Autocar India
•12w

Hi, I have been using a VW Polo TDI for the last 10 years, and it has done 1,20,000 km. I am planning to exchange it for an EV and would like to know which would be a good car for my budget of Rs. 20-25 lakh. I am looking for something that offers good value for money, reliability, and hassle-free ownership. I like the VinFast VF7, BYD Atto 3, and Mahindra XEV 9S. I have shortlisted the XEV 9S because, within my budget, it seems to offer good value for money, with a 79kWh battery and 7-seat capacity. I have not considered the Tata Sierra or Tata Safari. I also feel the Creta Electric and MG Windsor have a lower range, so I have not considered them. Considering everything, including after-sales service and long-term ownership, which would be the best overall car for my budget? This is a significant investment for my family, and I plan to keep the car for at least 10 years.

Verified
•12w

The BYD Atto 3 is a well-built and reliable EV with a proven track record, but it is a 5-seater and does not offer the same level of practicality, feature set or even the performance as the XEV 9S. The VinFast VF7 is an interesting option, but you can only get the entry-level variant in your budget, and while it has strong performance, as a package, it still trails behind the XEV 9S. 

Since you want a 7-seater, the Tata Sierra EV is ruled out considering its 5-seater layout. 

The Mahindra XEV 9S is the best choice in your budget and given your requirements. It offers a large battery, good range and a practical 7-seat layout, making it a sensible family EV. However, it is worth noting that the third row is best suited for children or occasional use, and the boot space is limited with all seats up. Within Rs 25 lakh, you can get the Pack One Above variant with the bigger 79kWh battery pack and a decent feature set. 

Given your priorities of value for money, reliability and hassle-free ownership, the Mahindra XEV 9S is the best fit if you need a 7-seater. 

BYD Atto 3

BYD Atto 3

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•3h

Hello, I am 51 years old. My wife, two teenagers, and my mother are a part of my family. Till now, I have only bought functional and not so expensive cars. I am at a stage where I can splurge on something more comfortable that comes with premium features. I can go upto 35 Lakhs and would be fine with a 5-seater or a 6-seater with captain seats. I mostly drive within the Mumbai city which includes long drive once in a month. I was thinking of a petrol or hybrid automatic car as it will deliver decent mileage while being environment friendly. I have shortlisted Kia Sorento Hybrid, Innova Hycross, Hyundai Alcazar, Kia Carens Clavis Turbo Petrol, MG Hector Tomohawk PHEV and Mahindra XUV 7XO Diesel. All cars are automatic. For me, driving as well as back seat comfort are important. The car should have a good music system, features and should be comfortable to drive. I am not considering an EV because I do not have a home charger. What do you recommend?

Verified
•2h

The Kia Sorento best fits your requirements. It falls within your budget of Rs. 35 lakhs, comes with 6 or 7-seater options and has a premium, feature-packed cabin. The Sorento also has a comfortable ride quality and a smooth and responsive strong hybrid powertrain, featuring a 1.6-litre turbo petrol engine, an electric motor and a DCT gearbox. Since your running is mostly within the city with occasional long drives, the strong hybrid makes sense for you and gives you the benefit of greater fuel efficiency and lower emissions. While the middle row is spacious and comfy, the third row is best for children, so that's worth keeping in mind. Also, with your budget you might be restricted to the entry-level HTE variant and will miss out on certain feel-good features like a branded Bose audio system, ventilated seats, ambient lighting and more. But overall, it is the one that we would recommend for you.

VehicleKia Sorento

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Posted on: 14 Aug 2026