Hello, I am planning to upgrade my 2019 Kia Seltos GTX Plus petrol manual to a more premium SUV. I was considering the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA, but after the launch of the Tiguan R-Line, I really liked it. My only concern is the price since it is a CBU. After the GST revision, I was able to get a deal for ₹52 lakh on road. I would like your advice on whether I should go ahead and buy it. My concerns are whether I will get enough support from VW India regarding parts, and also the resale value. Kindly advise.

Autocar India

•3d

4WD SUVs are getting rarer by the day, but given what you're looking for, the best fit is the Mahindra Thar Roxx. For the price, it feels the closest to your Endeavour in the stuff that matters - proper 4x4 with low range, generous ground clearance even when loaded, and a strong 2.2-litre diesel that responds eagerly. The Roxx's new-gen chassis is Mahindra's best ladder frame yet, soaking up rough roads without breaking a sweat and handling highway duties reasonably well too. It's also gotten a lot more liveable than previous Thars, with genuine space, premium feel and creature comforts.There's the Jeep Compass and Meridian too, but their interiors won't feel spacious enough after your Endeavour, and on the other end are the MG Majestor and Toyota Fortuner, though those are likely to be out of budget. Of the petrols, the Kodiaq is probably the best AWD bet, but as you said, it is too expensive. A few-year-old example of any of these, however, might be a good option.On diesel in NCR, it might still make sense, if you can make your peace with the 10-year cap - and the associated resale value hit. You may see the odd winter restriction put into place, but new BS6 diesels have generally been clear of those. It's not an easy decision, but if it's for a car you'll enjoy, and you can work out a shorter ownership cycle that suits your needs, it can still work.

Mahindra Thar Roxx

Jeep Compass

Jeep Meridian

MG Majestor

Toyota Fortuner

Skoda Kodiaq

Autocar India

•4h

With a daily running of 150-200km, a strong hybrid makes the most sense. Within your budget, the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Strong Hybrid or the Toyota Hyryder Strong Hybrid would be the top recommendations.Both deliver excellent real-world fuel efficiency, often exceeding 20kpl even in city conditions, while offering the convenience of a petrol powertrain and lower maintenance concerns compared to modern diesels. For high-mileage users, the fuel savings can be substantial over time.While the diesel Kia Seltos remains a capable SUV, modern diesels are not quite as efficient as they once were due to stricter emissions equipment. This is especially true in automatic variants, where the torque converter gearbox further reduces the efficiency advantage over hybrids.As for the Seltos GTX(O), there is currently no confirmation of a new GTX(O) variant arriving in the immediate future.

Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara

Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder

Kia Seltos

Autocar India

•8h

The Kia Seltos HTK(O) 1.5 Petrol CVT would be the pick here. It feels more premium than the Elevate, offers a comfortable ride and the smooth CVT suits everyday driving extremely well.As for performance, the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol is essentially the same engine that powers your Creta. If you are happy with your current car's performance, there is no reason to worry about the Seltos feeling underpowered. It may not be the quickest SUV in the segment, but it is smooth, refined and well-suited to relaxed driving.The Skoda Kushaq 1.0 AT feels punchier in the mid-range and is more enjoyable to drive, but the Seltos is the more rounded package overall. The Honda Elevate CVT is comfortable and practical, though it does not feel as premium inside.

Kia Seltos

Honda Elevate

Hyundai Creta

Skoda Kushaq