I'm planning to buy a new car in the approximate 18 lakh range. I'm confused between the Creta SX Premium Summer Edition and the Seltos HTX(A) variant. While the Seltos has more features, its petrol NA engine felt underpowered, and the turbo version is above 20 lakh. I generally drive in the city and on highways, but I also visit hilly areas often. Can you suggest any other options in this range?

autocar.india

•1d

With a yearly running of just 6,000km, petrol is the sensible choice, and the Hyundai Alcazar is a good option. It is a comfortable, easy-to-drive family SUV with a hassle-free ownership experience, and the 1.5 turbo petrol engine paired with the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic is powerful enough and relatively efficient too. Plus, since you're coming from a Creta, you'll be familiar with the Hyundai network and could even ask for a loyalty discount. However, the Alcazar’s third row is not as spacious as some larger cars in the segment, so if you genuinely need a proper 7-seater, it may not be the ideal solution. What's more, if your Creta is the 2020 or newer model, you'll find the Alcazar perhaps a little too familiar on the inside.The Mahindra XUV 7XO, Tata Safari and MG Hector Plus are good options that offer more space. However, as you have noted, they're not fuel efficient at all, and moreover, in your budget, you will only get a low to mid-spec variant, whereas you will get a fully-loaded Alcazar. Another option to consider, though not an SUV, is the Kia Carens Clavis. Its MPV shape is more space-efficient, and you actually get more passenger and luggage room than the Alcazar, with the same efficient engines, for around the same price.

Hyundai Alcazar

Hyundai Creta

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Tata Safari

MG Windsor

autocar.india

•1d

The Tata Sierra 1.5 NA is quite a heavy car and, despite being tuned for efficiency, that weight does affect fuel consumption. In real-world conditions, you can expect Sierra mileage to fall between 7 and 9 kpl in the city and about 12 and 14 kpl on the highway, depending on how and where you drive.The bigger issue is performance. The 1.5 NA engine feels very sluggish, and you will need to work the engine and gearbox hard, especially when overtaking or when you need a quick burst of speed in traffic.Where this Tata car scores strongly is in road presence, safety, and overall family appeal. It feels solid, has a commanding stance, and is well suited for comfortable, relaxed driving.The Kia Seltos HTK, on the other hand, is the easier car to live with day to day. Its 1.5 NA engine feels noticeably far more responsive and lighter on its feet, and it is also more fuel-efficient in real-world use.So, if your priority is a safe, solid family car with strong road presence and you’re okay with the poor performance and lower mileage, the Sierra works. But if you want better drivability, efficiency, and a more effortless experience behind the wheel, the Seltos is the more rounded choice.

Tata Sierra

Kia Seltos

autocar.india

•1d

The Hyundai Verna HX6 IVT is better equipped, and it has a larger boot than the Seltos. If you do a lot of airport runs, this is the better option. And being a sedan, it will feel nicer to drive than the Kia car, and it is likely to be more efficient too.Pick the Kia Seltos HTK IVT for its elevated driving position, more modern interior, and high ground clearance. Also, the Seltos will be easier for the elderly to get in and out. Overall, it will feel a bit nicer and comfier; hence, it is the one we'd recommend.

Hyundai Verna

Kia Seltos