Hi, I currently own a Hyundai Elantra CRDi (2012) and I’m planning to change it. I usually keep my cars for at least 10 years. My budget is ₹20 lakh and my annual running is about 12,000 km, including a daily run of 20 km. This time I want an automatic, so I’ve shortlisted the new Kia Seltos diesel HTE(O), Kia Carens Clavis EV, Hyundai Creta EV, or a used 2-year-old Tata Harrier or Mahindra XUV700.
I know these options are from different segments and power sources, and I’m open to that. My concern is that after 12 years of use, if I sell a diesel car, I might get only about ₹3 lakh, whereas if I buy an EV and use it for 12 years, won’t I get at least ₹2 lakh+ back while saving on fuel and service costs? I make a 350 km trip only twice a year, and both diesel and EV cars cost almost the same with EVs offering more features. I’m confused — isn’t it a good plan to go for an EV?

Question

Autocar India team · Accepted Answer

Since you are able to purchase a new Kia Seltos or Carens Clavis EV, we would suggest you not look at a used Tata Harrier or XUV700, as these are quite close in size, performance and features. If you are buying used, it makes sense to get something from two segments above.

As to your query about a diesel or electric, yes, both are not likely to have a high resale value. There's certainly a cloud over diesel's long term future, and the pre-owned EV market is too nascent to judge future potential.

We would, however, recommend the EV as you will be keeping your car for about 10 years, and in that time with your running you would save on fuel bills. Between the Hyundai Creta electric and the Clavis EV, we would suggest the Kia as it's very similar mechanically. But also offers you the benefit of the third row of seats, which is quite spacious and usable.

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