I am confused between the Honda Elevate and the Tata Harrier Diesel base variant. My usage is around 60% city driving and 40% highway driving. At the same time, I also want a car that is enjoyable to drive and feels engaging behind the wheel. Could you please advise which one would be the better option considering driving experience, comfort, maintenance costs, long-term ownership, and overall value for money? Also, would it make sense to wait for any upcoming updates or facelifts before making a decision?

autocar.india

•8h

With a budget of Rs 16-18 lakh, predominantly city driving and a focus on reliability, hassle-free ownership and a good service network, the Elevate is the best fit. Its naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine and CVT gearbox are smooth, proven and well suited to daily commuting, while Honda's reputation for reliability makes it an easy car to own over the long term. The ZX variant also gets the practical features you're looking for, including a 360-degree camera, TPMS, rear AC vents and a well-finished cabin without relying on gimmicks.If fuel efficiency is your highest priority, the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Delta Smart Hybrid AT is another strong option. It won't match the economy of the Strong Hybrid, but it still delivers impressive real-world efficiency, benefits from Maruti Suzuki's extensive service network and comfortably fits within your budget.If you're willing to stretch your budget by a couple of lakh rupees, the Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder Strong Hybrid is worth considering. Its hybrid powertrain is exceptionally efficient in city traffic and offers very low running costs, but at current prices, it sits outside your stated budget.

Honda Elevate

Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara

Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder

autocar.india

•2d

Given your priorities of safety, performance and service, the Mahindra XUV 7XO diesel automatic is the recommendation. This Mahindra car is one of the safest cars in the segment, with a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating, and the diesel engine offers strong performance and excellent highway touring ability. The 7XO also has a well-developed service network and is a proven product with a strong ownership track record. The petrol 2.0 turbo is also a strong performer but quite thirsty. The diesel is the better all-rounder for long-term ownership and running costs. The Tata Harrier diesel automatic is the alternative if you prioritise comfort and space, especially in the third row, which is better than the 7XO's. The Kia Seltos diesel automatic is also worth considering if you want a more premium cabin and a more compact package,

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Tata Harrier

Kia Seltos

autocar.india

•6h

Given your annual running of 8-9,000 km, a diesel no longer makes financial sense. The payback period is simply too long at this usage level, and modern petrol engines are far more refined and efficient than they were a decade ago. The new Renault Duster petrol is a strong option if you loved your old Duster. It retains the same rugged character and excellent ride quality, and the 1.3 turbo petrol is punchy and enjoyable to drive. The MG Hector is a spacious SUV with a roomy cabin, but it isn't as rewarding to drive as the new Renault Duster.If you are open to hybrids, the Maruti Suzuki Victoris Hybrid is worth considering. It offers excellent fuel efficiency and a very smooth driving experience, especially in city traffic. However, it does not have the same rugged SUV feel as the Duster.The key is to move past the old diesel mindset. Modern turbo petrol engines are genuinely enjoyable to drive, and the new Duster is the closest you will get to the car you loved, just with a more sensible fuel choice for your usage.

Renault Duster

Maruti Suzuki Victoris