I would like to buy a smaller car than the Baleno I am currently driving. I prefer an automatic/AMT, as I am 64 years old and a retired banker. My budget is under ₹9 lakh. What do you recommend?

Autocar India

•12m

Opt for the Mahindra XUV 7XO AX7 L diesel automatic. For your 50km daily running and occasional highway trips, diesel is the more suitable choice overall, as it will be more efficient over time, and its strong low-speed torque makes it easier to drive in stop-and-go traffic. On the highway, it feels relaxed and effortless, which makes longer intercity drives more comfortable. The automatic is smooth enough for daily use, and the overall package suits long hours behind the wheel.Please keep in mind that modern diesels utilise a DPF system that requires occasional steady runs to remain clean. With your usage, this should not be a concern, as your daily distance and highway drives will naturally allow the system to regenerate.If your usage becomes more city-heavy with shorter trips, the petrol automatic version is worth considering, as it is quieter and smoother in traffic, though it will be less efficient.

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Autocar India

•1h

Go for the Mahindra XUV 7XO diesel automatic. With your 50 km daily running and occasional highway trips, diesel makes good sense, as you will benefit from better efficiency over time and strong low-speed torque, which helps in city traffic. The automatic is smooth enough for everyday use, and the car feels stable and comfortable on the highway, with ample space for family and luggage. Mahindra’s service network in Mumbai is also well established, which adds to peace of mind.Do keep in mind that modern diesels use a DPF system, which can require occasional cleaning runs if the car is driven only in slow traffic. Your highway trips should naturally take care of this, but if a regeneration message appears, a steady 15-20 minute drive will clear it. Also, the third row is best suited for occasional use, so it is worth checking comfort if you plan to use all seven seats regularly.If you want a close alternative, the Tata Safari diesel automatic offers a more comfortable and spacious third row, making it more suitable for frequent family use. If you prefer to avoid diesel altogether and want the smoothest city experience, a strong hybrid like the Toyota Innova HyCross is worth considering, though it comes at a higher price.

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Tata Safari

Toyota Innova HyCross

Autocar India

•1h

Go for the Kia Seltos HTX Petrol CVT for your mostly city use, as it is the smoothest and least stressful Seltos to drive.The iVT is Kia’s CVT automatic gearbox that comes paired with a 115hp, 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. For your running, this powertrain will feel calm, quiet and easy-going. You still get a rich cabin, and the key features most people want, and Kia’s service reach in cities is strong. One thing to be aware of is that this petrol IVT is not as quick as the 160hp, 1.5-litre turbo-petrol, and it doesn’t have every single feature of the top-most trim.If you truly want the full top trim and stronger power, look at the 1.5 turbo-petrol DCT in GTX+ or X-Line, but know that this twin-clutch automatic can feel a bit hesitant and jerky in bumper-to-bumper jams.

Kia Seltos