Autocar India
16w

My budget is around Rs. 12 lakh for a manual car. I am getting the Honda Elevate V for Rs. 11.9 lakh and the Kia Seltos base variant for Rs. 12.5 lakh. Which one should I consider? Alternatively, should I go for the Nexon CNG, considering it offers the flexibility of running on CNG as well? My monthly running is around 500-700 km, mostly in the city with occasional highway trips. Currently, I own a Honda City 5th Gen. Also, is buying a petrol vehicle a good decision right now, considering the concerns around increasing ethanol blending in fuel?

Verified
16w

At 500-700km monthly, your usage isn't much to start with, hence opting for a CNG vehicle won't lead to significant financial benefit. Still, the Tata Nexon iCNG will have the lowest running costs, and if you don't mind a smaller car, that belongs to a segment lower compared to the Honda Elevate and Kia Seltos, go for it.

The Elevate will seem very familiar, as it has the same powertrain as your City, and what works in its favour are its comfy seats and excellent ride quality. Do note, the Elevate won't be as efficient as your City on account of its shorter gearing and heavier kerb weight.

The Kia Seltos is the most expensive here, but it also feels the most modern and refined. If you can stretch your budget, this is the one we'd recommend.

Tata Nexon

Tata Nexon

16w

Hi Autocar

16w

Since you're opting for the manual, I assume you enjoy driving. Wait for the new Brezza before making the final decision. It might get the 1 litre Boosterjet with a six speed manual and that'll be a fun combination to drive.

More posts on similar cars

5h

I currently drive a 2022 Tata Nexon petrol manual and am based in Delhi NCR. My daily running is around 85 km, and I spend about an hour each day in bumper-to-bumper traffic. This makes driving difficult and tiring, so I am considering exchanging my car for an automatic. My budget, after factoring in the Nexon’s resale value, is around Rs. 12-14 lakh. I need an automatic that is reliable, fuel-efficient, and maintenance-friendly. I am currently considering the Punch EV, Nexon DCA, Brezza AT, and Elevate V CVT, as discounts make the Elevate fit within my budget. I mainly use the car for my office commute of around 85 km daily, with occasional weekend trips of 500-600 km. I have a family of four, and this will be my only car. My office has free EV charging infrastructure, which makes me consider the Punch EV. However, I am concerned about its range on longer weekend trips, so I am also looking at petrol alternatives.

Verified
1h

Go for the Honda Elevate V CVT. With your 85km daily commute in Delhi NCR traffic, the CVT automatic will make a huge difference to your fatigue levels, and Honda’s reputation for reliability and low maintenance costs makes it a sensible long-term choice. The Elevate is also a genuinely comfortable family car for four, with a spacious cabin and a relaxed driving experience on both city commutes and weekend highway runs.The Punch EV is tempting given your office charging, but with regular 500- 600 km weekend trips, range planning and charging stops will add unnecessary anxiety. The Nexon DCA is a good upgrade from your current car, but the DCA gearbox is not as smooth or as proven as Honda’s CVT in heavy traffic. The Brezza AT is a solid, reliable option, but the Elevate feels like the more complete family car with better space and a larger boot.The Elevate V CVT is the car you will be happiest with after five years of ownership. It is reliable, easy to live with and well suited to your daily routine and family needs.

VehicleHonda Elevate
VehicleTata Punch EV
VehicleTata Nexon
VehicleMaruti Suzuki Brezza

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