I currently own an X5 (2022), an E-Class (2014), and an i20 (2021). I need to replace the i20 because the E-Class is too old for highway driving and the i20 isn’t comfortable for my family. My running is around 1,500 km per month. I’m considering the Skoda Kodiaq and the BYD Sealion 7, but I’m open to any better options in this price range that are not sedans (can be SUV, MPV, etc.). I can even wait 6-8 months if something interesting is on the way. Please suggest.

Autocar India

•44m

City and highway use with low running costs within a Rs 15 lakh cap points us to the Hyundai Venue diesel HX5 automatic. Coming from your 2016 Brezza diesel, you will like the strong pull from low speeds, and the automatic will make life a lot easier in traffic. The steering is light, the seat is high, and the view out is clear, which helps on busy roads. Hyundai’s service reach is on par with what you are used to with Maruti, so ownership should be simple.One thing to keep in mind is that the back seat is fine for two adults, but fitting three across is tight. If you need more space, consider the Kia Syros diesel HTK+, which is easily the roomiest among the compact SUVs.Overall, for your mix of city and highway use and a focus on fuel efficiency, the Venue diesel fits your brief best. Also, with new diesels, try to do a good highway run every few weeks to help keep the exhaust filter clear.

Hyundai Venue

Kia Syros

Autocar India

•3h

After almost a decade with your Hexa, a good idea is to replace it with a tough and powerful diesel SUV, and we'd recommend the Tata Harrier Adventure X Diesel AT. It gives you the relaxed, solid, long‑distance feel that you liked in your Hexa, but in a newer and easier‑to‑drive package.It works for you because the diesel has strong pull at low and mid speeds, so overtakes on two‑lane roads need less effort. The 6-speed automatic is the torque-converter type that uses a fluid coupling, which is known for smoothness and long life, and it does not get hot and fussy in traffic. Safety is strong too, with a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating and must‑have features like 6 airbags and stability control. Ride comfort is good, and though not quite as tough-feeling as your ladder-frame Hexa, this Tata car feels softer and more comfortable overall.If you want the option of a third row of seats, there's also the Tata Safari at a slightly higher price point, which has all the same strengths of the Harrier. There's also the XUV 7XO, which is a better all-rounder and more fun to drive, but it doesn't feel quite as solid and commanding from behind the wheel as the Harrier or Safari.

Tata Harrier

Tata Safari

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Autocar India

•1h

For mostly city use in Bangalore, 500 km a month, and as a new driver who wants safety, comfort and an easy automatic, the Skoda Kylaq 1.0 TSI automatic in the Prestige trim is a good fit. It scores a 5-star safety rating, the body feels solid, and it comes with multiple safety aids, which give peace of mind. The 1.0 turbo-petrol with the 6-speed automatic is smooth at low speeds and takes the stress out of stop-and-go driving. Ride comfort is good for our roads, and the driving position is upright with good visibility, which helps when you are still building confidence.A couple of things to note for your use. The rear seat is fine for two adults, but three across will feel tight, and the boot is okay, not the biggest. Overall, yes, for your priorities, the Kylaq 1.0 automatic suits the brief well.

Skoda Kylaq