Hi everyone, I am looking for a reliable automatic upgrade for my parents. My budget is strictly capped at Rs. 17 lakh (on-road, Hyderabad). The lower, the better. I will be selling our 2019 Ford Figo Titanium petrol manual. Our use case & priorities: Primary drivers: My parents Usage: We live on the outskirts, so the car will see mixed usage, mostly in mild traffic. Priorities: Low maintenance, low running costs, and a hassle-free, smooth driving experience. Shortlisted options: Honda Amaze ZXi CVT, Honda Elevate V CVT, Maruti Brezza ZXi AT, maybe Mahindra XUV 3XO

autocar.india

•23h

Go for the Honda Amaze VX CVT. With 80 percent city driving and this being your first automatic, the Amaze’s CVT is its biggest advantage. It is far smoother and more predictable than the Swift’s AMT, especially in stop-start traffic, and that makes a big difference to daily comfort and ease of use. Honda’s ownership experience is generally strong, and the car is well suited to long-term ownership.The Swift ZXI+ AMT is the more efficient car, but the AMT gearbox is not as smooth in city conditions. Being a hatchback, it also has a smaller boot than the Amaze. If that is a concern, look at the Dzire instead, which is essentially the Swift in sedan form.Overall, the Amaze VX CVT is the more refined driving experience, while the Swift/Dzire is the more fuel efficient choice.

Honda Amaze

Maruti Suzuki Dzire

Maruti Suzuki Swift

autocar.india

•2d

For a first car that will primarily be used in Bangalore, the i20 Sportz IVT is the most suitable choice within your budget. The 1.2-litre petrol engine paired with the CVT is smooth and easy to drive in traffic, while the i20 offers a comfortable, refined cabin and enough space for a small family. The Sportz IVT is also well equipped without requiring you to stretch to the higher variants.The Honda Amaze V CVT would be our second choice. Its 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine and CVT are similarly smooth, and the sedan offers a 416-litre boot and a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating. It is particularly worth considering if you expect to carry luggage on your occasional long trips.

Hyundai i20

Honda Amaze

autocar.india

•7h

At 6ft 3in, your first priority should be finding a car with a genuinely comfortable driving position, rather than choosing purely on features or fuel economy. The Honda Elevate is one of the cars worth trying first because it has excellent driver ergonomics, a spacious pedal box and a wide range of seat adjustment.The 1.5 petrol CVT is smooth and well suited to a short daily commute, while the Elevate has a comfortable ride and 220mm of ground clearance. The Kia Seltos 1.5 petrol IVT is another option, with a spacious cabin and comfortable ride, although taller drivers may find the front seat thigh support a little short.Given your specific problem with the steering wheel hitting your knees, do not buy any car without spending at least 15 to 20 minutes in the driver's seat. Set the seat properly, adjust the steering for reach and height, and check that you can fully depress the pedals without your knees coming close to the steering wheel.

Honda Elevate (2023-2026)

Kia Seltos