Autocar India
•1d

Hi, I’m looking for recommendations for an automatic car primarily suited to city driving, with an on-road budget of Rs 10–12 lakh in Hyderabad. I currently own a 2022 Maruti Suzuki Ignis manual and a Brezza, which I plan to retain for highway trips. I’m looking to replace the Ignis with an automatic that will primarily be used for daily city commutes. My monthly running is around 1,500km, with approximately 80% city driving and 20% on the ORR. My priorities include a comfortable driving position for my 5’10” height, good ride quality, real-world fuel efficiency and a smooth automatic gearbox. Senior-citizen-friendly entry and exit, along with comfortable rear seats, are also important as my father occasionally travels with me. I’m open to any body style or fuel type since the Brezza will continue to handle highway duties. Could you suggest your top 2–3 options that I should shortlist for back-to-back test drives with my father before making a decision? Real-world ownership experiences and feedback would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Verified
•3m

Given your requirements, you should consider the Maruti Suzuki Baleno AMT. It falls within your budget of Rs 12 lakh, it has an efficient three-cylinder petrol engine, an AMT automatic gearbox and has a spacious cabin. The doors also open wide, and it isn't very low-set, so getting in and out should not be an issue for senior citizens. It will also be comfortable for your height, and the ride quality is also comfy and composed. Being a Maruti, it will also be stress-free to own and easy to maintain, as you would have experienced with your Brezza and Ignis. 

Alternatively, you could also consider the Hyundai i20 IVT. It comes with a larger, four cylinder engine, a smoother CVT automatic gearbox and feels more premium inside. But if won't be nearly as fuel efficient as the Baleno, the rear seat won't be as spacious and it will be more expensive to buy. 

Maruti Suzuki Baleno

Maruti Suzuki Baleno

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•4d

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•3d

It seems like you're leaning towards the Kia Seltos Diesel HTX, and we think it is a good choice. The diesel engine feels adequately powered for highway usage and ghat driving, and it is likely to return respectable efficiency too. Moreover, despite being modern with all the latest tech and features, the Seltos will be substantially more affordable than the Toyota Innova Hycross hybrid. So unless you need the Innova's extra space, or you frequently travel with six or seven passengers, the Kia Seltos diesel is your best bet.

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Posted on: 3 Nov 2026