Hello everyone, I've been driving a Hyundai Elite i20 CRDi since 2014, and after more than a decade, I'm planning to upgrade during the upcoming Dussehra/Diwali season. I live in a Tier-2 city, and my budget is up to ₹18 lakh (on-road). After a lot of research, I've shortlisted two cars: - Skoda Kylaq Sportline (upcoming) - Citroën Basalt X Fuel efficiency isn't a priority for me. What matters most is driving pleasure, stability, and long-term reliability. I have a few questions for owners and enthusiasts: 1. Which brand is likely to be more reliable in the long run, especially with E20 petrol? 2. How do the driving dynamics of the Basalt X compare with the Kylaq? I'm particularly interested in steering feel, handling, ride quality, and overall confidence at highway speeds. 3. How has your ownership experience been in terms of service, maintenance, and reliability? I'd really appreciate insights from people who have driven or owned either of these cars. Thanks in advance!

autocar.india

•1d

The Skoda Kylaq Prestige+ automatic is the better choice for your usage, even though the Jimny has the stronger emotional appeal. The Jimny’s biggest strength is its off-road ability, which you’re unlikely to use often. In the city, its heavy steering and large number of turns lock to lock can make manoeuvring tiring, while the ride, though impressive for a ladder-frame SUV, still feels lumpier than the Kylaq’s. Its engine is also less suited to relaxed, quick highway overtakes.The Kylaq, on the other hand, fits your Delhi commute and Uttarakhand trips better. Its 1.0-litre turbo-petrol has enough punch for highway driving, the six-speed torque converter automatic is smooth in traffic, and its comfortable ride and agile handling make it enjoyable without being demanding for a new driver. It should also feel more settled on long highway runs.The Jimny will always have that Gypsy connection, and that’s a perfectly valid reason to want one. But buy the Kylaq with your head and heart: it is the more capable everyday companion for the driving you’ll actually do.

Skoda Kylaq

Maruti Suzuki Jimny

autocar.india

•2d

Coming from an i20 petrol-IVT, you're used to a smooth and seamless drive, hence your next car has to replicate that, if not better the experience, irrespective of whether it is powered by a naturally aspirated petrol or a turbo-petrol engine.Given your low usage, car length constraints and budget of Rs.10-15 lakh, we'd suggest you shorlist the following compact SUVs - Skoda Kylaq AT and Mahindra XUV 3XO AT.The Skoda Kylaq AT has the lowest starting price, at around Rs. 11 lakh (on-road), and it feels like a solid car with impressive driving manners. Sure, cabin space isn't generous, but the seats are comfy, and its engine-gearbox combination is very good. The Mahindra XUV 3XO AT too starts just under Rs 12 lakh (on-road), and it is one tough compact SUV with a powerful engine and a spacious cabin. If you travel with five occupants regularly, this will be the better bet.

Skoda Kylaq

Mahindra XUV 3XO

autocar.india

•4d

With just 300 km a month and city use, reliability and rear seat comfort should be your main priorities. The Skoda Kylaq is the better choice here. It uses a proven 1.0 TSI engine paired with a 6-speed torque converter automatic, which is a reliable and smooth combination for city driving. The Kylaq also offers a more comfortable rear seat experience, with better legroom and a more supportive bench, making it a better family car for daily use. The Kia Sonet is a good car, but the Kylaq edges it out on rear seat comfort and overall driving experience. At your running petrol is the right choice and another good option could be the Maruti Suzuki Brezza 1.5 L automatic, which has a comfier rear seat, a smoother drive experience and a better low speed ride.

Skoda Kylaq

Maruti Suzuki Brezza

Kia Sonet