often feel in heavier SUVs. At highway speeds, it tracks straight, the steering has a natural weight, and body control feels more reassuring when you need to change lanes or brake hard.The XEV 9e does feel flatter through bends thanks to the battery’s low position, so quick direction changes are tidy, but its extra weight makes sharp edges and patchy city tarmac come through more firmly, and the braking feel is less consistent. On a long drive with family and bags, the Mahindra diesel’s suspension tuning feels more relaxed and confident.One caveat. In city traffic, the XEV 9e is quieter and smoother, so if most of your 10-15k km each year are short urban runs, you might enjoy that. But for mixed use as a five-seater, the XUV 7XO rides better and feels more secure.

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Mahindra XEV 9e

autocar.india

•23h

The Honda Elevate's engine is stronger, and the dynamics are slightly better. If you enjoy driving, go for the Honda. But do keep in mind that fuel efficiency won't be as strong as the Maruti, the CNG kit is fitted at the dealer level, unlike Maruti's factory-fitted unit, and boot space (like in the Grand Vitara CNG) will be compromised.If you want an efficient CNG powertrain without sacrificing boot space, then we'd recommend you opt for the Victoris CNG instead. Thanks to its tank placement beneath the boot floor, you don't sacrifice practicality, and you also get the peace of mind of a factory-fitted CNG kit.

Honda Elevate