Hello, we are a family of four with a 2-year-old. I’m looking for a sub-4-metre SUV that delivers a comfortable, confident ride in both city and on the highway. My usage is about 60% city (Bengaluru traffic) and 40% highway, roughly 1,000 km/month. My budget is ₹10–12 lakh on-road (Bengaluru). I’ve shortlisted the Hyundai Venue HX5 Turbo MT and the Mahindra XUV 3XO AX5. We already own an i10 Nios, so I trust Hyundai for trouble-free ownership, but I have reservations about the 3XO. Which should I choose?

Autocar India

•5h

The Maruti Suzuki Brezza ZXi AT would be the recommendation here, but with one important caveat.The Brezza's naturally aspirated petrol engine and torque-converter automatic make it one of the smoothest and most easy-going compact SUVs for city driving. It is also likely to be noticeably more fuel efficient than the Mahindra XUV 3XO RevX A in real-world conditions. Add Maruti's strong reliability record and lower ownership costs makes it a very compelling package.The 3XO RevX A, however, is the more exciting car to drive. Its turbo-petrol engine delivers stronger performance, and the overall driving experience feels more energetic and engaging. It also has the edge when it comes to cabin ambience, features and perceived premium feel, with highlights such as the panoramic sunroof and a more upmarket interior.The only thing to keep in mind is that the Brezza is expected to receive a facelift later this year. If you're leaning towards the Maruti and your purchase is not urgent, it may be worth waiting to see what updates the refreshed model brings.

Maruti Suzuki Brezza

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Autocar India

•8h

Pick the Mahindra XUV 3XO MX2 Pro automatic. It stays within your Rs. 12 lakh on-road cap and will feel easiest for a new, nervous driver thanks to its smooth automatic, light controls and good visibility. It is also one of the safer small SUVs, and importantly for you, the back seat is wide enough for three people. The downside is that the 3XO is not very fuel-efficient as it's tuned for a peppy drive.The Skoda Kylaq Classic Plus automatic will also be within your budget and meet most of your needs, but for three adults at the rear, it would not be as spacious as the Mahindra. One small tip for confidence: pick a variant with a rear camera and drive a bit more with a learning school till you are competent enough to ensure your safety and that of others on the road too. Happy Motoring!

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Skoda Kylaq

Autocar India

•14h

Of your three shortlisted SUVs, the Hyundai Venue 1.0 T-GDi makes the most sense as it's the best all-rounder in the segment. It's got a good blend of performance and efficiency, maintenance is relatively cheap and hassle-free, and there are loads of features on offer, even in mid-level variants. It offers a good mix of rear-seat space and boot volume, which are both big improvements on the last-gen Venue. If there's a downside, it's that its DCT automatic can be jerky in low-speed traffic, and needs to be driven with this in mind. The manual, meanwhile, has a light and smooth clutch and gearshift action, so consider it as well.The Mahindra XUV 3XO scores high on performance, with the strongest engine in the class, and it has great space inside the cabin. Its downside, however, is that boot space is not so great, and neither is fuel economy. The Tata Nexon is also a decent all-rounder, but in most areas, it can't quite keep up with the newer and more polished Venue. Overall, the Venue is the one we think you should go for.Diesel is certainly a feasible option if you plan to keep the car for 5 years, and the mileage will certainly be better. But these engines are nowhere near as refined or punchy as their petrol counterparts, and thanks to newer emissions mitigation technology, they're far more expensive to buy, and require extra maintenance to run. Thus, for your usage, and for a first car, we would stick to petrol.

Hyundai Venue

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Tata Nexon