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Mohandas

5w

Hi Autocar! I submitted my question previously, but haven’t seen it published even after a week, so I’m asking again. I am planning to upgrade my 2014 Honda City CVT, mainly due to lower petrol mileage caused by ethanol blending and because I can currently get good resale value. I want to move to a mid-size SUV petrol automatic. My usage is mostly city driving, with about 10% highway use. I also make frequent airport trips due to extended family visits, which is why I am considering a mid-size SUV or MPV. My budget is around ₹18 lakh, and I do not want to stretch it. I am focused on petrol efficiency and want either a hybrid or an electric vehicle. Are the Toyota Hybrid and MG Windsor the best options? Would it be worth waiting until the end of this year or even 2027 for more hybrid or EV options, especially MPVs? I know the Renault Duster Hybrid is being hyped with a large hybrid battery, so I'm wondering if I should make a purchase now with a better resale value for my old car, or take a hit on the resale value of my old car and wait till 2027 for new hybrids.

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
4w
Since you're looking at hybrid or EV options only, with a budget of Rs 18 lakh, you could consider the MG Windsor EV. It has a spacious cabin and a large boot, which you are likely to appreciate, particularly during your frequent airport trips. If you opt for the standard range version, you can expect around 230-260km of real-world range, while the 'Pro' version could get you an additional range of over 100km. While it is largely a very practical car, its biggest downside is that even for basic functions, such as mirror adjustment, lights, sunshade, etc., you have to rely on its touchscreen. However, with time, you will get used to this.
If you're not in a hurry, you could wait for the Renault Duster hybrid that'll be launched in the second half of this year. Besides being a hybrid, it is likely to have a noticeably larger boot than the existing hybrid cars on sale, namely the Hyryder, Grand Vitara and Victoris. However, there are high chances that you might have to stretch your budget for its hybrid variant.
MG Windsor

MG Windsor

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NA

Nano

2d

I am looking for an upgrade. Does it make sense to buy the 3XO, coming from a Honda City? Please suggest. (Also open to other options)

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
1d

If an upgrade necessarily means a larger car for you, the Mahindra 3XO won't be the right move after a Honda City. You'd be best served by midsized SUVs, which measure between 4.3 and 4.5m. Of the current crop of mid-sized SUVs, the Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta and Tata Sierra are the best-rounded. The new-gen Renault Duster that launches on March 17 also has promise.If vehicle size isn't a dealbreaker, the Mahindra XUV 3XO is a good pick. It's got powerful petrol engines, feels solid, and ride and handling are also impressive. The interior is also spacious for what is a compact SUV, and higher-spec versions pack in loads of equipment too. In fact, a fully-loaded 3XO is better equipped than a fully-loaded City.Within the compact SUV segment, you could also consider the Hyundai Venue, which is a well-rounded package.

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GS

Gaurav Sapra

4d

Hi, looking for a car with a daily run of 50-60km. I have shortlisted the Windsor Pro/Windsor and the VinFast VF6. I need to know their real-world range, and the car should be future-proof for the next 10 years.

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
2d

If you have the budget for it, opt for the MG Windsor Pro for its larger battery and its 377 km real-world range. Also, its bright seat upholstery looks more upmarket, and it also gets ADAS.The VF6's interiors feel even more premium, performance is stronger, and it is a nicer car to drive. Space, however, won't be as generous, and even though we haven't tested it yet, despite having a larger battery, it weighs a lot more. Hence, efficiency isn't likely to be too different from the Windsor Pro.In summary, if you are usually self-driven, opt for the VinFast VF6. Otherwise, for mixed usage or if you travel regularly with family, then the Windsor Pro is the better, more spacious option.

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Aditya

3d

My monthly running is 900 Km. I have shortlisted the Hyundai Creta petrol (on-road price of ₹20 lakh) and the Windsor Pro (on-road price of ₹20 lakh). Which one should I opt for?

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
2d

Without knowing more about your usage and requirements, it is hard to give you the ideal pick. Broadly speaking, the Hyundai Creta petrol is the more rounded package. It's a proven product with a user-friendly and spacious interior and a pleasant driving experience. If you are open to the Creta petrol, it's worth your while to check the new Kia Seltos, which is newer, roomier and more feature-packed.The MG Windsor Pro entices with keen pricing, an airy cabin and a sofa-like rear seat. However, there is a learning curve to the Windsor experience because many of the key controls are via the touchscreen. Also, while your usage doesn't suggest you'll have an issue, EVs work best if you have the option to install a charger at home.

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Posted on: 7 Feb 2026