I’m a 21-year-old college student, and my family already owns a 2020 Fortuner. I’m looking for a second car for college use and outings. Should I go with the Thar, as per my father's choice, or the new-generation 2026 Hilux, which I like? Or is there any other good option? It must be a diesel SUV.

autocar.india

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With a daily running of around 100 km, fuel efficiency becomes a major factor in ownership costs. The Skoda Kushaq petrol automatic is a good car, but the 10-13kpl you are seeing is typical for a turbo petrol automatic, especially with E20 petrol. At this usage, a diesel or a strong hybrid makes far more sense.If you do regular highway runs, a diesel is still the most practical and cost-effective solution. The Mahindra XUV 7XO diesel automatic would be the recommendation here. It is a strong highway car, comfortable, spacious and the diesel engine will deliver significantly better fuel efficiency than your Kushaq. Diesel running costs will be far lower over your kind of mileage. If that is out of your budget, something smaller like a Kia Seltos diesel, while not as powerful, is even more efficient.If your usage is mostly city a strong hybrid could be a better solution. The Maruti Suzuki Victoris is the most practical and cost-effective option. It is well priced, has a proven track record and will dramatically reduce your running costs. The strong hybrid is better suited to the city, where it is more likely to run on its electric motor than use the engine and deliver the better mileage.

Skoda Kushaq

Kia Seltos

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Maruti Suzuki Victoris

autocar.india

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Go for the Maruti Suzuki Brezza automatic. It is the better fit for your requirements. You want a naturally aspirated petrol engine, good mileage in both city and highway driving, and a spacious car for three people. The Brezza delivers on all those points. The 1.5-litre petrol engine of this Maruti Suzuki car is smooth and reliable, and the 6-speed torque converter automatic is well suited to Indian driving conditions. It is also a more spacious car than the Honda Amaze, with a wider cabin and better rear seat comfort for three people. The higher seating position and SUV stance also make it easier to drive in the city and over bad roads.The Amaze is a good car, but it is a compact sedan and does not offer the same level of space or practicality. The Brezza is the more complete package for your needs.

Maruti Suzuki Brezza

Honda Amaze

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The Hyundai Creta is a perfectly fine car for a first-time driver. It is not a large SUV by modern standards, and it is actually quite easy to drive thanks to its light controls, good visibility and comfortable seating position. The automatic versions are easier to live with in city traffic. The only thing to keep in mind is that the Creta is a midsize SUV, so parking in tight spaces will require a bit more attention than a hatchback, but with all the parking aids, it will not be very intimidating once you get used to the dimensions.If your dream is to own this Hyundai car, there is no reason to compromise on a smaller car just because you are a beginner. The key is to take a proper driving course, spend time getting comfortable with the car and start with quieter roads before tackling busy city traffic. The Creta is a well-rounded, comfortable and easy-to-drive SUV that will serve you well for many years.You could also consider waiting for the new-gen Creta expected in the first quarter of 2027.

Hyundai Creta