I already own an SX4 ZXi 2010 model that has done 80,000 km. I maintain it very well, and I’m quite happy with the car, but its mileage is around 13-14 km/l. Is there any way to improve the mileage? I’m also confused about whether to keep it for another five years or change it now. My only concern is fuel consumption.

Asked by: T K appachu

If you are noticing a drop in mileage more recently, then it could be on account of the E20 fuel. Since ethanol has a lower energy density, the higher ethanol content in E20 will reduce your fuel efficiency. If the car is running well and you are satisfied with it, you could keep it longer.

However, if mileage is a big concern, you can change your car now, as all new cars are E20-compliant and are better equipped to manage E20.

The Maruti Suzuki Dzire is a good, fuel-efficient sedan, while the strong-hybrid Maruti Suzuki Victoris is even more efficient, though it is priced higher.

Maruti Suzuki Dzire

Maruti Suzuki Dzire

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Autocar India Team

Nov 01, 2025

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Asked by: Gaurav Gupta I am planning to buy a BMW M340i for long-distance trips into wildlife reserves, as I have a strong interest in wildlife. I have two concerns, one is the E20 petrol. The M340i engine is a high-compression engine and needs high-octane fuel. With E20 petrol now available across the country, will this cause any issues for my engine? The other worry is the low tyre profile on bad roads, which may lead to punctures. Do give me your best advice. On E20 fuel, you don’t have to worry at all. In fact, you should be happy because the base octane rating for E20 fuel has jumped from 91 octane to a minimum of 95 octane or even higher. Hence, this suits the 11.0:1 compression ratio of the M340i’s B58 engine, and now, instead of hunting for high-octane fuel, you can use fuel anywhere, as you are now assured of 95 octane.A bigger concern are the low profile tyres, which are staggered with 225/40 R19 in front and an even lower 255/35 R19 at the back. This could be a problem on bad roads, where the tyres could be vulnerable to impact damage.One way to protect the tyres against punctures, but not guaranteed, is to pump up the tyre pressure by about 3-4PSI to make the sidewalls stiffer. This reduces the flex in the sidewalls and makes them more resistant to impact damage, but quite honestly, the BMW M340i is not a car we would take into the jungle!

Autocar India Team

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Asked by: Shekhar Kumar I am a 47-year-old male (5 ft 9 in, 85 kg) looking to buy a long-term, reliable, strong and powerful scooter. My daily city commute is about 15-20 km, and my budget is up to ₹1.5 lakh. I am currently considering the TVS Ntorq 150, TVS Jupiter 125, Suzuki Access 125 and Honda Activa 125. Are there any other scooters I should consider? Please advise. The TVS Ntorq 150 is the most powerful scooter in your shortlist, and it will also be the most fun to ride. It is also the most feature-packed, with a TFT display, Bluetooth connectivity, riding modes and a host of other features. The TVS Jupiter 125 is a more practical option, with plush ride quality and a huge 33-litre underseat storage space. The Suzuki Access 125 is a family scooter with peppy performance that should be very reliable and fuel-efficient, too. The Honda Activa 125 doesn't have any one standout feature, but is a proven package you can't really go wrong with.Take a test ride of all four so you can pick the one that best suits your needs.

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Autocar India Team

Dec 17, 2025

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