Delhi
Delhi
YP
Yogesh Patil
•8wI have recently learned to drive (still a newbie), though I am generally an enthusiast when it comes to driving and travelling. I am looking to buy a new car. My driving ratio will be around 30% city and 70% highway. I am looking for an automatic, preferably a torque converter; if not, then a CVT. Also, if I mostly drive on the highway, is it worth spending a lakh or more on an automatic? The car will be used mainly on weekends, not regularly, and mileage matters. Regarding the budget, I am looking to spend around or below ₹15L. Is that reasonable? My wife prefers a bigger car, and if we spend 2-3L extra to go for a C1 segment instead of B2, there seem to be more options in that segment. But is it really worth it? After watching a few videos and reviews, I read that as a newbie, one should stick to a naturally aspirated engine rather than a turbo. How true is that? Hardly any car nowadays has a proper 4-cylinder NA engine. In the B2 segment, there are the Brezza and Amaze. Considering road conditions, if we decide to go for a compact SUV, the Brezza seems like the only option. However, compared to other cars in this segment, its interior looks very basic compared to the Nexon, 3XO, or New Venue. So, what other options can I consider? The Nexon’s interior looks good, especially in the Creative or Fearless trims, but that comes with a turbo DCT. The 3XO/Kylaq also looks decent, but I have heard it has mileage issues. All this is very confusing. If we decide to spend the extra 2-3L, which C1 segment car would be worth considering?
Autocar India
There are numerous factors to consider here, and a few myths that need busting. First, for a beginner driver, what really matters is an engine with linear power delivery and quick, predictable throttle response. That makes it easier to accelerate smoothly and judge overtaking manoeuvres. Not all naturally aspirated engines are inherently responsive; some can actually demand more effort in day-to-day driving.
An automatic gearbox is always advisable for beginners. It removes the need for manual gear changes and lets you focus fully on the road. Given your city-highway split, with the bulk of driving on the highway, a good torque-converter automatic is the best option. That said, some CVTs also work well on highways.
For the cars on your shortlist, we would narrow it down to two based on the size and space you’re looking for. If you’re comfortable with a compact SUV, the Skoda Kylaq AT is the one we’d recommend. The 1.0 TSI engine is very responsive and, paired with the capable 6-speed Aisin torque-converter automatic, it’s an easy car to drive both in the city and on the highway. Yes, being a turbo-petrol, it is a bit on the thirsty side, but since you’ve mentioned that the car will only be used on weekends, we assume your running won’t be very high, and the impact on your wallet will be limited.
If your wife prefers a bigger car, the new Seltos is a good alternative. Here, the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol with the CVT makes sense. While it isn’t as punchy on the highway as the Kushaq or Kylaq, it works well in the city, is more fuel-efficient, and most importantly, is available with a stretch of around Rs 2-3 lakh over your Rs 15 lakh budget.
Skoda Kylaq
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Posted on: 27 Jan 2026
