Hi Autocar India team, I would really appreciate your expert guidance, as I'm confused between three Mahindra options: the XUV 7XO AX5 Diesel Automatic, the XUV 7XO AX5 Petrol Automatic, and the XEV 9S. My driving pattern consists mainly of 30-40 km per day, almost entirely within Chandigarh city. I do take occasional highway trips, but the majority of my driving is in city traffic. My biggest priorities are low running costs over the long term, reliability and hassle-free ownership, good drivability in city traffic, and choosing a vehicle that I can comfortably keep for the next 7-10 years. I have a few questions. First, is a modern diesel automatic a sensible choice for someone who drives only 30-40 km a day in the city? I've heard concerns about DPF regeneration and whether diesel vehicles are suitable for predominantly urban driving. Would my daily usage be enough to avoid such issues? Second, if my driving pattern remains the same, would you recommend the XUV 7XO Diesel Automatic over the Petrol Automatic, or would the petrol variant be the better long-term choice? I've also been reading discussions suggesting that diesel fuel could gradually see higher blends of isobutanol or other biofuels in the future, similar to how ethanol blending has increased in petrol. Is this something buyers should genuinely be concerned about over the next 7-10 years, or is it unlikely to affect the reliability and longevity of modern diesel engines? From this perspective, would you still consider a diesel vehicle a safe long-term investment? I also really like the Mahindra XEV 9S because of its low running costs, smooth driving experience, and the convenience of home charging. My only concern is the availability of charging infrastructure during outstation trips. Although most of my driving is within the city, I do take occasional long-distance journeys and wouldn't want to feel restricted by charging availability. Considering my usage and priorities, which of these three would you recommend: the XUV 7XO AX5 Petrol Automatic, the XUV 7XO AX5 Diesel Automatic, or the Mahindra XEV 9S? If you were buying a vehicle for yourself with the same driving pattern and planned to keep it for the next 7-10 years, which one would you choose, and why? Looking forward to your expert advice. Thank you!

autocar.india

•6d

Since your choice is between these two exact models, go for the Tata Harrier EV Fearless Plus 75kWh at Rs 22 lakh on-road. It is a much better value proposition given the Rs. 5-6 lakh savings over the Mahindra XEV 9S. The Harrier EV is a solidly-built, hardy SUV that's comfy for 5 adults and their luggage.Sure, the XEV 9S gives you the flexibility of three-rows of seating; a lighter steering with a tighter turning radius; and with a larger battery and a more efficient electric powertrain, real-world range will be better. But since you don't specifically need a three-row SUV, the Harrier EV's lower price makes it the more sensible buy.

Tata Harrier EV

Mahindra XEV 9S

autocar.india

•5d

With 70% city driving, the Honda Amaze is actually a very sensible choice. The CVT automatic is smooth and easy to drive in traffic. The engine is reliable, and the car’s compact dimensions make it easy to manoeuvre and park.The only real drawback is that the engine is not particularly torquey, so it can feel a bit flat on highways or when fully loaded. However, for predominantly city use, that is not a major concern. The ground clearance at 172 mm is adequate for most urban conditions, but a fully loaded car can cause the rear suspension to compress significantly, requiring caution over large speed breakers. If you like the Honda Amaze petrol automatic for what it offers, go for it.

Honda Amaze

autocar.india

•3d

Go for the Mahindra XUV 3XO Edge automatic. The Brezza VXi automatic is a safe, simple and reliable choice, but the 3XO is the better fit for your requirements. It offers a wider cabin, more space and a more premium feel, which your family clearly values. The TCMPFi engine is a turbocharged petrol unit and is fundamentally a sound engine. It is not a new or unproven powertrain, and Mahindra has had time to refine it. It is also paired with a 6-speed torque converter automatic, which is a proven and reliable gearbox type. Compared to the Nexon’s Revotron engine, the 3XO’s powertrain is more refined and the gearbox is smoother and more conventional in its operation. The Brezza’s naturally aspirated petrol engine is simpler and will likely be marginally more reliable over a very long ownership period, but the 3XO’s engine is not something to worry about from a reliability perspective. Given your family’s preference for space and the more premium feel, the 3XO is the better choice.

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Maruti Suzuki Brezza