I am planning to buy a new car within a budget of ...
I am planning to buy a new car within a budget of Rs 15 to 20 lakh. My daily drive is around 10km, with two trips of about 80km each month, and two or three long drives in a year. Normally, I travel alone, but on long trips, I travel with a family of four adults. I am confused about the transmission and powertrain choices: EV vs petrol vs hybrid. I have shortlisted the Curvv, Clavis, and Sierra. Please suggest.
Asked by: Manu
Given your very low daily and monthly driving usage, an electric car sounds like it would make the most sense, but on your 2-3 long drives, the range restriction might prove an inconvenience. Moreover, given your limited usage, the extra purchase cost of the EV may not be justified, and all the EVs you have shortlisted are either at the very edge of your budget or above it. Thus, a frugal, low-maintenance petrol car or a hybrid might make more sense for you.
Amongst the cars you have mentioned, the Tata Sierra petrol seems like a good bet - it's more spacious than the Curvv, and comfier than the Kia Carens Clavis. However, you should consider a hybrid, like the Maruti Suzuki Victoris, of which you can get the mid-range ZXi variant in your budget of Rs 20 lakh.