The Maruti Suzuki Celerio is a good option to consider. It is a small car that is easy to drive and park, and well-suited for new drivers. It also comes with a 5-speed AMT automatic gearbox, which is nice enough in average city driving.Like other Maruti Suzuki cars, the Celerio is reliable and easy to maintain. As an additional plus, the Celerio is quite spacious for its size, and the boot is decently large.

Mahindra's vast and varied model range can be hard to navigate, with multiple engines, gearboxes, drivetrains and feature sets, but do note that the Mahindra Thar Roxx AX5 variant is only available with the diesel engine. To opt for the petrol engine, you have to either move down to the MX5 variant or move up to the AX7 L variant. The price difference between the petrol and diesel engines is around Rs 45,000-55,000, depending on the trim, so that should not be too much of a deterrent.The thing is, both engines are incredibly capable and impressive, with smooth and strong power delivery. It's hard to even call either of them more sporty than the other, but the petrol is perhaps a bit more rev-happy, while the diesel is marginally more efficient - although both have terrible mileage.The engines are both fine in city traffic, mated to smooth 6-speed AT gearboxes, once you learn to drive around the extremely strong power delivery. The steering is surprisingly light too, which is good for manoeuvrability, though it is a large car, so beware of that.

The Mahindra XUV 7XO makes for a more logical choice. The Mahindra is more practical as it is a 7-seater, while the Tata Sierra is a 5-seater only.The XUV 7XO also comes with a more powerful 203hp, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine compared to the Tata Sierra's 160hp, 1.5-litre turbo-petrol unit. Both SUVs come paired with a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. Furthermore, the XUV 7XO offers more features, including ventilated middle-row seats, a second wireless phone charger, and so on.

The new Mahindra XUV 7XO is a good option to consider. It is available with a 203hp, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine and a 185hp, 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine, both of which are punchy and refined. Both engines are available with a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic gearbox. Since your usage isn't high, it's best to opt for the petrol.This Mahindra car offers a spacious cabin, a comfortable ride quality, and is feature-loaded. Prices for the Mahindra XUV 7XO petrol range from Rs 13.66 lakh to Rs 23.64 lakh (ex-showroom, India).