Autocar India
17w

I currently own a Maruti Ertiga VXI CNG (2015 model) and am planning to buy a new car. I am considering the Kia Carens, Mahindra XUV700, and Maruti Suzuki XL6, but I am confused about which would best suit my needs. The Kia Carens appeals to me with its premium design and CNG option, but I am unsure about the real-world mileage of the CNG variant due to mixed feedback. The XL6, being a 6-seater, is slightly less suitable as I prefer a 7-seater. I also like the Mahindra XUV700 for its premium features and design, but I am concerned about its mileage. My monthly usage is around 200-300 km, with one annual long trip of approximately 1000-1500 km. Based on this, which car would be the most suitable choice? Additionally, are there any plans for Maruti to launch a 7-seater CNG version of the Grand Vitara in the near future?

Verified
16w

Pick the Kia Carens Clavis with the 1.5-litre NA petrol. For your low running, pure petrol is a better choice than CNG, and the Clavis will feel like a significant upgrade over your Ertiga. It keeps the easy, light feel you are used to, but the cabin feels nicer, the third row is a touch roomier, and with no CNG tank, you will have a usable boot. You also avoid queues at CNG pumps, and the money saved on fuel will be minimal with your limited usage.

If you still prefer CNG, then the older Carens, which is still on sale in just one trim, can be equipped with a dealer-fit CNG kit. The Mahindra XUV 7XO is a viable alternative, but expect significantly higher fuel bills with the petrol.

One thing to be aware of with the Carens Clavis petrol is that with seven people and luggage on steep climbs, it will feel worked. If that matters, consider the Carens 1.5 turbo-petrol instead.

During your test drive, carry your family, sit in the third row, and check the boot with a couple of suitcases to make a clear choice. 

Kia Carens Clavis

Kia Carens Clavis

More questions on similar cars

2d

I own a Maruti Vitara Breeza ZDI 2017 model vehicle and the vehicle has completed nearly 69000 km till date. I have moved to Delhi and the issue with not allowing BS4 vehicles to run during winters is looming large. My diesel car will turn 10 year old by June 2027 and so I want to upgrade my to suit my needs. We are a family of 3 and occasionally my mother joins us, sometimes relatives visit us and a pet dog also accompanies us on most of our long drives. I am looking for a car with features like sunroof, large infotainment and ventilated seats. Should it be a petrol, diesel or hybrid vehicle and should it be a 5 or 7 seater? My budget is less than 30 lakhs and I will be owning the vehicle for at least next 10 years.

Verified
2d

The Mahindra XUV 7XO Petrol Automatic would be the best fit for your requirements. Your annual running is relatively low, so a petrol makes more sense than a diesel or strong hybrid, especially considering Delhi's regulations and your plan to keep the car for the next 10 years. The XUV 7XO offers a spacious cabin, a usable third row for occasional family trips, plenty of luggage space with the third row folded for your pet, and comes loaded with the features you're looking for.The Kia Carens Clavis Turbo Petrol DCT is the more practical alternative. It offers even better interior space and practicality, especially if you expect to use the third row more often, the 1.5 turbo DCT has enough power and will be more efficient but it doesn't feel as rugged or as SUV-like as the Mahindra.

VehicleMahindra XUV 7XO
VehicleKia Carens Clavis
5d

I am confused between the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Sportz AMT, Maruti Suzuki Swift AMT, and Tata Tiago Pure+ AMT. My usage will be low to moderate, including city driving as well as occasional highway drives, and I am a first-time car buyer and driver. Based on my driving requirements, should I consider a CNG variant or stick to my original plan of buying a petrol car? Please help me choose the best car in this price range and also suggest any other suitable alternatives available.

Verified
1h

For a first-time buyer with low to moderate city and highway use, stick to a petrol car. Our recommendation will be the Maruti Swift AMT over the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios AMT. Your running does not justify the added cost and compromises of a CNG car, and the Maruti Swift strikes the best balance for your needs. This Maruti Suzuki car is easy to drive, has a smooth and refined petrol engine, a comfortable ride and a well-built, practical cabin. The AMT is one of the smoother units in the segment, making it a confidence-inspiring choice for a new driver. This Hyundai car isn't as good as the Swift when it comes to ride comfort and even rear seat space. The Tata Tiago AMT is the value pick, but the cabin and overall refinement are not at the same level. That said, if you want a slightly larger and more premium feeling car, the Maruti Suzuki Baleno AMT is also worth considering, but it will stretch the budget. If you don't want to stretch the Swift is the most well-rounded and easiest car to live with in this range.

VehicleMaruti Suzuki Swift
VehicleHyundai Grand i10 Nios
VehicleTata Tiago
VehicleMaruti Suzuki Baleno

Expert reviews worth reading

Popular discussions right now

Posted on: 12 Apr 2026