Hi, I drive between Pune and Mumbai at least 16 times a month, with a monthly running of around 5,000 km. I was exploring an EV like the 9e or the Harrier for this kind of usage, but I still want to consider alternative options, maybe a hybrid or a diesel. What would you suggest? I’m okay with a budget of 25-30 lakh.

autocar.india

•23h

The Tata Harrier is a very good choice for your usage. With predominantly highway driving, the Harrier’s strengths really come to the fore. The diesel engine is strong and relaxed at cruising speeds, and the car feels planted and stable on long runs. The ride quality is also excellent, soaking up bad patches and undulations with ease, which makes it a comfortable long-distance companion.The only thing to be aware of is that Tata’s ownership experience can be a bit inconsistent depending on the service centre, so check the dealers out in your area as Tata Motors are making many improvements with their service. If you are open to alternatives, the Mahindra XUV 7XO is worth considering as well. It offers a more powerful diesel engine and is very well equipped.

Tata Harrier

Mahindra XUV 7XO

autocar.india

•5h

With an 80km daily run, mostly on the highway, the priority should be a car that is comfortable over long distances, stable at speed and easy to live with. The Duster 1.3 Turbo Techno+ is the better fit here. The Renault Duster’s ride quality is genuinely excellent, soaking up bad roads and undulations in a way few cars in this price range can. It also feels planted and confidence-inspiring at highway speeds, which makes long daily commutes far less tiring. The 1.3 turbo petrol engine is punchy and well-suited to highway driving, giving you strong overtaking performance when you need it. Moreover, the Techno+ variant represents excellent value in this price range, especially for your needs.The Hyundai Creta 1.5 NA S(O) is a very good car, but the naturally aspirated engine is not as strong on the highway, especially when fully loaded. You're right about the new generation; Kia has already launched the new Seltos, and Hyundai is expected to bring the next-generation Creta to India in early 2027. That said, the current Creta is still a very competent product, and Hyundai’s ownership experience and service network are strong.Given your usage, the Duster’s ride comfort, highway stability and stronger engine make it the better buy.

Renault Duster

Hyundai Creta

Kia Seltos

autocar.india

•1d

The Maruti Suzuki Victoris is a good upgrade from the Swift, and is backed by Maruti's widespread network. It is a well-rounded car, but do keep in mind, it's 1.5-petrol engine is efficient and feels adequately responsive in the city, but it can feel a bit lacklustre on the highway, especially while overtaking. You could consider a Honda Elevate. It is a practical, sensible SUV with a more powerful petrol engine. Both these vehicles should serve you well over your 10-15-year ownership period.

Maruti Suzuki Victoris

Honda Elevate