My monthly running is 1,400 km. I need an automatic car with good mileage, pickup, looks, and interior finish. I’m confused between the Baleno, i20, and Altroz. My budget is around ₹10 lakh.

autocar.india

•1d

Go for the Kia Seltos. While they are both similar SUVs that use the same engines, the Seltos is a larger vehicle built on a newer platform. It thus offers better space and comfort, as well as new-generation tech, which the Creta will only get when its next-gen model is launched in 2027. It also has a higher-quality interior with better fit and finish. Depending on the engine, gearbox and variant you choose, you may find a few more features in the equivalent Creta compared to the Seltos, but overall value for money, the Seltos should still come out on top, considering its inherent benefits. That said, some reasons you might want to opt for the Creta is because you already own a Hyundai and are already in their system, and have an established relationship with the service centre. Also, if you are planning to exchange your i20, ask the dealer for a loyalty bonus or any other deal they might have; this could swing the purchase in favour of the Creta.

Kia Seltos

Hyundai Creta

Hyundai i20

autocar.india

•1d

Yes, switch to an EV if you have a fixed parking spot where you can install a home charger - for a pure city, second car, the Tata Punch EV fits best. Stop-go traffic is where EVs save the most, and with low maintenance and cheap electricity, the math works out over a few years. If you cannot charge at home, skip the EV idea.As a city commuter, the Punch EV is easy. Light steering, smooth creep, strong regen that lets you use the brake less, and ground clearance for bad roads. In real use, the Medium Range handles a typical week of school runs and errands on a single charge; the Long Range provides more buffer if others in the family do longer loops. Tata’s EVs have held up well so far, and support is wide. For variants, pick the Medium Range if your daily running is short and you can top up at home; choose the Long Range only if you want to charge less often. The 7.2 kW home charger is nice to have, not a must-have.Also, look at the Tata Tiago EV for a lower price, and the MG Comet if you want something compact. If you stay petrol, the Hyundai i20 IVT or Amaze CVT automatics are the easiest city alternatives.

Tata Punch EV

Tata Tiago EV

MG Comet

Hyundai i20

Honda Amaze

autocar.india

•49m

Go for the MG Hector Smart Pro manual. The Hector remains a strong product with a spacious cabin, comfortable ride and a genuinely premium feel for the money. The recent sales decline is more a reflection of increased competition and the age of the product rather than any fundamental issue with the car itself. MG has also been consistent with updates and feature additions, which helps keep the Hector relevant.The Hyundai Creta is the more modern product with a wider engine line-up and a stronger brand pull, but it is also significantly more expensive for a similarly equipped variant. The Hector offers better value for money, especially in the mid-spec variants, and remains a very comfortable and practical family SUV.The only real drawback with the Hector is that it is a larger car and not as easy to manoeuvre in tight city conditions as the Creta. If your usage is predominantly urban and parking is a concern, the Creta is the better choice. Otherwise, the Hector remains a solid buy and the sales numbers should not be a deterrent.

MG Hector

Hyundai Creta