I am planning to buy Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe 43, but I have heard that there will be a newer version of GLC 53 that might launch around February 2027 or later. Is it better to wait for the GLC 53 with 3-liter engine or stick with the current GLC 43 with 2 liter engine. Is it worth the wait considering the price increase that it will brings with 3-liter engine version while the performance numbers gets mild improvements when compared between them.

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•53m

Go for the Mahindra Scorpio N Z8T diesel manual. It is the right choice for your usage and budget. The Z8L's main differentiator is ADAS, which you have already identified as something you do not need. The Z8T gives you the same core mechanical package, the same strong diesel engine, and the same RWD and body-on-frame DNA that you liked in the Hexa, without paying extra for features you will not use. The Scorpio N is also one of the few cars in this price range that still offers a proper RWD diesel manual setup, which is exactly what you are looking for.On the question of waiting, there is no clear reason to hold off. There are no major RWD diesel manual SUVs or MPVs expected in the next year that would fundamentally change your decision. This Mahindra car is already a well-established product with a proven ownership track record, and it is one of the few cars that still offers this kind of mechanical package.The only thing to keep in mind is that the Scorpio N is a body-on-frame SUV, so it will not be as refined or as comfortable as the Hexa on long highway runs and bumpy roads as the ride is quite bouncy. But if you are looking for a tough, reliable RWD diesel manual with a strong ownership track record, the Z8T is the right choice.

Mahindra Scorpio N

autocar.india

•3h

Go for the XUV 7XO AX7T diesel automatic. The diesel engine is well suited to your high running, and the automatic gearbox is a proven torque converter unit that is reliable and well matched to the engine. This Mahindra car will make your daily city driving far less tiring, while still being smooth and efficient on the highway. Coming from a 15-year-old Hyundai Verna diesel manual, the automatic will feel like a significant upgrade in terms of comfort and ease of use, without compromising on long-term reliability. The manual is still a good option if you strongly prefer the engagement, but for your usage and ownership horizon, the automatic is the smarter choice.

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Hyundai Verna

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•2h

The Hyundai Creta petrol automatic is a very sensible choice for your usage pattern. The 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine paired with the IVT (CVT) automatic is smooth, refined and well-suited to city driving, making daily commutes effortless. For occasional long trips of 500-700 km, the Creta is comfortable, stable and easy to drive, with a relaxed cruising nature and a well-sorted ride. Fuel efficiency is decent for a midsize petrol automatic SUV, with our testing recording 13.11 kpl overall, with 15.05kpl on the highway and significantly lower figures in heavy city traffic. A realistic expectation would be around 10-12kpl in the city and 13-15kpl on the highway, depending on driving style and conditions. In terms of long-term ownership, Hyundai’s strong service network, reasonable maintenance costs, and proven reliability make the Creta a safe bet. The S (O) variant strikes a good balance between essential features and value, and the overall package is well-rounded. The only thing to keep in mind is that this Hyundai car is due for a full generation change in 2027, so if you are not in a hurry, it may be worth waiting. Otherwise, it remains one of the most dependable and hassle-free choices in the segment.

Hyundai Creta