Dear advisor, I am looking to purchase a new SUV with a budget of approximately ₹17 lakhs. My usage is roughly 500 km per month, primarily within city limits, with occasional highway trips. I am looking for a vehicle that is robust and trustworthy, offering a balance of decent mileage and good boot space for luggage. I specifically prefer an automatic transmission, ideally a Dual-Clutch (DCA/DCT) or a Torque Converter (TC). Given my requirements, could you suggest 3 specific value-for-money models?

Considering your requirements, the Maruti Suzuki Victoris will be a good fit. Within your budget, you can choose either the VXI AT or the ZXI AT if you want more features.It is powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, which is more than adequate for city use. The torque converter automatic is smooth and should deliver decent efficiency as well. The boot is well-shaped and deep, making it easy to accommodate even larger suitcases. Being a Maruti Suzuki car, it should also prove to be reliable and easy to own in the long run.If you want something smaller but more feature-rich, you could consider the new Hyundai Venue. It gets a peppy 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic. Within your budget, you can opt for the top HX10 trim, which is loaded with premium features such as a Bose audio system, Level 2 ADAS and ventilated front seats.

The Nissan Magnite is a compact SUV, while the Maruti Baleno is a premium hatchback. The Magnite is more spacious and has a bigger boot, but the Baleno is more powerful and fuel-efficient.If you want a car that is more spacious and has a higher seating position, then the Magnite is the better option. However, if you want a car that is more fun to drive and has a more premium feel, then the Maruti Suzuki Baleno is the better option.

If you are not keen on an SUV and want to buy a sedan, we would suggest waiting. All four sedans currently on sale, the Honda City, Hyundai Verna, Volkswagen Virtus and Skoda Slavia, are due for updates soon.If you cannot wait and considering you already own a 2012 Verna, the current Verna is a sensible choice. It is a well rounded product with a smooth petrol engine, good space, a comfortable ride and premium interiors. The Hyundai Verna also offers strong value for money, and within your budget, you can get the top SX(O) petrol CVT, which comes loaded with premium features.If you want a sedan that is slightly taller and easier to get in and out of, the Volkswagen Virtus and Skoda Slavia make sense. Their higher ground clearance makes them more practical for Indian road conditions, and the higher seating position improves ease of access.However, if you are open to the idea of an SUV and want a safe, proven option, you can consider the Hyundai Creta. It is a strong all rounder with a smooth and refined 1.5 litre petrol engine, comfortable ride quality and a spacious, practical cabin.

Within your budget, the Kia Carens Clavis is a good option. It is easy to drive and offers a comfortable third row. The 1.5-litre turbo petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engines are powerful enough for both city and highway use, with decent efficiency.Considering your limited running, the petrol variant makes more sense. While the diesel is more efficient, and your highway usage should not cause DPF issues, your usage does not justify the higher price. Also, the diesel automatic is offered only in a single mid variant, which is not very feature-rich.If you want something more powerful, we would suggest waiting for the soon-to-be-launched Mahindra XUV 7XO. It will offer more effortless performance, but its third row, though usable, will not be as comfortable as the Clavis, and fuel efficiency will also be lower.