I am confused between the Mahindra XUV 7XO AX5 and Mahindra XUV 7XO AX7 variants, as I prefer practicality over extra features. Alternatively, should I consider waiting for the Tata Sierra?

Autocar India

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If you can install a charger at home and have charging stations on the route to your destination, an EV does make sense for your heavy use. Under Rs. 20 lakh, consider the Tata Curvv EV with the 55kWh battery pack. In our real world tests, it managed 352km on the highway which means your 350km journey is possible with a quick stop in between to top up. It also has good ground clearance and rides well, so it will deal with village roads nicely.For under Rs. 30 lakh, consider the Mahindra XEV 9e with the 79kWh battery pack. In our tests, it managed 488km on the highway meaning with some care, your 350km journey is possible in one go. You will need to charge at your destination though. EVs are less efficient on the highway and particularly with a full load require care to ensure the battery doesn't deplete too quickly. Your charging stops will also need to be planned in advance and there is possibility that you will have to wait at a stop for charge to become available. If this seems like too much work, then stick to a diesel. Under Rs. 20 lakh, consider the Kia Seltos diesel or the Hyundai Creta diesel. Under 30 lakh, you could consider the Mahindra XUV 7XO or the Scorpio N. All of these will comfortably manage village roads and do long highway stints without worries.

Mahindra XEV 9e

Tata Curvv EV

Hyundai Creta

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Mahindra Scorpio N

Autocar India

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The Tata Safari Adventure X Plus Automatic Diesel is a good alternative if the waiting period for the XUV 7XO is proving too long.The Safari's biggest strengths are its comfortable ride, spacious cabin and excellent second-row seating. It is a very capable long-distance cruiser and feels premium. The diesel automatic powertrain is well suited to highway use and delivers relaxed performance for family touring.That said, the XUV 7XO still has the edge as an overall package. Its diesel engine feels stronger and more refined, the automatic gearbox is better calibrated, and it offers a more modern feature set in comparable variants. It is also the more engaging SUV to drive.If immediate delivery is important, the Safari is not a compromise that will leave you disappointed. In fact, buyers who prioritize rear-seat comfort and long-distance travel may even prefer it to the Mahindra car.

Tata Safari

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Autocar India

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The Skoda Kylaq Signature AT would be the recommendation here. Among the cars you've shortlisted, it offers the best balance of comfort, performance and long-distance ability. The rear seat is spacious enough for five adults on shorter journeys, the torque-converter automatic is smooth in city traffic, and the turbo-petrol engine feels effortless on highways. It also rides well and feels more substantial than the hatchbacks in your list.If rear-seat space is the absolute priority, then the Hyundai i20 Sportz IVT deserves consideration. It has one of the widest rear benches in the segment, a smooth CVT automatic and a very easy-going nature in Delhi traffic. However, it doesn't feel as robust or versatile as the Kylaq on longer highway drives.The Toyota Glanza V AMT is the efficiency champion and will likely be the cheapest to run, but the AMT gearbox is not as polished as the automatics in the Hyundai or Skoda. The Hyundai Exter SX Tech AMT is a good urban runabout and gets a sunroof, but it feels narrower inside and isn't the most comfortable choice for five adults.

Skoda Kylaq

Hyundai i20

Toyota Glanza