Latest questions answered by experts

I own a Mahindra XUV 3XO MPFi Petrol, and I mainly use it for city driving. However, I'm getting only around 7-8 kmpl in the city. Should I consider installing a CNG kit in the car?

•51m

We wouldn't recommend installing an aftermarket CNG kit on your Mahindra XUV 3XO MPFi Petrol. While it may significantly reduce your running costs, there are a few important compromises to consider. An aftermarket CNG conversion can affect your manufacturer's warranty, reduce boot space and may also impact long-term reliability and refinement if the installation isn't carried out to a very high standard. We'd be even more cautious when it comes to turbo-petrol engines. Unless the CNG system has been developed and validated by the OEM, we generally don't recommend fitting one. Turbo-petrol engines are more complex to calibrate for CNG, and an aftermarket installation may not deliver the same levels of drivability, performance and reliability as a factory-engineered solution. Tata is one of the few manufacturers currently offering a factory-fitted CNG option with a turbo-petrol engine on the Nexon, and that has been engineered from the outset to work with CNG.A city's fuel efficiency of 7-8kpl is on the lower side, but if your driving is predominantly in heavy stop-start traffic, it isn't entirely unexpected. Before considering a CNG conversion, we'd recommend getting the car inspected at the service centre to ensure there are no underlying issues. Also check that the tyre pressures are correct and review your driving style, as these can have a noticeable impact on fuel economy.

Mahindra XUV 3XO

•1d

Hi. I commute around 15 km every day. Please suggest a bike for me. My budget is below Rs. 1 lakh.

•1h

Since your budget is under Rs 1 lakh, pick a 100-110cc commuter from the likes of the Hero HF / Passion Plus, Honda Shine 100, Bajaj Platina 110 and TVS Sport / Star City Plus / Radeon models. The 100cc models will, of course, return more fuel efficiency than the 110s, and if you must have the lowest running costs possible, then opting for the smaller machines makes sense. All of these bikes have been around for a very long time and are hardy, reliable and time-tested products, so no matter which one you choose, you can't really go wrong. Take test rides to help make your decision process a little easier.

Honda Bikes Shine 100

•1d

Hi Team, I am looking to upgrade from my 2018 Maruti Celerio X AMT to a bigger car under 4 metres. My budget is between Rs. 10 lakh and Rs. 14 lakh on-road. My usage is primarily city driving of around 20 km per day, along with an occasional 2,000 km round trip every four months. My priorities, in order, are: (1) excellent suspension and ride comfort, (2) spacious and comfortable front and rear seats, (3) strong build quality and safety, (4) a punchy engine with an automatic transmission, (5) reliable mechanicals for long-term ownership. I always buy the top variant, so please recommend the best options within my budget, irrespective of body style.

•1h

Pick the Nissan Magnite turbo petrol automatic in XV Premium (O). It rides comfortably over bad city roads, has a roomy back seat and supportive fronts, and the turbo gives easy surge for gaps in traffic and relaxed cruising on your 2000 km runs. It’s 5-star rated with a solid-feeling body, gets the key safety kit, and the top trim stays within Rs 10-14 lakh on-road in most cities. Running costs are sensible, and Nissan backs it with long warranty packs. The one compromise is that it doesn’t feel as heavy or plush as pricier rivals at very high speeds.Renault Kiger turbo petrol automatic in RXZ is the twin to the Magnite with similar strengths, a touch firmer ride, and a slightly nicer cabin feel. Choose it if Renault service is stronger near you.

Nissan Magnite

Renault Kiger

•1d

My budget is around Rs. 17-17.5 lakh, and I am planning to buy a Kia Seltos. However, I am confused between the HTE (O) Diesel Automatic and the HTK Petrol Automatic. My annual running is around 10,000 km, mostly within the city, with occasional expressway trips. I want an automatic transmission. Please also suggest any other cars from other brands around Rs. 17 lakh that match my requirements.

•2h

Pick the Kia Seltos HTK Petrol automatic. With just 10,000km a year and mostly city use, the petrol auto is smoother and quieter in traffic, costs less upfront, and you avoid diesel DPF hassles that can crop up without sufficient highway use. For your occasional expressway trips, the petrol IVT is more than sufficient and has enough punch for quick passes. The diesel auto is stronger and more efficient on long highways, but it’s pricier and a bit gruff in town. The only downside of petrol is that you will use more fuel than diesel. Plus, the HTK will get you far more features than the HTE (O).If you want to cross-shop in the same ballpark, try the Hyundai Creta petrol automatic for a comfier city ride, or the Skoda Kushaq 1.0 automatic if you prefer a tighter, more fun drive. Depending on your city and discounts, the exact variant that fits into your Rs 17-17.5 lakh on-road budget will vary, but these match your brief well.

I am a third-year college student, and I've always wanted a bike. My dream bike is the KTM Duke 390, but I've settled on the Duke 250 because it seems easier to own. I will have to ask my parents to buy it for me, and I feel guilty about that, but I also can't let go of the dream of owning a KTM. My parents have set a budget of Rs. 2 lakh, while the Duke 250 costs around Rs. 2.7 lakh. Is it worth stretching the budget? Also, what is the best lower-capacity bike that offers an aggressive performance like a KTM? I don't like the Yamaha R15 because the riding position feels too cramped.

•4h

At some point in our lives, we were all in your shoes, and no matter which motorcycle you get, it's going to be a fun road ahead! First things first, since your budget is Rs 2 lakh, why not consider the 350cc Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z? This bike will give you more performance than any other machine at this price point, and it's an exciting and engaging machine without being too cramped and uncomfortable. The NS400Z's on road price is also likely to cross the Rs 2 lakh mark, but it will well undercut the Rs 2.70 lakh asking price of the KTM 250 Duke.

Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z

KTM 250 Duke

•5d

I am currently driving a 2012 Toyota Etios Liva and want to replace it as it is approaching 15 years of age. I am looking for a family car under Rs 10-12 lakh that I can keep for a long time. It should also be compatible with E20 fuel.

•5h

Maruti Suzuki Baleno 1.2 petrol is your safest long-term switch. It is factory E20-ready, and Maruti typically does a good job of calibrating the engine to maintain good fuel efficiency. Coming from an Etios, you will appreciate Maruti’s fuss-free ownership and the peace of mind for over 10 years. As a family car, it is practical, with a spacious rear seat, a comfortable ride, light controls for city driving, and stable highway manners. It fits well under Rs. 10-12 lakh.One thing to keep in mind is that it is a hatchback, so you do not get the high seating or rough-road ability of a small SUV. If you need a bit more ground clearance, the Fronx is a good bet. If you prefer a sedan, the Honda Amaze 1.2 is E20-compatible too and easy to keep for years.

Maruti Suzuki Baleno

Maruti Suzuki Fronx

Honda Amaze