Autocar India
2d

Hi, I am planning to buy the XUV 3XO EV AX7L but am a little confused, as many people are saying that it uses an older NMC battery pack. I am also considering the Tata Punch EV top-spec variant, but overall, I prefer the XUV 3XO EV. Please suggest which one would be a better choice and also explain the NMC battery technology.

Verified
4m

The NMC battery chemistry is not a reason to avoid the car. NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) batteries are widely used in EVs and are proven technology here in India and globally. They offer good energy density and performance, but need proper thermal management, which is what every manufacturer, including Mahindra, has engineered the battery pack for. The concerns around NMC are often overstated – the key is how the battery is managed, not just the chemistry. 

The Mahindra XUV 3XO EV is also a more spacious car and offers better performance; however, the overall powertrain calibration in terms of throttle response, easy drivability and power efficiency is better in the Tata Punch EV. So, keeping that in mind, if you are ok with the smaller size, we would lean towards the Punch EV. A good alternative would be the Kia Syros EV, which will offer you a very well calibrated and tuned powertrain, excellent reliability and a lot of interior space too.  

Tata Punch EV

Tata Punch EV

Help Girish with similar question

More posts on similar cars

5d

I’m a doctor, and my daily driving is currently around 65km, with an almost 50:50 mix of city and highway use. This could increase to 80–100km a day in the future. I have booked a Maruti Victoris ZXi Strong Hybrid for Rs 20.5 lakh on-road after offers, but I am still confused about whether to consider the Tata Punch EV, Maruti e Vitara or any other option. Long-term reliability and keeping running costs manageable are important, as the car will be owned for at least 10 years. I am also concerned about ethanol blending in petrol. My first choice was the Kia Seltos diesel automatic HTK. Considering the expected usage and long-term ownership, which option would make the most financial sense?

Verified
2d

Go for the Maruti Suzuki Victoris ZXI Strong Hybrid CVT. With your daily running of 65-100km and a 50:50 city-highway split, the strong hybrid is the most sensible choice. It will deliver excellent fuel efficiency in both city and highway conditions, keeping running costs low over a long ownership period. Maruti’s service network and proven reliability also make it a safe long-term bet.The Tata Punch EV and Maruti Suzuki E Vitara are good EVs, but with your usage pattern and the possibility of increasing daily running, the hybrid offers greater flexibility without the need to plan charging stops.On ethanol blending, there is no need to worry. Modern engines are engineered to handle E20, and there is no official roadmap beyond that. The Victoris hybrid is the most financially sensible and hassle-free choice for your usage and long-term ownership plans.

VehicleMaruti Suzuki e Vitara
VehicleMaruti Suzuki Victoris
VehicleTata Punch EV
1d

Hi all, Myself Girish from Kochi, looking to buy a new car, especially for my parents; who are both 70+ and have knee issues. I like the Creta and Seltos. My priorities are comfort and easy entry and exit. I’m specifically looking for a diesel variant with a manual transmission. I’d love to hear your suggestions or recommendations. My budget is around Rs. 16 lakh.

Verified
6h

For your requirement, the Hyundai Creta diesel manual would be our first recommendation. The Creta has a slightly softer suspension setup than the Kia Seltos, which translates to a more comfortable ride over broken roads and speed breakers – something your parents will appreciate. The seat height is also well-judged, making entry and exit relatively easy without being too high off the ground. The diesel car is refined, fuel-efficient and well-suited to highway runs, while the manual gearbox is light and easy to operate.The Kia Seltos diesel manual is also a strong contender, offering a slightly more premium cabin feel and a marginally roomier rear seat. However, the ride is a touch firmer than this Hyundai car, which may not be ideal given your parents' knee issues.If your budget is strictly around Rs 16 lakh, you will be looking at the lower to mid variants of both cars. In that case, the Creta's focus on comfort makes it the better fit for your needs. If you are open to stretching the budget slightly, the Kia Seltos HTK+ diesel manual is worth considering for its additional features and more premium cabin.Overall, the Creta diesel manual strikes the best balance between comfort, ease of entry/exit, and long-term ownership experience.

VehicleHyundai Creta
VehicleKia Seltos

Popular discussions right now

Posted on: 30 Aug 2026