I am planning to buy a new car with a budget of around Rs. 12 lakh. I am confused between the Tata Punch EV (40 kWh), Kia Sonet, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Skoda Kylaq, and Mahindra XUV 3XO. Could you please suggest the best option for my daily usage? At present, I own a Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, and my monthly running is approximately 3,100 km. My primary concern is reducing my monthly running costs. Considering my usage pattern and priorities, which car would you recommend?

Autocar India

•2d

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

Autocar India

•2d

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

Autocar India

•16h

Of your shortlisted cars, go for the Skoda Kylaq automatic. For mostly city use and just 150km a week, its punchy turbo petrol engine with a smooth torque converter is a great mix of fun and ease of use. Its light yet sharp steering, upright seating and compact size feel like a natural step up from a Nano, and the interior feels fresh and upmarket too.The Kia Sonet diesel automatic is quick and efficient, but a diesel engine is overkill for your daughter's limited usage. Not only is it pound-for-pound more expensive than an equivalent petrol to buy, but it also requires extra care, such as regenerating the DPF (diesel particulate filter) every so often via a high-speed run, as well as top-ups of the ad-blue tank. The Brezza is a good option thanks to its simple, naturally aspirated engine, which should deliver better fuel economy than the Kylaq. But in its current form, it's just a bit uninteresting and unenthusiastic an offering, and it's best to wait for the facelift, which is right around the corner, before making that decision.For 150 km a week, an electric car is actually ideal if you have a private parking spot with a 15A socket or a home charger. The powertrains these days are much smoother, batteries carry long warranties, and city running is silent and cheap. Upfront cost, charging access and resale value are the only real hurdles, so if you are interested, a compact EV like the Tata Punch EV is a great option.

Skoda Kylaq

Kia Sonet

Maruti Suzuki Brezza

Tata Punch EV