The Bridgestone tyres that came with the car have run 82,000 km and can still go approximately 20,000 km more. Should I continue using them or get new tyres? If yes, which brand would you recommend in today’s scenario?

Autocar India

•3d

Given that your usage isn't too heavy, you should go for the Kia Sonet HTX 1.0 TGDi DCT without a worry. A concern could arise when used frequently in bumper-to-bumper stop-and-go traffic, and that too if not driven with care. However, since you drive mostly on the weekend and through flowing traffic, we think it should be fine. The trade-off is quicker shifts when you're on the move, and this pairs well with the Sonet's sprightly 120hp turbo petrol engine. The compact SUV itself is well equipped and has premium interiors, but it does have a choppy ride, and its rear seat isn't particularly spacious. If those are concerns for you, also check out the Hyundai Venue HX6 1.0 TGDi DCT, which costs about the same. It uses the same powertrain, but as it's based on a new-gen platform, it has a more spacious cabin and a more comfortable ride. Additionally, the Skoda Kylaq with its punchy 1.0 TSI engine and smooth 6-speed AT gearbox is a great bet. The after-sales is far less of a concern these days than the brand's old reputation leads most to believe.

Kia Sonet

Hyundai Venue

Skoda Kylaq

Autocar India

•1h

The Mahindra XUV 7XO petrol manual will make a great highway companion for your needs. With 8,000-9,000 km a year, petrol is the right call; diesel usually starts to make sense above about 15,000 km/year. The XUV 7XO’s 202hp turbo feels effortless for quick 80-120kph overtakes, which is helpful on open highways. Its long wheelbase keeps it planted at speed, and the wide, supportive seats are great for long stints. The ride and handling balance, with the new suspension setup it received with the facelift, is phenomenal too.If you find that the third row is not spacious enough, then look at the Tata Safari petrol instead.On the test drive, take it on the highway and check stability, ride comfort and overtaking performance.

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Tata Safari

Autocar India

•2h

Without knowing any further requirements, or your budget, it's hard to make a definitive recommendation. However, all things considered, the Renault Duster 1.3 turbo petrol MT is the better overall package than the Skoda Kushaq 1.0 TSI MT. For one, just the power alone is considerably higher in the Duster 1.3, and in fact, it's more than even the Kushaq's larger 1.5 TSI has on offer. Thereafter, the two SUVs are closely matched - both have excellent handling, both offer good space and comfort in the front seat, though it's only average in the rear seat, and both are now well equipped. However, the Duster edges ahead in two areas - the first being boot space, which is a massive 518 litres, compared to about 385 in the Skoda. And the other is ride comfort - while the Kushaq is good, the Duster is even better, delivering a ride that is comfortable, stable and solid feeling, all at once. Thus, overall, the Duster 1.3 Turbo is the better choice.

Renault Duster

Skoda Kushaq