I'm torn between the Toyota Hilux and the Fortuner. Most of my driving is within the city or on highways, but the substantial discounts on the Hilux make it an appealing option. My primary concerns with the Hilux are: 1. Uncomfortable rear seats 2. Leaf spring suspension at the rear 3. A turning radius of 5.4 meters 4. High cost of accessories Given these factors, would it be more prudent to opt for the Fortuner, or is the Hilux still a viable choice despite these drawbacks?

autocar.india

•3h

Given your annual running of 8-9,000 km, a diesel no longer makes financial sense. The payback period is simply too long at this usage level, and modern petrol engines are far more refined and efficient than they were a decade ago. The new Renault Duster petrol is a strong option if you loved your old Duster. It retains the same rugged character and excellent ride quality, and the 1.3 turbo petrol is punchy and enjoyable to drive. The MG Hector is a spacious SUV with a roomy cabin, but it isn't as rewarding to drive as the new Renault Duster.If you are open to hybrids, the Maruti Suzuki Victoris Hybrid is worth considering. It offers excellent fuel efficiency and a very smooth driving experience, especially in city traffic. However, it does not have the same rugged SUV feel as the Duster.The key is to move past the old diesel mindset. Modern turbo petrol engines are genuinely enjoyable to drive, and the new Duster is the closest you will get to the car you loved, just with a more sensible fuel choice for your usage.

Renault Duster

Maruti Suzuki Victoris

autocar.india

•10h

We'd recommend the Mahindra XEV 9S. With a daily commute of 30-40 km, almost entirely in city traffic, and access to home charging, an EV simply suits your usage better than either a petrol or diesel vehicle. It offers the lowest running costs, the smoothest driving experience in stop-start traffic, and significantly lower maintenance than an ICE SUV. Since you intend to keep the vehicle for 7-10 years, you'll benefit from these lower operating costs over a long ownership period.Between the two XUV 7XO variants, we'd choose the Mahindra XUV 7XO AX5 Petrol Automatic over the XUV 7XO AX5 Diesel Automatic. Although your daily driving distance is enough for the engine to reach its operating temperature, DPF-equipped diesel engines perform best when they are driven on regular highway runs at sustained speeds. With predominantly urban use, the petrol variant is the safer and more hassle-free option. We also wouldn't be concerned about E20 petrol or speculate about future diesel biofuel blends. Modern engines are designed to run on the fuels currently mandated, and there is no official roadmap that should influence your buying decision today.Your concern about charging infrastructure on long trips is valid, but it's becoming less of an issue with each passing year. The charging network on major highways continues to expand rapidly, and for the occasional outstation drive, a little route planning is usually all that's required. Since the vast majority of your driving is within Chandigarh, you'll spend most of your time charging conveniently at home rather than visiting fuel stations.

Mahindra XEV 9S

Mahindra XUV 7XO

autocar.india

•1h

With a daily running of just 10km in Bangalore and the car being for your son, the priority should be ease of driving, low running costs and reliability. The Maruti Suzuki Celerio AMT is the most sensible choice here. It is compact, easy to manoeuvre in city traffic and parking, and the AMT gearbox keeps costs down while still offering the convenience of an automatic. Maruti’s service network and low maintenance costs are a big advantage for a student owner. If you want something slightly more premium, the Maruti Suzuki Baleno AMT is a good step up if budget allows. Given the usage and budget-friendly requirement, the Celerio AMT is the most practical and cost-effective recommendation.

Maruti Suzuki Celerio

Maruti Suzuki Baleno