I currently own a premium hatchback (Baleno) and want to upgrade to an automatic SUV, but I’m unsure which model suits me best. My priorities are strong engine performance, seating comfort and legroom, and reasonable fuel efficiency (about 12-14 km/l in Bangalore city). My budget is ₹15-20 lakh. Which reliable brands and models offer low maintenance costs while meeting these requirements?

Autocar India

•12w

Expecting 12-14kpl in peak Bangalore traffic from an automatic SUV is a bit optimistic, and if you really want that kind of efficiency, you will have to look at diesel alternatives.

Consider a Kia Sonet or Hyundai Venue diesel AT for its smooth transmission and refined diesel engine. The Tata Nexon diesel is efficient too, although its AMT isn't as smooth as its Korean rivals.

Explore cars mentioned

Kia

Sonet

from ₹8.30 Lakh

Hyundai

New Venue

Tata

Nexon

from ₹8.32 Lakh

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Latest questions people are discussing

Anushank

•17h

I am planning to sell my Mahindra XUV500 as it is nearing the end of its registration validity in Delhi NCR, and I want to buy a 5-seater SUV under ₹10 lakh. My preference is for a fuel-efficient car as my daily running is around 100 km, but it should also be spacious enough for five people. Since fuel efficiency is a priority, I am open to both CNG and diesel cars. My usage will be 70% city and 30% highway, mostly within Delhi NCR. I have narrowed my choices to the Maruti Brezza CNG, Tata Nexon CNG, Kia Sonet Diesel, and Maruti Fronx CNG. Please help me evaluate which would be the better option. I am also open to any other better option if available.

Autocar India

•32m

The Maruti Brezza CNG and Fronx CNG will be more fuel efficient than the Nexon iCNG, and their clutch and gearbox make them friendlier to drive, too. The Brezza is due for a facelift in the coming weeks, so you might want to wait for that to arrive. The Kia Sonet diesel will feel punchier to drive (than the CNG options listed above), while being very efficient too. Also, by opting for a diesel, you won't need to wait in long queues to refill CNG. Even the Sonet is due for a generation update, which is likely to be launched this year. Another option you could consider is the Mahindra XUV 3XO diesel MX2, which is more spacious than a Sonet. Its ride-handling balance is very impressive; the Sonet, however, has an edge in terms of fuel efficiency.

Hardik

I am confused between the Punch CNG automatic and the Nexon CNG. Since the Punch is available with an automatic and almost all the same features as the Nexon, should I go for the automatic comfort with the Punch, or will the Nexon still be a better choice?

Autocar India

•6h

Go for the Tata Punch CNG AMT. Not only will you benefit from the low running costs of a CNG, but you also have the convenience of clutch pedal-free driving. Additionally, the Punch's NA engine will be more efficient than the Nexon's turbo unit.Although performance won't be as strong as the Tata Nexon, as a point A-to-B city commuter, the Punch CNG AMT is hard to beat. So, unless you need the extra space or performance, pick the Punch CNG AMT.

Tata Punch

Tata Nexon

Vishal Maniar

•3d

I am planning to buy a compact SUV with a diesel automatic gearbox, and my budget is around ₹12–14 lakh on-road. I generally prefer choosing the variant just above the base model, as it usually offers the best value for money rather than going for the top-spec variant. My shortlisted options are the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, and Kia Sonet. While value for money is my main priority, my child is insisting that the car should also have a sunroof. Considering these requirements, which car would you recommend buying?

Autocar India

•2d

While the Tata Nexon has its strengths in a tough build and good suspension, its AMT gearbox is no match for the torque converter automatic. It comes paired with the Hyundai Venue and Kia Sonet's 1.5-litre diesel engine. The Hyundai and Kia's smooth diesel engines and slick auto gearboxes deliver a very polished driving experience, which you will love. Of the two, the Hyundai Venue is newer, offers more rear seat space and a few more frills like a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen. You'd get a Venue diesel-auto HX5 in your budget, which is reasonably well equipped and also packs in a sunroof. We can't recommend it wholeheartedly, though, because it misses the safety of a rear wiper. If rear seat space isn't a deal breaker and you are comfortable with the idea of buying a car that will be replaced in the near future, the Sonet diesel-auto HTX is definitely worth a look. For not much money over the Venue HX5, it packs in a whole lot more equipment such as LED headlights, push button start, leatherette seats and front seat ventilation. Also, it has the safety of a rear wiper, rear disc brakes and front parking sensors.

Tata Nexon

Kia Sonet

Hyundai Venue

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