Hello Experts, I recently test drove the Citroen C5 Aircross, and my primary concern was the price, around 41-42 lakhs for a diesel model. I'd appreciate your expert opinion on whether it's worth the investment.

Autocar India

•1h

Given your usage pattern of mostly city driving with traffic and a few highway runs, pick the Kia Sonet diesel automatic. It suits you better because its automatic is a torque converter unit, unlike the Nexon's AMT, which feels smooth and quick, so driving in traffic and hill starts are easy. The 116hp, 1.5-litre diesel engine is refined and responsive, which makes driving less tiring. Plus, the cabin feels more premium than the Nexon's.Know the trade-offs: the Sonet’s back seat is not as spacious as the Tata Nexon, and the ride can feel a little firm at low speeds on broken roads.

Kia Sonet

Tata Nexon

Autocar India

•1h

You should consider the Skoda Kylaq Prestige MT for your needs.Like your Ford Figo diesel, the Kylaq has impressive ride and handling balance, and it feels sure-footed on the move. The suspension handles bad patches well, and it stays steady at high speeds. The 115hp, 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine is also punchy, much like the Figo diesel's, and it comes paired with a slick 6-speed manual gearbox. The Kylaq has even received a full, 5-star crash safety rating from Bharat NCAP.Do note, though, the Kylaq won't have the same low-end grunt like the Figo diesel, and it won't be as efficient either. If you still wish for a torquey diesel engine in a hatchback, go for the Tata Altroz Accomplished S.

Skoda Kylaq

Tata Altroz

Autocar India

•2h

Only outstation use and a Rs 10 lakh cap for 7 seats points straight to the Renault Triber. It rides comfortably on rough roads and feels steady on the highway. The packaging for a sub-4 metre vehicle is superb, with a second row that slides and a usable third row. When not in use, the third row can be removed for a generous 625-litre boot. It is easy to drive and fairly economical on fuel for long trips.A few catches: with all 7 seats up, the boot is tiny. If you are opting for the AMT, its shifts are slow and sometimes jerky. And while the engine is fine in the city, it will feel strained when pushing for an overtake with 7 people on board. If you are able to wait until the end of the year, Renault has announced that the Triber will get the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol from the Kiger with the optional CVT. This will largely address the last two catches.Alternatively, you could consider the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, but even the base LXi trim will likely cross your Rs 10 lakh budget on-road.

Renault Triber

Maruti Suzuki Ertiga