I have a budget of around ₹15 lakh (on-road) and am looking for a petrol automatic car. My usage will be approximately 70% city driving and 30% highway, with an annual running of about 10,000 km. My key priorities are reliability, fuel efficiency, and overall value for money. I am currently considering the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, and Maruti Suzuki Brezza. Which one should I prefer among these three? Additionally, the newly launched Kia Seltos and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara also seem appealing. Should I consider stretching my budget for these models?

Autocar India

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The Mahindra XUV 3XO is the stronger performer in this regard. It features a more powerful turbocharged petrol engine, so pulling power on steep ghats and quick overtakes is noticeably better. It also offers a wider cabin and better rear-seat space, which makes it more comfortable for passengers on long drives. If you enjoy driving and want that effortless push, the 3XO clearly stands out.The Maruti Suzuki Brezza, however, is the more sensible long-term choice. Its engine is simple and proven, fuel efficiency is better in everyday driving, and Maruti’s service network and lower maintenance costs make a big difference over 10-15 years. It is also smoother and easier to drive in the city, which matters for daily use.If you want better performance, stronger pulling power and more rear-seat space, go for the 3XO. If you want maximum reliability, lower running costs and stress-free ownership over 15 years, the Brezza is the safer pick.

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Maruti Suzuki Brezza

Autocar India

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Given your love for long drives, you will be happier with the Renault Duster. It's got a fantastic ride and handling balance, which will make your journeys comfortable and very enjoyable. The great suspension and body control are matched by a strong 160hp, 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine. Power and performance are good. Going for a Duster does come with a slight compromise in terms of cabin space. It's not as roomy as the Hyundai Creta and other models, like the Kia Seltos and Tata Sierra. If more space is a key priority, the Hyundai Creta Turbo-DCT is worth a look. Of the other alternatives, the Kia Seltos Turbo DCT and Tata Sierra turbo AT are also strong options.

Renault Duster

Kia Seltos

Tata Sierra

Hyundai Creta

Autocar India

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The Kia Seltos 1.5 petrol IVT is the easier car to live with in your kind of usage. The IVT gearbox is very smooth and works beautifully in city traffic, offering a creep-friendly, jerk-free experience that makes daily driving stress-free. The naturally aspirated engine is also predictable and linear, which suits stop-go conditions very well.The Renault Duster turbo automatic, on the other hand, comes with a DCT gearbox. While it delivers stronger performance and a much better mid-range punch, the DCT is not as smooth as the Seltos’ IVT at low speeds. In crawling traffic, you may notice slight hesitation or jerkiness compared to the seamless nature of the IVT.Where the Duster clearly stands out is in its ride quality and driving feel. It has a more rugged setup, absorbs bad roads better and feels more fun to drive, especially on highways and twisty roads. The turbo engine also makes it noticeably quicker and more effortless when you want to overtake.If your driving is mostly city, and you want maximum comfort and smoothness, go for the Seltos IVT.

Kia Seltos

Renault Duster