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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.

Asked by: Abhishek Bhalla
If you are comfortable with an EV and have easy access to charging, the electric options are sure worth a look. Your running costs will be lowest with an electric car. The Tata Harrier EV and Mahindra XEV 9e are good options within your budget. We did find the Mahindra XEV 9e to be the more complete package. You can read the Tata Harrier EV vs Mahindra XEV 9e comparison article for detailed insights.
Among diesel options, the Mahindra XUV 700 AT is a good buy for your needs. It's got a strong diesel engine, a smooth auto gearbox and is generally a good highway car. The Tata Harrier/Safari AT are also good but don't quite match the XUV on refinement. You could also consider the Hyundai Creta AT. While it's not as punchy as the XUV 700, the engine-gearbox combo is really good and fuel economy is a highlight. 

Hybrid options include the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Victoris, and the Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder. There are also mid-spec versions of the Toyota Innova HyCross and Maruti Suzuki Invicto within your budget.
Great fuel economy is a given on the hybrids, but the drive experience on the highway isn't as satisfying as what you'd get on the electric and hybrid options listed above.  
Tata Harrier EV

Tata Harrier EV

Answered by
AI
Autocar India team24 Nov' 25
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