As a diesel enthusiast, I am now considering switching to an electric vehicle. My budget is around ₹30 lakh. I am currently confused between the BYD Atto 3 and Mahindra Electric offerings. I have also looked at Tata Motors EVs, but I have come across feedback suggesting a noticeable difference between claimed and real-world range.

Autocar India

•1d

Pick the Mahindra XEV 9e unless you truly need the extra size of the 9S. It's slightly easier to drive day to day and should deliver slightly better range on a full charge. The 9S makes sense only if you carry family and luggage often and need the third row. One thing to keep in mind, early Mahindra electric cars have been reported to have software niggles, though these should have been ironed out by now, and make sure your home charging setup is sorted and check local fast-charger reliability before you commit.If you want the best all-rounder at an even more affordable price, the Hyundai Creta Electric is an easy pick. It may not look or feel particularly special, but for the job of being an EV, it is hard to fault at this price. Though it has a smaller battery than the Mahindra's, it is more efficient, and therefore its real-world range is actually higher. Its powertrain is smooth and refined, it's loaded with features, the controls and ergonomics are incredibly friendly, and its smaller size offers a great mix of space and driving convenience.

Mahindra XEV 9e

Mahindra XEV 9S

Hyundai Creta Electric

Autocar India

•2d

Consider the Hyundai Creta Electric 51.4kWh. Your 35 km daily city run is a breeze - one home charge can cover most of your week - and it has enough real highway range to handle your 500 km a month with one quick DC stop on longer trips.Coming from a City ZX, you will like the smooth, quiet drive and strong low-speed pull in traffic. Cabin space is good, features are plenty, and the Hyundai service network si wide spread.If you want a second option in the same price band, the Mahindra XEV 9e is a good choice, though your budget will only get you the smaller 59kWh battery pack.Overall, the Creta Electric is the sensible option for your budget and a good upgrade over your City.

Hyundai Creta Electric

Honda City

Mahindra XEV 9e

Autocar India

•15h

The Maruti Suzuki Brezza ZXi AT would be the recommendation here, but with one important caveat.The Brezza's naturally aspirated petrol engine and torque-converter automatic make it one of the smoothest and most easy-going compact SUVs for city driving. It is also likely to be noticeably more fuel efficient than the Mahindra XUV 3XO RevX A in real-world conditions. Add Maruti's strong reliability record and lower ownership costs makes it a very compelling package.The 3XO RevX A, however, is the more exciting car to drive. Its turbo-petrol engine delivers stronger performance, and the overall driving experience feels more energetic and engaging. It also has the edge when it comes to cabin ambience, features and perceived premium feel, with highlights such as the panoramic sunroof and a more upmarket interior.The only thing to keep in mind is that the Brezza is expected to receive a facelift later this year. If you're leaning towards the Maruti and your purchase is not urgent, it may be worth waiting to see what updates the refreshed model brings.

Maruti Suzuki Brezza

Mahindra XUV 3XO