I want to upgrade from my existing Brezza diesel. My budget is around ₹20-23 lakh, and I am considering the XEV 9S or Tata Sierra. Please advise whether I should go for an EV or stick with a petrol or diesel vehicle like the Harrier or Safari. My monthly running is about 2,000 km, with roughly half of it on highways.

Autocar India

•1d

Since you have a Tata Safari, we assume you want the smaller car primarily for city use, and interior space or highway stability would not be that high on the priority list. Thus, we would suggest the Skoda Kylaq. Measuring under 4 meters in length, it is easy to manage in crowded cities, and the 1.0-litre engine is peppy enough. Importantly, it comes with the option of a torque convertor gearbox, which is the smoothest type to have and something you will appreciate in stop-and-go traffic. If it's a sedan, then check out the Honda Amaze. This too is under 4 meters in length, has light and easy controls, and while the automatic isn't a torque convertor. It has a CVT autobox, which is still the better option to have than an automated manual (AMT).

Tata Safari

Skoda Kylaq

Honda Amaze

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Autocar India

•1d

The cars you have shortlisted are very different, but based on your usage and your mileage requirement, we would suggest going for the Kia Seltos with the 1.5 litre naturally aspirated engine paired to the IVT automatic.The new Seltos has grown in size compared to the previous generation, which not only improves interior space, comfort and boot capacity, but also gives it better road presence. While it lacks outright punch, for most real world conditions and sedate driving it has more than enough performance, both in the city and on the highway. The biggest strength of this powertrain is its refinement and smoothness, which makes the Seltos a pleasure to drive, especially in urban conditions. In terms of mileage, the Seltos with this engine and gearbox should come close to your requirement of 12 kmpl or more, something the other two cars are unlikely to achieve. You can get the HTK(O) variant in your budget which is well loaded with features too.The Tata Harrier petrol, on the other hand, is larger and has more presence, but it is also more expensive. In fact, the Harrier turbo petrol with the 6 speed automatic costs over Rs 20 lakh on road, which is more than Rs 2 lakh over your budget. Fuel efficiency will also be lower than the Kia’s, as the Harrier is heavier, more powerful, and turbo petrol engines are generally more sensitive to throttle inputs.This issue is even more pronounced in the Mahindra Scorpio N. It is the heaviest car here, uses a large turbo petrol engine producing over 200 PS, and while it delivers effortless performance, efficiency takes a hit. Being based on a ladder frame chassis, it is more rugged, but for everyday use it won’t be as comfortable as the other two. If you want to buy a Mahindra, we would suggest looking at the new 7XO instead, as it is more practical, more comfortable, and will also be more fuel efficient.

Kia Seltos

Tata Harrier

Mahindra Scorpio N

Mahindra XUV 7XO

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Autocar India

•2d

The XEV 9S is an electric car, while the Safari petrol is an ICE vehicle, and the two serve very different needs and requirements.The Mahindra XEV 9S has a strong electric powertrain that delivers an ultra smooth driving experience with very low running costs. It is easier to drive than the Safari and works better as a city vehicle. However, for long trips involving distances of over 400 km, you would need to rely on public charging, which isn’t always convenient.The Tata Safari petrol is also smooth to drive, but it is costlier to run and maintain. That said, it is more practical, offers much better third row seating, and gives you the flexibility of refuelling anywhere, making it the more stress free option for long journeys.

Tata Safari

Mahindra XEV 9S

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