I am confused between the Mahindra BE 6 and the VinFast VF7. My primary priorities are performance, handling, and driving range. Could you please advise which of these two electric SUVs would be the better choice based on these factors?

Autocar India

•59m

You're right to shortlist a diesel 7-seater and specifically these two MPVs, which, for the money, have the best three rows of seats on the market. The Kia Carens Clavis is the more modern option, of course, and will get you the latest features and better quality interiors. It is also the more fuel-efficient of the two and the friendlier vehicle to drive in the city, when you are not taking your long road trips. However, it's worth noting that with a full load of passengers and luggage, the 1.5 diesel engine will have to work hard, and those fuel economy numbers will drop, and overtaking won't be as effortless. Getting a used Innova Crysta in your budget, in good condition with low mileage and high specification, may actually be more of a challenge than you think. But that's just an indicator of how reliable it is, and how well it holds its value. It definitely has the stronger engine and more space, but makes some sacrifices to low-speed ride comfort, ease of driving and fuel economy. Overall, though, given your full-capacity usage, we would recommend the Innova.

Kia Carens Clavis

Toyota Innova Crysta

Autocar India

•1h

We would suggest going for the Mahindra XUV 7XO diesel manual. The biggest reason is that it feels like a proper upgrade in every sense. It is a larger, more spacious car, with a more premium cabin and a very comfortable ride, which you have already experienced in your test drive.More importantly, the diesel engine suits what you are used to with your Verna. It offers strong low-end torque and relaxed cruising, which makes it feel effortless on highways and more satisfying to drive over long distances. Over a long ownership period, diesel also tends to be more efficient for regular highway use.The Renault Duster 1.3 turbo petrol, on the other hand, is a good driver’s car. It will feel lighter and easier to drive, especially in tighter city conditions. However, while the turbo petrol is enjoyable, it won’t give you the same sense of punch as the Mahindra larger 2 litre diesel, or the same space and long-distance comfort as the XUV 7XO.We would still urge you to test drive the new Duster before taking a final call, but as an overall upgrade, the XUV 7XO is the stronger choice.

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Renault Duster

Autocar India

•2h

For your situation, there is no need to worry or consider selling the car. Your current usage of around 50 km per month, even with 4-6 weeks of no driving, is not harmful as long as you follow some basic precautions.Modern cars like your Tata Tigor CNG AMT can handle low usage, but they do need to be run periodically to stay healthy. The main things affected by long idle periods are the battery, tyres and fluids, not the engine itself.You should make it a point to drive the car once every 2-3 weeks for about 15-20 minutes, and occasionally run it on petrol as well, not just CNG. It is also important to stick to annual servicing, even if the running is very low, and keep an eye on battery condition and tyre pressure.There is no real downside to keeping the car, apart from following basic maintenance. Selling it now does not make financial sense either, since the major depreciation has already happened and replacing it will only add more cost.Overall, it is perfectly fine to continue using your current car, and with simple care, it will remain reliable for many years.

Tata Tigor