Hi Team Autocar, I am looking to buy a car within a budget of Rs 30 lakh. Initially, I was considering the MG Tomahawk PHEV, but delays in its availability have made me explore other options. I have also considered the Tata Sierra, Tata Safari and a few other models. My primary objective is to buy a recently launched 5 or 7-seater in its top-spec variant, with the best possible interiors, safety features and comfort equipment. I can stretch my budget to a maximum on-road price of Rs 32 lakh. I am open to petrol and hybrid options, although I may prefer a diesel given my annual running. However, concerns about diesel vehicle restrictions in Delhi after 10 years are making me reconsider that choice. My usage is primarily in Delhi traffic, with a daily commute of around 45-50 km that involves spending nearly 3-4 hours in the car. I also undertake weekend trips of approximately 400 km. Considering my requirements and usage, could you please suggest one or two suitable options? Thanks in advance.

autocar.india

•1d

With a daily running of around 100km, switching to a diesel SUV makes sense, and we would suggest looking at the Kia Seltos diesel and Mahindra XUV 7XO diesel automatic. However, don't assume that a larger diesel SUV will automatically reduce your monthly fuel bill significantly.The Mahindra XUV 7XO diesel automatic is a great upgrade if you want more space, performance and comfort. Its 2.2-litre diesel engine produces 185hp and 450Nm, and returned 13.1kpl in Autocar India's real-world tests. However, given its size and weight, your monthly fuel expenditure may not reduce dramatically compared to your Creta petrol. The Kia Seltos diesel, on the other hand, will be more economical to run and is also a refined SUV with a premium cabin. It will feel more spacious than your Creta, although it cannot match the XUV 7XO for outright cabin space and performance.

Kia Seltos

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Hyundai Creta

autocar.india

•2d

The Innova Hycross is a solid choice for your parents' needs. At your budget, you are likely looking at the GX (O) trim, which covers all the feature basics, including a 10.1-inch infotainment screen, front and rear parking sensors, and a reversing camera. One drawback is that it lacks cruise control, which you might find handy on highway trips.It isn't as feature-loaded as some rivals, but in everyday use, your parents might find the Innova more user-friendly. The petrol engine also suits your needs well. It is smooth and refined, and the CVT is seamless in operation. It also offers sufficient performance for your monthly highway trips.Modern diesel engines have DPF filters that require sustained highway driving for around 20 - 30 minutes every couple of weeks, at a minimum. If the majority of your running is on the highway, it might be worth considering the Mahindra XUV 7XO diesel automatic. It has a strong yet refined engine, with good performance and decent efficiency. It is also very comfortable, thanks to its superb suspension setup.The XUV 7XO is feature-packed, but its infotainment UI can be a little confusing at times, with many functions integrated into the touchscreen. Take your parents to the showroom to see if they can get used to the interface. Mahindra's reliability and after-sales service have also improved significantly in recent years, although they aren't quite at Toyota's level yet.Overall, though, the Hycross is a better long-term fit for your needs.

Toyota Innova HyCross

Mahindra XUV 7XO

autocar.india

•2d

You are right about the Mahindra Thar Roxx. While it offers strong performance and road presence, its ride comfort may not be ideal for your family's requirements, particularly with 60 per cent highway usage. We would suggest looking at the Mahindra XUV 7XO diesel automatic instead. It offers a more comfortable ride, a spacious cabin, better rear seat comfort and strong highway performance. It will be a more suitable family SUV for your usage, without compromising too much on performance.

Mahindra Thar Roxx

Mahindra XUV 7XO