Hi Autocar Team, we are planning to buy a new car as a secondary vehicle, replacing our 2018 Ford Freestyle Petrol Titanium Plus. Our budget is around ₹16 lakh (with some flexibility). The car will be used mostly in the city, with 2-3 occupants, and we prefer a petrol automatic. We are inclined towards sub-4 metre compact SUVs due to the higher seating position. We initially considered the Kia Sonet, Hyundai Venue, and Tata Nexon, and have currently booked the Kia Sonet GTX+ petrol DCT. However, with several new launches, we are now confused. Cars like the new Kia Seltos are appealing for their space, but within our budget only the lower variants with the naturally aspirated petrol engine are feasible. The new Renault Duster also looks promising, but there is no Renault dealership in our area. Similarly, Skoda is not an option due to the absence of a dealership. Given this situation, are we making the right decision by going ahead with the Kia Sonet GTX+ petrol DCT in 2026, or should we reconsider other options within this budget?

Autocar India

•5h

The ride quality on the Kia Sonet is a weak spot. With its relatively short wheelbase and firm suspension tuning, the Sonet’s ride can feel lumpy over uneven surfaces and sharper potholes. In our real-world test, the Sonet DCT managed 11.6kpl in the city and 16.5kpl on the highway, which is respectable for the segment.The DCT gearboxes in Hyundais and Kias have generally proven to be quite reliable and are a good choice in this segment. However, it is worth noting that they use a dry clutch pack, which will wear over time and eventually require replacement. Heavy use in stop-and-go traffic, slowly creeping up slopes, and letting the car sit in D while stationary can accelerate wear, and replacing the clutch pack can be expensive. For added peace of mind, you could opt for an extended warranty, but ensure that it covers the DCT and its internal components, such as the clutch pack.If you still have reservations, then consider the Skoda Kylaq, the Mahindra XUV 3XO, and the Maruti Suzuki Fronx, all of which can be had with torque-converter automatics.

Skoda Kylaq

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Maruti Suzuki Fronx

Kia Sonet

Autocar India

•1d

Since you already have an electric MG Windsor, it would be advisable to get a petrol vehicle that can be used for longer journeys as well as the short commutes you mentioned. Among your choices, the Hyundai Venue is a very good pick. Although it shares its powertrain with the Kia Sonet, the Venue is based on a more modern platform. In the HX5 trim you’ve chosen, it comes equipped with most of the essential features, including a 10.25-inch infotainment screen and even a sunroof.A facelift for the Maruti Suzuki Brezza is expected, but the timeline is not yet confirmed. Sources suggest it could arrive around the festive season this year or even early next year. The exterior is not expected to get a radical makeover, but we do expect it to receive the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine and 6-speed torque-converter automatic that does duty in the Fronx. If you are willing to wait, it could be a good option.

MG Windsor

Kia Sonet

Maruti Suzuki Brezza

Hyundai Venue

Autocar India

•1d

Given your requirements, the Tata Nexon DCA is the better option. The Nexon's smaller size will make it easier to drive and park in the city. There's also the convenience of the DCA or dual-clutch automatic, which will really take away much stress from driving. Do note that while the Nexon is a good choice, it's not the best option in the segment. We would recommend you also check out petrol-automatic versions of the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Kia Syros, Mahindra XUV 3XO and Skoda Kylaq that offer punchier performance, which you will appreciate on highway drives. You could check out our comprehensive comparison to find the model that will fit your needs best - https://youtu.be/eHhFbfwYADo

Tata Nexon

Hyundai New Venue

Kia Sonet

Kia Syros

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Skoda Kylaq