My monthly running is 500km or less, with one long tour every 3 to 6 months of around 1,200 to 1,300km to and fro. I am confused between the petrol automatic versions of the Tata Sierra, Mahindra 7XO, and the upcoming Kia Seltos. All three fall within my budget. My priorities are safety and fuel efficiency. Kindly advise.

Autocar India

•1d

At 500-700km monthly, your usage isn't much to start with, hence opting for a CNG vehicle won't lead to significant financial benefit. Still, the Tata Nexon iCNG will have the lowest running costs, and if you don't mind a smaller car, that belongs to a segment lower compared to the Honda Elevate and Kia Seltos, go for it.The Elevate will seem very familiar, as it has the same powertrain as your City, and what works in its favour are its comfy seats and excellent ride quality. Do note, the Elevate won't be as efficient as your City on account of its shorter gearing and heavier kerb weight.The Kia Seltos is the most expensive here, but it also feels the most modern and refined. If you can stretch your budget, this is the one we'd recommend.

Tata Nexon

Honda Elevate

Kia Seltos

Autocar India

•2d

The Kia Seltos is the better pick. It is a generation newer than the Creta currently on sale, and comes with the benefits of a larger body, roomier cabin, better refinement, as well as the promise of better safety. The Seltos is a well put together package and feels richer than a like-priced Hyundai Creta. Do note, the next-gen Hyundai Creta goes on sale by early 2027 and will offer the same strengths as the Kia. If you are not in a rush to buy a new SUV, we'd suggest you wait for the new Creta and take a call on the right one for you then. In case you need to buy one soon, go for the Seltos. It gives you more for your buck.

Kia Seltos

Autocar India

•3h

Since you want a 6 seater for your city-heavy use and you have a budget of up to Rs 30 lakh, the Mahindra XUV 7XO diesel automatic is what you should consider. Given that your running is fairly high, about 15,000km a year, a diesel would make sense, and it will be more efficient than the petrol. Mahindra's 2.2-litre diesel is refined and punchy, and the 6-speed torque converter automatic is smooth, making city drives stress-free. The 7XO has a comfy, premium cabin and can be had in either 6-seat (with captain's chairs in the middle) or 7-seat seating configurations. It also rides over speed breakers and broken roads with ease and comes absolutely loaded with features. Know this before you buy: the third row is best for kids or short adults on longer trips, and with all seats up, the boot is small, so airport runs and road trips will require planning.

Mahindra XUV 7XO