I planning to buy Defender CKD. I feel that P300 is slightly underpowered for my requirements which include long touring with two hitch rack for 2-3 bicycles and for photography and camping equipment. I need your help for deciding between a D350 or P400. While the D350 is a very capable engine, I am not sure about the long term viability of diesel engines in India. What is your take?

autocar.india

•6h

With a daily running of around 100km, switching to a diesel SUV makes sense, and we would suggest looking at the Kia Seltos diesel and Mahindra XUV 7XO diesel automatic. However, don't assume that a larger diesel SUV will automatically reduce your monthly fuel bill significantly.The Mahindra XUV 7XO diesel automatic is a great upgrade if you want more space, performance and comfort. Its 2.2-litre diesel engine produces 185hp and 450Nm, and returned 13.1kpl in Autocar India's real-world tests. However, given its size and weight, your monthly fuel expenditure may not reduce dramatically compared to your Creta petrol. The Kia Seltos diesel, on the other hand, will be more economical to run and is also a refined SUV with a premium cabin. It will feel more spacious than your Creta, although it cannot match the XUV 7XO for outright cabin space and performance.

autocar.india

•1h

With 70km a day, mostly on the highway, and free charging at your office, the Punch EV 40kWh is the clear choice. At roughly 1,800km a month, the Punch CNG would cost you around Rs 6,000-7,000 a month in fuel, while your daily running in the EV costs next to nothing. That saving more than makes up for the EV's higher price over a few years. The EV is also the better car to drive. It's quicker, much quieter and far more relaxed at highway speeds than the CNG, which feels strained when fully loaded.

autocar.india

•3h

If your budget allows it, go for the Maruti Suzuki Brezza VXi. The 1.5 litre petrol engine is refined and delivers enough performance for effortless everyday driving and highway trips. The cabin is wider and more spacious than the Tata Punch’s, making the Brezza a better family car, especially for long term use. The VXi is also reasonably well equipped, so you don't have to stretch to a higher variant to get the essentials. Maruti’s extensive service network and generally affordable maintenance are further advantages if stress free ownership is a priority.The Tata Punch Adventure MT is easier to manage in tight city spaces and makes sense if you want to save Rs 1.2 lakh. However, the Brezza feels like a step up in cabin space, performance and overall usability. For a family car you intend to keep for many years, the extra money for the Brezza is worth spending.