I am planning to upgrade from my Maruti Suzuki Dzire and am looking for a car with excellent rear-seat comfort, good fuel efficiency, an enjoyable driving experience, and overall value for money. My budget is Rs. 15 - 21 lakh, and I am open to any body style. Which car would you recommend based on these requirements?

autocar.india

•1d

You have done 1.8 lakh km in your Ertiga diesel and still enjoy the car, which tells us two things: you do high mileage and you value comfort, ease of driving and diesel torque. The Ertiga diesel was a genuinely good package, and the fact that you are happy with it after 10 years is a strong endorsement of Maruti’s ownership experience.The challenge is that Maruti no longer offers a diesel MPV, so the direct replacement does not exist. The closest modern equivalent is the Toyota Innova Crysta diesel. It is the most reliable, comfortable and long-lasting diesel MPV on the market, and it will give you the same sense of durability and ease of ownership that you have enjoyed with the Ertiga. The downside is that it is significantly more expensive than the Ertiga was, and it is a much larger and heavier car.If you want something closer in size and price to the Ertiga, the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga petrol with CNG is worth considering. It will not give you the same diesel torque, but it is the most cost-effective way to run high mileage today. The CNG system is factory-fitted and well-integrated, and Maruti’s service network remains a big advantage.If you are open to moving away from Maruti, the Kia Carens Clavis diesel is the closest modern equivalent to your Ertiga diesel. It is comfortable, easy to drive and has a strong diesel engine, but it does not have the same long-term ownership reputation as Toyota or Maruti.Given your usage and satisfaction with the Ertiga, the Toyota Innova Crysta diesel is the most logical upgrade. If the price is too high, the Ertiga CNG is the most sensible alternative.

Maruti Suzuki Ertiga

Toyota Innova Crysta

Kia Carens Clavis

autocar.india

•1d

While both the Alcazar and Carens Clavis share the same 160hp 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine and 7-speed dual-clutch automatic, the Kia car is simply the better family car. Its MPV design translates into easier access to the third row, more usable space for six adults and a more comfortable third row, making it the more practical choice if you'll regularly use all six seats.The Alcazar fights back with its SUV styling, slightly more premium ambience and higher ground clearance. If those are priorities and the third row will only be used occasionally, it's a compelling option. However, if your focus is on carrying the family in comfort, the Clavis has the edge thanks to its roomier cabin and more practical layout.Both offer a similar ownership experience, safety kit and powertrain, so the decision really comes down to practicality versus image

Hyundai Alcazar

Kia Carens Clavis

autocar.india

•2d

With an annual running of just 5,000km and mostly city use, a petrol engine is the right choice. Since you want an SUV, the Hyundai Alcazar fits your requirements best. It offers captain seats in the second row, a comfortable ride and a practical, spacious cabin. The third row is foldable, giving you a large, usable boot when not in use. The Alcazar petrol automatic is also easy to drive in the city, has good visibility and is well equipped for the price. The petrol engine is smooth and reliable, and running costs will be reasonable given your low mileage. Overall, it is the most practical and value-for-money option for your needs. Alternatively, you can consider the Kia Carens Clavis, which is an MPV that's mechanically identical to the Alcazar but has a more usable third row.

Hyundai Alcazar

Kia Carens Clavis