I am planning to buy a new petrol automatic car with a budget of around Rs. 14 lakh, and my driving will be predominantly in the city. I have shortlisted the Maruti Suzuki Brezza ZXi AT and the Mahindra XUV 3XO RevX A. The XUV 3XO RevX A appeals to me because of its premium interior, features, and panoramic sunroof, while the Brezza stands out for its refinement and long-term reliability. Considering my usage and priorities, which one would you recommend?

Autocar India

•5h

While both SUVs are strong contenders, the Maruti Suzuki Brezza offers a more polished and well-rounded ownership experience. The CNG integration feels very well sorted, fuel efficiency is excellent, and Maruti's service network and long-term reliability are major advantages. It is also one of the few CNG SUVs that does not feel significantly compromised in everyday driving.The Tata Nexon iCNG counters with a stronger safety package, a more modern cabin and a larger feature list. It also benefits from Tata's twin-cylinder CNG setup, which preserves a usable boot. The Brezza CNG, meanwhile, is available only with a manual gearbox.

Maruti Suzuki Brezza

Tata Nexon

Autocar India

•1d

It's a safe bet to buy the Maruti Suzuki Brezza now, but do note that your budget will restrict you to the lower LXi or VXi variants. Coming from a Wagon R, you’ll like the upright seating, great visibility and light controls, and the simple 1.5 petrol feels easy in traffic with the same fuss-free ownership Maruti is known for. The Brezza also rides more comfortably than a hatch and has usable rear space and boot for family runs. A facelift is unlikely to change the basics - especially in the lower variants - and will most likely see a bump in prices.Keep in mind, though, the LXi is quite basic, and the VXi only adds a few more features. Also, the engine, while powerful enough, isn't very exciting or strong out on fast highways.If features matter more than badge, look at the Nissan Magnite or Renault Kiger mid-trims, which land under Rs 11 lakh on-road and offer better equipment, representing stronger value for money. However, they feel a size smaller, and their dealer network is smaller than Maruti’s.

Maruti Suzuki Brezza

Nissan Magnite

Renault Kiger

Autocar India

•2h

Pick the Mahindra XUV 3XO MX2 Pro automatic. It stays within your Rs. 12 lakh on-road cap and will feel easiest for a new, nervous driver thanks to its smooth automatic, light controls and good visibility. It is also one of the safer small SUVs, and importantly for you, the back seat is wide enough for three people. The downside is that the 3XO is not very fuel-efficient as it's tuned for a peppy drive.The Skoda Kylaq Classic Plus automatic will also be within your budget and meet most of your needs, but for three adults at the rear, it would not be as spacious as the Mahindra. One small tip for confidence: pick a variant with a rear camera and drive a bit more with a learning school till you are competent enough to ensure your safety and that of others on the road too. Happy Motoring!

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Skoda Kylaq