I currently own a Maruti S-Cross and a Honda Brio, and I plan to replace both. My budget for a 5-seater SUV is around 15-16 lakh, and for a compact hatchback, around 6 lakh. Both cars will be used in the city, and I want petrol options that are easy to maintain and fun to drive. The SUV will occasionally be used for family trips with four people (2 adults and 2 kids). My must-have features include a rear parking camera, steering-mounted controls, automatic climate control, rear AC vents (in the SUV), and keyless entry. I really like my current cars, especially the Brio.

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

•35m

While your preference is for a diesel, we suggest you consider the Skoda Kodiaq, which is a petrol-only model. Its 2-litre turbo-petrol engine is strong and punchy, and the SUV's good high-speed stability makes it a great road trip car. The third row is tight on space, but this shouldn't be a deal breaker given your occasional use of the last row. With the last row down, the Kodiaq offers loads of room for luggage. The Kodiaq is also well kitted out, and you'll like the sound quality from the Canton sound system. Do note, fuel economy isn't great in town, but the Kodiaq returns reasonable numbers on highway drives. If a diesel is a must, the new MG Majestor is an option for you. It's a size or two larger than your Tata Safari and scores big for road presence. The large size also means the Majestor is big on space. Performance is good, and there are also loads of features packed in. The only question mark for now is the price, but we expect it to be within your budget.

Skoda Kodiaq

MG Majestor

Tata Safari

Autocar India

•2h

With 100 km a day, 26 days a month, and a Rs 15-20 lakh budget, consider the Kia Seltos diesel manual. The diesel will keep your running costs in check and feel a lot smoother than the old Scorpio. For someone used to bigger cars, the Seltos cabin will still feel comfortable and airy. The tall seats and large windows give a clear view out, and the air conditioning works very well, which you will appreciate.If the Seltos is stretching your budget, then consider the Sonet diesel instead. Its cabin isn’t as roomy, but the large vents mean that the AC cools the cabin very well.Overall, for your commute and budget, the Seltos lines up best.

Kia Seltos

Kia Sonet