Sir, my driving is mainly on highways. I take outstation trips of approximately 1,000 km every 2-3 months. I am planning to buy the XUV 7XO automatic. Considering the 10-year validity for diesel vehicles and the DPF clogging issue due to low running, should I go for the diesel or petrol variant? Your opinion will be very helpful.

autocar.india

•1d

Pick the Tata Safari 6-seat. It keeps the family happiest on long trips thanks to the comfiest ride and the most adult-friendly third row in this class. The suspension soaks bad roads, it stays settled at highway speeds, and the captain seats are wider with better thigh support. The third row sits a touch higher, has better recline and vents, so even two adults can manage a few hours without grumbling. Luggage space with all rows up is tight on both.Behind the wheel, the Safari is a relaxed mile muncher. The driving position is upright, visibility is great, seats are supportive, and the automatic is smooth. It is not the quickest to kick down, the engine is gruff and not as refined as the Mahindra, and there is some lag at low speeds, but on open roads, it cruises quietly. Coming from a Duster automatic, the ride upgrade is big.The Mahindra XUV 7XO AX7L is the sharper drive with a stronger diesel and snappier responses, and its ADAS feels better tuned. If you often climb hills fully loaded or love brisk overtakes, it makes life easier. For all-row comfort, choose the Safari.

Tata Safari

Renault Duster

Mahindra XUV 7XO

autocar.india

•2d

Pick the XUV 7XO diesel automatic for the better ride-handling balance. Over broken roads and big speed breakers, it stays calmer, and with five on board, it keeps its composure without that side-to-side bob you often feel in heavier SUVs. At highway speeds, it tracks straight, the steering has a natural weight, and body control feels more reassuring when you need to change lanes or brake hard.The XEV 9e does feel flatter through bends thanks to the battery’s low position, so quick direction changes are tidy, but its extra weight makes sharp edges and patchy city tarmac come through more firmly, and the braking feel is less consistent. On a long drive with family and bags, the Mahindra diesel’s suspension tuning feels more relaxed and confident.One caveat. In city traffic, the XEV 9e is quieter and smoother, so if most of your 10-15k km each year are short urban runs, you might enjoy that. But for mixed use as a five-seater, the XUV 7XO rides better and feels more secure.

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Mahindra XEV 9e

autocar.india

•2h

Go for the Kia Carens Clavis - your budget will get you a mid-spec HTE EX, which is well equipped with all the essentials, seats 7, and has a genuinely usable third row. About the Hyundai Stargazer, there is no official India launch confirmation, so we wouldn't advise waiting for it. In fact, the Stargazer shares its K2 platform and 1.5 NA powertrain with the Clavis, so you're not really missing out.One thing to note about the Clavis: while the 1.5 NA is a refined and efficient engine, it may feel underpowered when the vehicle is fully loaded. If you are frequently travelling on highways with a full load, the 1.5 turbo will make overtaking a lot easier. The turbo-petrol also brings with it the option of a DCT, should you want one.If you were eyeing the Citroen Aircross automatic for more space and power, it does give you that and usually still fits within your budget. However, Citroen's dealer network is thin, and resale values are weak, so only pick it if you have a strong nearby dealer and plan to keep the car for a long time.

Kia Carens Clavis

Citroen Aircross