Latest questions answered by experts

Hi Autocar team, I currently own a VW Tiguan TDI and absolutely love it, but I am considering upgrading to a Kia Sorento. Since I am not a fan of bulky SUVs, would the Sorento be a worthy replacement for the Tiguan? Also, considering my monthly running of 1,000+ km in the city alongside 4 to 5 long road trips of 1,000 km each annually, would you recommend the diesel or the hybrid?

•1h

The Kia Sorento diesel will be a good upgrade from your Volkswagen Tiguan diesel, since your running is high. Although it won't be as engaging to drive as your Volkswagen car, the Sorento diesel makes for a fantastic long distance cruiser thanks to the strong 2.2-litre engine, comfy ride and spacious cabin. The third row of seats will also give you added practicality over your Tiguan. This Kia car diesel also feels sprightly and tractable from low speeds so it won't feel sluggish or bulky by any means.

Kia Sorento

Volkswagen Tiguan

Innova Crysta owner · 35,000 km

I currently own a 2024 Toyota Innova Crysta and love taking long drives in it. I have a 6-year-old son and am now planning to replace the Crysta with a diesel automatic (preferably) or a hybrid SUV/MPV within a budget of Rs 35 lakh. My annual running is around 20,000 km, including 1 or 2 monthly long trips and 2 to 3 long family vacations every year. Please suggest a car that offers good reliability, a great driving experience, and hassle-free ownership. I have the Mahindra XUV700 AX7 L (7XO), Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid, and Kia Sorento in mind.

•3h

The most equipped and bang for your buck choice here would be the Mahindra XUV 7XO. The diesel engine is creamy smooth, has superb power delivery and is packed to the gills with features in its top-spec AX7 L guise that will fit well under your budget. However, if you want to stick to the Toyota brand, the Hycross is a good choice and considering the budget, better than the Kia Sorento that will only fit in with its HTE(O) variant that misses on features. The Toyota Innova Hycross is a strong-hybrid which is a good replacement for a diesel and has a lot of space in all three rows. There is an update for the Hycross that isn't too far so if you can wait, that would be a good choice. If not, you need to just select if the extra feature set of the Mahindra along with its modern cabin is something you need. If not, the Hycross is a great choice.

Toyota Innova HyCross

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Kia Sorento

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I am looking to buy a hybrid car in the Rs 20 lakh to Rs 25 lakh range because my daily running is 80 to 100 km. I was looking at the Renault Duster Strong Hybrid 1.8L, but I am not a big fan of its looks and rear seat space. I would like to know when the Kia Seltos Hybrid and the 7-seater version of the Duster are coming out so I can plan accordingly.

•4h

Since the design and rear seat space of the Renault Duster is not something you prefer, our recommendation would be to wait a bit for the upcoming Kia Seltos hybrid. The standard version has a good rear seat with plenty of space and comfort and the hybrid is likely to follow that. The Creta will also get a hybrid powertrain but this Kia car will be coming first so you will not have to wait too long. The 7-seat version of this Renault car will also look similar to the current Duster so if you aren't a fan of that, the upcoming SUV won't exactly be up your alley either. The idea decision would be to wait for the Seltos hybrid and take a call then.

Kia Seltos Hybrid

Renault Duster

I am currently driving a 10-year-old Hyundai i20 and plan to upgrade to an automatic SUV. My annual running is relatively low at around 8,000 to 10,000 km, with approximately 70% city driving and 30% highway usage. My top priority is safety, followed by fuel efficiency. My budget is around Rs 22 lakh (on-road). Considering these requirements, could you please suggest the best non-EV SUV options?

•5h

Considering your usage pattern, it would be better to prioritise a petrol automatic SUV with a strong safety record, a reliable transmission and reasonable city fuel efficiency.With 8,000- 10,000 km of annual running, it does not make sense to pay extra for a diesel or paying a substantial premium for a strong hybrid purely to save fuel. The savings may take too long to recover. The Maruti Suzuki Victoris addresses three of your priorities rather well: crash safety, automatic gearbox reliability and fuel efficiency. Given your annual running of 8,000- 10,000 km, there is a case for buying the regular petrol automatic instead. The 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine gets a six-speed torque-converter automatic.The ZXI+ would be a good option. It offers a good balance of safety, equipment, gearbox suitability and purchase price. You also avoid paying extra for hybrid technology that you might not fully benefit from with your relatively low annual mileage.Maruti's extensive service network and parts availability are advantages when considering long-term ownership.

Maruti Suzuki Victoris

I am planning to purchase an electric vehicle for a daily commute of approximately 80 km in Hyderabad, with a budget of up to Rs. 20 lakh. My key priorities are spacious interiors, strong safety features, good build quality, and overall reliability. Considering my daily usage, would opting for a Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model be a financially beneficial choice?

•7h

Our recommendation would be to prioritise the MG Windsor EV and Tata Nexon EV. Each has a different strength, but both satisfy the need for cabin space, safety and build quality. Between the two, we would rank the MG Windsor on top. The 52.9kWh battery and claimed 449km range make it particularly appealing for your commute. This MG car also offers excellent passenger space. The Exclusive Pro's estimated Hyderabad on-road price is around Rs. 19.1 lakh, putting it within budgetOn the BaaS question, the initial recommendation is to buy the battery outright rather than opt for BaaS, particularly if you intend to keep the car for five years or longer. Considering you drive only 22 days a month, the break-even period increases to approximately 5.3–5.6 years. The best way to do it would be to buy the Windsor without BaaS.

MG Windsor

Tata Nexon EV

I am looking to buy a car that will usually accommodate three people. I have shortlisted the Tata Punch CNG, Tata Nexon CNG and Tata Nexon diesel. My monthly running is around 400km in the city and 800km on the highway, and I live in Pune. Which of these three cars would you recommend, considering that I plan to keep it for more than 10 years? My priorities are low running and maintenance costs, along with long-term reliability. I would appreciate your suggestion based on these factors. Please restrict the comparison to these three options and do not include Maruti models.

•17h

The Tata Nexon diesel would be our recommendation, given your monthly running of around 1,200km, with 800km on the highway. Its 1.5-litre diesel engine produces 115hp and 260Nm, making it considerably better suited to highway cruising and overtaking than the CNG engines in the Tata Punch and Nexon. It will also deliver better fuel efficiency on long runs. The Nexon CNG is worth considering if minimising fuel costs is the overriding priority, but the diesel offers stronger performance and a more relaxed highway experience. The Punch CNG is the least suitable of the three for your usage, as it is smaller and its performance is more limited, particularly with passengers and luggage.For 10-year ownership, remember that the diesel will have higher periodic maintenance costs, including additional fuel filter and timing belt related expenses. CNG also brings its own filter maintenance and periodic cylinder testing requirements.

Tata Nexon

Tata Punch

What would be the better option for long-term ownership: the Tata Nexon or the Mahindra XUV 3XO?

•19h

The Mahindra XUV 3XO would be our pick for long-term ownership over the Tata Nexon, particularly if you are considering the petrol automatic. Its 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine is stronger and the six-speed torque converter automatic is a well-established gearbox that is better suited to both city traffic and highway driving. The 3XO also offers a more spacious cabin, better rear-seat comfort and a more engaging driving experience.Both Tata and Mahindra have room for improvement when it comes to after-sales service, and workshop experience can vary considerably by location. However, Mahindra has a slight edge in consistency and technical support. The Nexon is a good product, but its DCA but it does not feel as refined or potent as the 3XO's torque converter.

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Tata Nexon

I’m planning to buy an electric car, but I’m a little confused and would appreciate your advice. I’m a civil engineer, and my daily commute is around 100–150km, covering a mix of city and village roads. I also travel frequently to my hometown, which is in a hilly region, with a round trip of approximately 270km. My highway usage is relatively low. My primary requirement is a 5-seater EV, and my budget is around Rs 23 lakh. Currently, I’m considering the Tata Harrier EV Adventure S and the MG Tomahawk EV Excite, but I’m open to other suggestions if you think there are better options. I have already test-driven the Mahindra XEV 9S, but its base variant is currently unavailable, while the mid variant is beyond my budget. Could you please suggest which EV would be the best choice for my usage and requirements? Thank you in advance for your advice.

•21h

In your case, given the requirement and conditions, the Tata Sierra EV would be a good option to consider. While the Harrier EV is slightly bigger, the Sierra EV in the same price will get you the same battery with better range and a better feature set too. The claimed range for the Sierra EV is also better than the Harrier EV and it is a newer car. Rear seat comfort and space is also better and the ride comfort in the Sierra EV trumps the Harrier EV. Uphill drives won't be a struggle either given the four terrain modes the Sierra gets and being a RWD. All things considered, the Sierra EV makes the most sense so we would urge you to check it out.

Tata Sierra EV

Tata Harrier EV

I currently own a 2019 Honda Amaze petrol manual, which has covered around 70,000 km. I genuinely enjoy the car, particularly the creamy smoothness, predictable low-end response and reliability of Honda's 1.2-litre, four-cylinder i-VTEC engine. I am now contemplating a change, and the Renault Triber Turbo has caught my attention because of its modular seating, practical cabin and features such as cruise control. However, I am torn about whether moving from the Amaze to the Triber Turbo would be a genuine upgrade or an ergonomic and mechanical compromise. I would appreciate some advice on what to expect in terms of engine refinement, drivability, comfort and overall ownership experience compared to my current car.

•22h

The Renault Triber Turbo is a worthwhile upgrade if you want more space, versatility and stronger performance, but it won't match the Honda Amaze's engine refinement. Its 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbo petrol engine produces 100 hp and 180 Nm, and is significantly more capable than the Triber's naturally aspirated engine. It has a strong mid-range, pulls well even when fully loaded and feels much more comfortable at highway speeds. The suspension is also well sorted, with good high-speed composure and improved body control around bends.However, the engine has noticeable three-cylinder vibrations at idle, and its power delivery is less linear than the Amaze's naturally aspirated i-VTEC. You will also need to keep it above 2,000rpm to avoid the off-boost hesitation. The five speed manual gearbox is notchy, while road and wind noise are quite noticeable at highway speeds. The Triber's front seats could also do with better lumbar and thigh support.We would look at the Triber Turbo as an upgrade in practicality and performance, rather than refinement or overall driving experience.

Renault Triber

Honda Amaze

Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder

Dear Team Autocar, I am planning to buy a mid-size petrol automatic SUV and have a monthly running of around 500km. I am currently considering the Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder Neodrive G, Honda Elevate and Mahindra Scorpio. I have come across several online reports suggesting that a facelifted Toyota Hyryder could be launched soon. Could you confirm whether this is likely and, if so, provide an approximate launch timeline? I would also appreciate your guidance on choosing a vehicle that offers a low cost of ownership, affordable maintenance and better fuel efficiency. Thank you in advance for your suggestions.

•23h

The Toyota Hyryder facelift is still some time away. While there are reports suggesting an update in 2027, we haven't seen a convincing indication of an imminent launch, and there is no confirmed timeline from Toyota.We would suggest considering the current Toyota Hyryder Petrol G(O) Neodrive AT rather than waiting indefinitely. The 1.5-litre petrol engine and six-speed torque converter automatic make for a reliable, easy-to-own package, and with your relatively low monthly running of 500km. The Honda Elevate CVT is also worth considering if you prioritise a smoother drive and a more spacious cabin.The current Hyryder is also attracting attractive discounts, which are unlikely to be available on the facelift when it first arrives. Our advice would be to negotiate hard on the current model and buy it if you get a good deal, rather than wait for an update that is still some distance away.

Honda Elevate

I am planning to buy a car this year, around Diwali or the end of 2026. I am looking for a spacious, comfortable and safe 5-seater for my family, with an on-road budget of Rs 8–15 lakh. Around Rs 12 lakh is my sweet spot, although I am open to spending less if a car offers excellent mileage, safety, space and reliability. My expected running is around 7,000–8,000 km per month, primarily involving daily commutes, a mix of GT road driving and city driving. I intend to keep the car for at least 10–12 years, so fuel efficiency, low maintenance costs, long-term reliability, comfortable seating and good after-sales service are my top priorities. I am not particularly interested in fancy features that I may rarely use; essential safety and convenience features are more than sufficient. Considering my high monthly running, which fuel type, petrol, diesel or CNG, would be the most economical and practical choice over 10–12 years? Please recommend the best cars and specific variants within my budget, comparing their real-world mileage, running costs, maintenance expenses, reliability and family comfort. For CNG options, I would particularly like an assessment of factory-fitted underbody CNG tanks and their practicality for long-term ownership. Please suggest suitable options in both petrol and CNG, and explain which car, engine and fuel option you would personally choose for my usage, keeping long-term ownership costs and reliability in mind.

Given your exceptionally high monthly running, the Maruti Suzuki Brezza VXI CNG would be our recommendation. It offers a good combination of cabin space, comfortable seating, practicality and low running costs. The factory-fitted underbody CNG tank is a particularly useful feature, as it preserves most of the boot space instead of taking up the luggage area. The VXi should also fit comfortably within your Rs 12 lakh on-road target, without having to stretch your budget for features you may rarely use.

Maruti Suzuki Brezza

With a budget of Rs 23–24 lakh, should I consider the Hyundai Alcazar Turbo Petrol DCT or the Kia Seltos GTX Petrol, comparing both the IVT and DCT options? My annual driving is approximately 6,000–7,000 km, and I would like a detailed comparison focusing on long-term ownership over 10–15 years, reliability, maintenance costs, transmission durability, fuel efficiency and overall value for money. I would also like to understand the practical differences between Hyundai’s K2 and Kia’s K3 platforms, particularly in terms of structural strength, safety, ride comfort, handling and long-term durability. Given my relatively low annual usage and preference for hassle-free ownership, which car and transmission combination would make the most sense within my budget?

Our top recommendation is the Kia Seltos GTX Petrol IVT. It is likely to be the most sensible combination of performance, comfort, running costs and long-term mechanical simplicity for your usage.The Hyundai Alcazar Turbo DCT is tempting because of its larger cabin, more powerful engine and three-row practicality. However, unless you regularly need the third row, I don't think it offers enough additional value to justify choosing it over the Seltos.There is also an important distinction between the Seltos IVT and DCT: for your relatively low annual mileage and long ownership horizon, I'd favour the IVT even though the DCT is considerably more engaging.The Seltos has moved to the new K3 platform in its second generation, while the Alcazar continues on the K2 architecture. Interestingly, the K3 platform's biggest practical advantage might not be structural strength but its overall refinement. It absorbs bumps more effectively than the previous generation while retaining good body control and high-speed stability.All things considered, the Seltos in its IVT guise makes for a better buy.

Kia Seltos

Hyundai Alcazar

Following up on my earlier question, I have now shortlisted two cars: the new Audi Q3 and the Mercedes-Benz C 220d. I am equally comfortable with an SUV or a sedan, so the body style is not a deciding factor for me. Power, engine refinement and seating comfort are my key priorities, along with long-term maintenance costs and resale value. I am also an enthusiastic driver who tends to push the car even in city conditions, so I would prefer something nimble and engaging to drive. Considering all these factors, which of the two would you recommend?

The Audi Q3 would be better since power, engine refinement and comfort are a priority. The Mercedes-Benz C-Class 220d is lower, does not have the soft setup of the Audi and its diesel engine isn't as punchy. The Q3 is great fun to drive and responds well to enthusiastic driving. The Q3 is also the newer of the two and gets a fresh and modern cabin. It might be an SUV in form but drives more like a hatchback. We would recommend the Q3 over the C220d.

Audi Q3

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

•2d

In the Konarc S 161, we get a 450W charger, while the Konarc S 100 comes with a charging cable. I would like to know whether the top-spec Konarc S 161 comes with both the charging cable and the 450W charger as separate accessories. This would allow us to use the charging cable independently when we do not wish to use the 450W charger. Could you please clarify?

The Konarc is the first Ather electric scooter debut an on-board charger - a 450W unit. No matter which variant you choose, the Konarc comes with this tech as standard. There is also onle one charging socket available and whether you use just the cable to charge the scooter via the onboard charger or the 450W offboard charger + the 450W onboard charger, you plug the scooter in the same way. The top Konarc S 161 that you're eyeing will come with the onboard charger and 450W offboard charger as standard and you have the option to charge it using both. If you use just the onboard charger, your charging speed will be slower, but if you use both, then it will effectively take half the time for the same amount of charge. We have a short video explaining this and would encourage you to take a look to clear any doubts you may have: https://www.instagram.com/reel/Dcp-yxySTCs/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&srtk=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

Ather Konarc

Hi Team Autocar, I am looking to buy a car within a budget of Rs 30 lakh. Initially, I was considering the MG Tomahawk PHEV, but delays in its availability have made me explore other options. I have also considered the Tata Sierra, Tata Safari and a few other models. My primary objective is to buy a recently launched 5 or 7-seater in its top-spec variant, with the best possible interiors, safety features and comfort equipment. I can stretch my budget to a maximum on-road price of Rs 32 lakh. I am open to petrol and hybrid options, although I may prefer a diesel given my annual running. However, concerns about diesel vehicle restrictions in Delhi after 10 years are making me reconsider that choice. My usage is primarily in Delhi traffic, with a daily commute of around 45-50 km that involves spending nearly 3-4 hours in the car. I also undertake weekend trips of approximately 400 km. Considering my requirements and usage, could you please suggest one or two suitable options? Thanks in advance.

We would shortlist the Mahindra XUV 7XO and Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid. Both offer a strong combination of space, comfort and features, while allowing you to avoid the uncertainty surrounding long-term diesel ownership in Delhi.The Mahindra XUV 7XO petrol automatic AX7T would be the more sensible choice within your Rs 32 lakh on-road budget. It offers a modern, feature-rich cabin, three rows of seating, strong performance from its 203hp turbo-petrol engine and a comfortable ride. The AX7T also gets ventilated seats, a Harman Kardon audio system and Level 2 ADAS, making it a good fit for long hours in Delhi traffic as well as weekend highway trips. If you can stretch your budget, consider the Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid VX. Its strong-hybrid powertrain is particularly well suited to your daily stop-start commute, offering excellent fuel efficiency and a relaxed driving experience. It also has a more spacious and comfortable cabin, especially for passengers in the second and third rows. However, in your budget you will get the VX or the VX(O) and not the top of the line ZX(O) variant.

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Toyota Innova HyCross

I am looking for a petrol or diesel car priced under Rs 9 lakh. My monthly running is around 1,500km, with most of the driving being within the city.

Since your monthly driving isn't all that high, a petrol car would be a better bet. For the city, the Maruti Suzuki Baleno is a very good option to consider. It is easy to drive, has good space in the rear, good tech and features and the powertrain is frugal. The efficiency is a Maruti highlight and the maintenance costs are low too. You simply cannot go wrong with a Maruti for your needs. The Delta variant would fit in your budget, but if you stretch a bit more, you can get the Zeta that gets most of the essential creature comforts. If the Baleno is a bit of a stretch, the Swift would be the next best choice. It is more affordable and while the size is compact, it is perfect for the city.

Maruti Suzuki Baleno

Maruti Suzuki Swift

•4d

I am looking for a secondary car, which I plan to keep for only two to three years. My daily running is around 90km, with roughly 50% of the route covering city roads and the other 50% on highways. Should I consider a new or a used car? I am open to both options.

Since you already own a Ford EcoSport and you're looking for a secondary car, with a daily usage of 90km, we'd suggest you pick a diesel car with strong and efficient performance for your mixed (city and highway) use. That said, with a Rs 5 lakh budget, your options are limited to diesel models older than 5 years, which shouldn't be a problem since you've mentioned that you'll keep this car only for 2-3 years.We'd suggest you narrow down your search to the newest pre-owned diesel hatchback that you can find. Keep the Tata Altroz 1.5 diesel as your top choice for its excellent driving manners, spacious cabin, lengthy equipment list, and efficient engine. You should get multiple options of the Altroz. Other strong contenders are the diesel iterations of the 2019-2020 VW Polo and 2020-2021 Hyundai i20, but finding these models in that price range will be a challenge.

Tata Altroz

•3d

Which car is better between Tomahawk and vinfast vf7

The Vinfast VF7 is sportier to drive, with stronger performance and more engaging driving dynamics. On the other hand, the Tomahawk is more comfort-oriented, with supportive seats, a spacious cabin, and the flexibility of a third row. It is also larger, yet it is more efficient than the VF7, resulting in better real-world range.As a spacious family car, the MG Hector Tomahawk EV is the better car. However, if you enjoy driving, pick the VinFast VF7.

MG Hector Tomahawk EV

Vinfast VF7

•2d

Is there a chance of a Nissan Tekton Hybrid coming?