Autocar India
•13w

Hi everyone! I have a strict budget of Rs. 9 lakh and I'm looking for an automatic car with good safety. So far, I've shortlisted the Hyundai Exter, Tata Punch, Renault Kiger, and Nissan Magnite. Which one would you recommend and why? I'd really appreciate your suggestions, especially if you own or have driven any of these cars. Thanks!

Verified
•12w

The Hyundai Exter AMT would be the best choice for your requirements. It is the most refined car here, has a smooth four cylinder petrol engine, is easy to drive in city traffic and comes with a comfortable ride. Hyundai's extensive service network and hassle free ownership experience are added advantages, especially if this is going to be your long term family car.

The Tata Punch AMT is the next best option if safety is your absolute top priority. It feels more robust, has higher ground clearance and is better suited to rough roads, although the AMT isn't as smooth as the Exter's and Tata's service experience can vary from city to city.

Hyundai Exter

Hyundai Exter

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•5d

I’m planning to buy a new car, and my annual running is around 40,000km, primarily involving highway drives and ghat sections. I have shortlisted the Kia Seltos Diesel HTX and the upcoming facelifted Toyota Innova Hycross ZX. I’m considering two approaches: either buy the Innova Hycross and keep it for the next 10 years, given its reputation for longevity and the expectation that its engine can last at least 4 lakh kilometres, or buy the Seltos, drive it for around 2 lakh kilometres over 4–5 years, sell it and upgrade to a brand-new Seltos or another car of a similar price and size. On paper, the Innova Hycross Hybrid seems like the better choice, considering its long-term reliability and features such as the Ottoman reclining seats. However, I’m concerned that I might get bored of it after four years or that it may start feeling outdated as newer technologies and features enter the market. This makes the second option appealing, as it would allow me to upgrade to a brand-new car every 4–5 years. Which approach would make more sense in the long run, considering my high annual running and ownership costs?

Verified
•5d

It seems like you're leaning towards the Kia Seltos Diesel HTX, and we think it is a good choice. The diesel engine feels adequately powered for highway usage and ghat driving, and it is likely to return respectable efficiency too. Moreover, despite being modern with all the latest tech and features, the Seltos will be substantially more affordable than the Toyota Innova Hycross hybrid. So unless you need the Innova's extra space, or you frequently travel with six or seven passengers, the Kia Seltos diesel is your best bet.

VehicleKia Seltos
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Posted on: 6 Aug 2026