Autocar India
1d

Hi Autocar I am planning to buy a car around December 2026, so this is not an urgent request. My usage includes monthly travel from Chennai to Coimbatore by highway and another 200 km of combined highway and city driving. So, the maximum monthly usage will be around 1,200 km. Usually, 2 adults and one kid will travel, and sometimes my parents will also accompany us. I am planning to keep the car for 10+ years and need a car that offers good mileage. My maximum on-road budget is around Rs.13 lakh. Thanks in advance

Verified
20m

Since you will be driving between Chennai and Coimbatore often, we recommend that you consider the upcoming 2026 Maruti Suzuki Brezza 1.0 Turbo. While its launch is scheduled in the coming weeks, the turbo-petrol engine is likely to address one of the Brezza's biggest shortcomings - lack of outright punch, and bring its performance at par with rivals. The turbo will add some much-needed oomph to the Brezza, which is otherwise a spacious, practical, and comfortable family car. It will feel tough, secure and long-distance drives will be a breeze.

Alternatively, you can shortlist the Skoda Kylaq and Mahindra XUV 3XO. Between the two, the former will feel a bit nicer to drive, while the latter is more spacious.

Skoda Kylaq

Skoda Kylaq

More questions on similar cars

1d

I've finally narrowed my choice down to two cars: the Skoda Kylaq Signature+ Manual and the Hyundai Venue HX8 Manual P Turbo. I love the Kylaq, but I recently drove the Venue and was really impressed by its handling, interiors and overall comfort. It feels like a very well-sorted package. Which one would you recommend in terms of ownership costs, maintenance and driving pleasure?

Verified
4h

We'd recommend the Skoda Kylaq Signature+ Manual. If driving pleasure is your top priority, the Kylaq remains the more rewarding car. In our comparison, it stood out as the best driver's car in the segment, with sharp steering, a well-balanced chassis and an excellent ride and handling combination. This Skoda car's front seats are also among the most supportive in the class, making it a great companion for long drives.The Hyundai Venue has, however, made a big leap forward. Its cabin is a noticeable improvement over the previous model, rear seat space is much better, and it now feels like a far more rounded SUV. In fact, it emerged as the overall winner in our comparison because it doesn't have any major weaknesses. It may not be the most exciting car to drive, but it does everything very well, from comfort and practicality to features and everyday usability.The decision, therefore, comes down to your priorities. If you enjoy driving and want a more engaging car, the Kylaq is still our pick. If you're looking for the most well-rounded package with a more premium cabin and better all-around usability, the Venue makes a very strong case.Since you've already driven both and liked them, we'd suggest taking your family along for one final test drive. If your heart still says Kylaq, then go with it. If your head says Venue, you won't be disappointed either, as it is currently one of the most complete compact SUVs on sale.

VehicleSkoda Kylaq
VehicleHyundai Venue

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Posted on: 11 Jul 2026