I'm 36 years old and currently own a Kia Seltos petrol automatic. My annual running is around 10,000-11,000 km, with about 20% city driving and 80% long highway trips, typically covering 600-1,000 km in a single journey. I'm now looking to buy a 7-seater SUV and am confused between the Mahindra XUV 7XO diesel automatic and petrol automatic. I'm also wondering if I should consider the Mahindra XEV 9S, given the push towards EVs However, I feel that doing 800km one-way trips in an EV could be difficult, especially since the charging infrastructure still doesn't seem adequate. What would you recommend?

autocar.india

•5d

For your father, the Maruti Suzuki Brezza petrol automatic is the most sensible recommendation. At 65, ease of use, reliability and low maintenance are far more important than outright performance or flashy features. The Brezza’s naturally aspirated petrol engine is simple, proven and well-suited to a 30-40 km daily commute, while the automatic gearbox makes city driving effortless. Maruti’s service network is the best in the country, which means low running costs and peace of mind over the long term.This Maruti Suzuki car also has enough ground clearance and a robust suspension setup to handle occasional farm visits without any fuss. It is not the most exciting car in the segment, but it is comfortable, easy to drive and built for hassle-free ownership. At Rs 15 lakh, it is one of the most dependable choices you can make for your father. Since the Brezza facelift is just around the corner, you can wait for that or try to get a good deal on the outgoing model.

Maruti Suzuki Brezza

autocar.india

•4d

The Maruti Suzuki Celerio is the best fit for your requirements. It is one of the most fuel-efficient petrol cars in the segment, has a proven ownership track record, and Maruti's service network ensures low maintenance costs over the long term. The 1.0-litre petrol engine is simple, reliable and well-suited to both city use and occasional highway runs. You even have the option of an AMT automatic for greater convenience. If you are open to CNG cars, the Celerio CNG is also worth considering, as it will significantly reduce running costs on your longer trips. The only drawback is that the Celerio is a compact hatchback, so if you regularly carry more passengers or luggage, you may want to look at the Maruti Suzuki Wagon R instead, which offers more space while retaining the same low maintenance and reliability advantages. Overall, the Celerio strikes the best balance between fuel efficiency, reliability and low ownership costs for your usage pattern.

Maruti Suzuki Celerio

Maruti Suzuki Wagon R

autocar.india

•6d

With a daily commute of 85 km, your running is very high, so fuel efficiency and running costs become the most important factor. At the same time, you already own a Baleno and an Accent, so this car should feel like a meaningful upgrade in terms of comfort, space and overall ownership experience.The best option for your usage is the Maruti Suzuki Victoris Hybrid. The hybrid system delivers excellent fuel efficiency in city and highway conditions, and the petrol engine ensures long-term reliability and low maintenance costs. The Victoris is also a very comfortable and spacious car, making it well-suited for long daily commutes. The hybrid system of the Maruti Suzuki car is particularly effective in stop-and-go traffic, where it can significantly reduce fuel consumption.If you are open to diesel, the Mahindra XUV 7XO diesel is also a strong option. It is a larger and more powerful SUV with excellent highway performance and a comfortable ride.Overall, the Maruti Suzuki Victoris Hybrid is the best fit for your needs. It offers the right balance of fuel efficiency, comfort, reliability and ownership experience for a high-mileage daily commuter.

Maruti Suzuki Baleno

Maruti Suzuki Victoris

Mahindra XUV 7XO