I am currently using the Kia Seltos HTX 1.5L petrol (2023 model). It is almost 3 years old and has run around 35,000km. Now, my running is significantly higher than before. Should I sell my petrol car and go for the 1.5L diesel Seltos automatic? I also want all the features that are available in my current car. Is it worth upgrading from the petrol to the diesel engine?

autocar.india

•10h

All three options have their highlights. The Kushaq is the most enjoyable to drive, the Duster feels the most rugged, while the Seltos feels the plushest. Given your usage, we'd recommend the Skoda Kushaq 1.5 TSI DSG as the best pick. It's got the nicest gearbox, feels the peppiest, and will liven up your frequent highway drives. There is a firmness to the suspension, but it's not uncomfortable. The Skoda feels smaller than the others, and the positive to that is that it will put the driver at greater ease in congested city roads. On the flipside, the Kushaq isn't as spacious as the Duster or Seltos and is best thought of as a four-seater - the rear seat is not ideal for three passengers. If you want a more complete all-rounder, the Kia Seltos is a great pick. The DCT isn't the smoothest in town, though.

Skoda Kushaq

Renault Duster

Kia Seltos

autocar.india

•16h

The Tata Sierra AT will not fit your Rs. 15 lakh budget. Automatic versions of the Maruti Suzuki Victoris and Kia Seltos are just out of your budget but you can haggle so that you don't need to extend too much. Of the two, the Kia Seltos is the superior product. It's got a better engine and gearbox combo, packs in more feel good features (such as a 10.25-inch touchscreen and leatherette upholstery) and is significantly more spacious too. The Seltos IVT also delivers reasonable fuel economy. Maruti has a wider sales and service network but on most other fronts, the Kia comes across as the more wholesome choice.

Tata Sierra

Kia Seltos

Maruti Suzuki Victoris

autocar.india

•1d

Your reasons for choosing the Tata Sierra Pure+ DCA petrol make sense. For a family of four that mainly uses the car on weekends and for occasional road trips, the Sierra’s space and comfortable ride are significant advantages. You already like its looks, and that emotional factor matters when the car won’t be used daily; enjoyment every time you take it out is a valid consideration.Be aware that the 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol paired with the DCA feels rather sluggish, particularly when overtaking on highways. The gearbox shifts more slowly than more refined automatics, so acceleration can feel lethargic. In city driving and relaxed cruising, you’ll be fine, and the Sierra is comfortable for family outings and short trips. Because it’s a heavier vehicle, expect modest fuel efficiency; occasional future daily usage of 25–30 km won’t be a dealbreaker, but if you end up using it daily long-term, fuel costs will be noticeably higher.If you’re comfortable with a “lazy” automatic and prioritise space and ride comfort for family trips, stick with the Sierra. If you prefer a livelier driving experience and sharper on-road manners, consider alternatives such as the Kia Seltos with the 1.5L NA and CVT. It won’t match the Sierra for interior space or comfort, but it feels much nicer to drive.

Tata Sierra

Kia Seltos