I've been driving a Maruti Suzuki Ciaz Diesel Manual for a decade. It has been a great car in almost every aspect. My only complaint is its low ground clearance, which has resulted in numerous scratches on the underbody. Is there any SUV or MUV that can match the comfort of the Ciaz and also be as future-proof as a Maruti Suzuki?

autocar.india

•3d

Given your requirements, the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga CNG is the most sensible recommendation. Your monthly running of around 1,000 km, with occasional spikes, does not justify a diesel, especially with the higher purchase cost and maintenance associated with modern diesel engines. The Ertiga CNG strikes the right balance between low running costs, reliability and practicality. It is a proven 7-seater with a comfortable ride, good service network and low maintenance costs, which is important given your plan to keep the car for 7-10 years. The CNG system is factory-fitted and well-integrated, making it a far better option than any aftermarket CNG installation. The only drawback is the reduced boot space with the CNG tank, but for your usage pattern and occasional rental plans, the overall cost savings outweigh this limitation. If you need more space and comfort, the Maruti Suzuki XL6 CNG is a good alternative, offering a more premium cabin and captain seats in the middle row making it a strict 6-seater, but the Ertiga remains the more value-driven choice. Alternatively, there is also the Toyota Rumion, which is Toyota's version of the Ertiga so if there is a lower waiting time, you can check out the Rumion too.

Maruti Suzuki XL6

Toyota Rumion

Maruti Suzuki Ertiga

autocar.india

•26m

Given your priorities of reliability, good mileage, decent features and long-term ownership, the Kia Seltos IVT would be our recommendation. The automatic version will be better suited, as you are struggling with the heavy clutch. More specifically, the HTX(A) trim will get you everything you would want. The CVT gearbox is smooth and effortless in the city, and the naturally aspirated engine has good performance without sacrificing too much efficiency. The cabin space and quality are excellent, and the Kia cars are very reliable too. Safety is another aspect in which it scores a perfect 5-star rating in the Bharat NCAP tests. Overall, it is a very strong package and one that will suffice your needs the best.

Kia Seltos

autocar.india

•1h

With a monthly running of just 350km, diesel is not financially justified, so you should focus on petrol or hybrid options. The Maruti Suzuki Victoris Hybrid is the most sensible recommendation here. This Maruti Suzuki car offers excellent fuel efficiency, a comfortable ride and a proven ownership experience, making it a very easy car to live with over the long term. The hybrid system works seamlessly in city traffic and keeps running costs low, which is exactly what you want with your usage pattern.If you want something with a more premium feel and a stronger safety package, the Kia Seltos is the alternative to consider. It has a more upmarket cabin, a wider range of features and a more substantial feel on the road. The only trade-off is that it will not be as efficient as the Victoris Hybrid in city driving.Overall, the Victoris Hybrid in its ZXI trim will cost around your budget and is the most balanced recommendation for your requirements. It is efficient, comfortable and easy to own, which is exactly what you need coming from a Dzire diesel.

Maruti Suzuki Dzire

Maruti Suzuki Victoris

Kia Seltos