Hi, I’m planning to upgrade to a new car after 10 years. I’m 6'2" and need a CNG-fitted car for daily long runs to the office. My on-road budget is ₹9 lakh. I’m torn between the Tata Punch CNG, Toyota Taisor CNG, and Hyundai Exter CNG. Should I buy now or wait a few months for more CNG options in this budget? Please suggest.

Autocar India

•41m

For a first-time buyer looking for an automatic in your budget, we would actually pick the Maruti Fronx AMT from your shortlist. It gives you the raised seating position and SUV-like feel that many first-time buyers appreciate, while still being easy to drive, fuel-efficient and inexpensive to maintain. It also feels a bit more special than the Baleno and Glanza.The Baleno AMT and Toyota Glanza AMT are mechanically identical, and if rear seat comfort, ride quality and value for money are your priorities, they remain excellent choices. Between the two, we would lean towards the Glanza because Toyota's warranty packages and ownership experience can be an advantage.The Toyota Taisor is essentially a Fronx underneath, so the choice between the two often comes down to styling preference, dealership experience and the offers available in your city.One car not on your list that is definitely worth considering is the Honda Amaze CVT. The CVT gearbox is smoother than the AMTs in the Maruti and Toyota models. The car is comfortable, reliable and easy to own long term. If you do not specifically need the SUV stance, it is arguably the most refined automatic you can buy around this budget.

Maruti Suzuki Fronx

Maruti Suzuki Baleno

Toyota Glanza

Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor

Honda Amaze

Autocar India

•2d

This isn’t normal on a brand-new Punch Turbo; book an immediate inspection and avoid driving it till they check it.Visible white smoke from the bonnet with a burnt smell right after the first drive points to oil or coolant touching a hot exhaust or turbo, or a loose clamp. A slipping clutch can create a burnt smell, but it rarely causes visible smoke on a day-one car unless something is already wrong, so the half-clutch explanation sounds like deflection. There is one harmless case, thin coatings or a bit of fluid spilled during prep can burn off and give a faint smell or light wisps for the first few kilometres, but that should fade quickly and not produce sustained smoke.Park it, look for any fresh wet spots under the car, and check the coolant level once the engine is fully cold. Note where the smoke seemed to start, especially front right near the turbo and exhaust, and record a short clip if it happens again. Take it back to the dealer, ask for a job card, and have them check for leaks, loose hose clamps, or clutch issues under warranty. Do not accept “driving style” as the only answer on day one.

Tata Punch

Autocar India

•1h

Given your situation, we wouldn't wait for a Toyota Corolla or Corolla Cross Hybrid. While Toyota is evaluating additional hybrid models for India, neither appears likely to arrive anytime soon.Among the cars available today, the Honda City e:HEV is a very compelling option. Its hybrid system is proven, fuel efficiency is excellent, and the driving experience is more refined than most strong hybrids in its price range. If you enjoy sedans and don't specifically need SUV-like ground clearance, it remains one of the best hybrid packages on sale today.If you want an SUV, the decision comes down to the Urban Cruiser Hyryder Hybrid and stretching your budget for the Innova Hycross Hybrid. The Hyryder is efficient, reliable and easy to recommend, but if your hesitation is that it feels too closely related to a Maruti product, that perception is unlikely to change after purchase. The Hycross, on the other hand, feels like a more substantial upgrade and offers significantly more space, comfort and road presence.

Honda City

Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder

Toyota Innova HyCross