Hi, Between the Tata Harrier Petrol MT Smart and Pure X variants, which one is better if I leave out the sunroof option? My usage is only around 200-400 km per month, but I want to have a bigger vehicle.

autocar.india

•37m

With around 15,000 km a year and a 10% expected increase, you are still a high-mileage user, but your usage is not extreme. Since you rarely travel as a family of five, a midsize SUV would be the right segment.The key is to find a car that offers a similar sense of torque and effortless performance while keeping running costs reasonable. In your Rs 20-30 lakh price budget, you have quite a few diesel options to consider. Our top recommendation would be the Kia Seltos. The GTX (O) variant will fit your budget and comes with a proven 1.5-litre diesel engine that is reliable, efficient and torquey. This Kia car also comes paired with a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox that is smooth to shift and offers a seamless and hassle-free drive in the city. The GTX (O) is also the top-spec model that comes extremely well-equipped with the likes of ADAS, LED headlamps, wireless connectivity, panoramic sunroof and a lot more. If you want to stray away from a diesel but still want the peace of mind of a Maruti, then a strong hybrid is also worth consideration. The Victoris, in its top spec, ZXi Plus (O), will get you a strong hybrid with an automatic gearbox and along with that you will get a decent amount of equipment as well. The strong hybrid means you have electric assist and that gives you good low-end performance in the city. Off-the-line response is a lot better and a lot like diesel, but then you get the convenience of an automatic, offering a nice smooth drive in the city. So overall it comes down to you. If you want to stick to a diesel, the Seltos is our top choice. If you want to move away, given the uncertainty of diesel, then a strong hybrid in the form of the Victoris will be a good choice to consider and will keep you in the Maruti family, which you are familiar with.

Kia Seltos

Maruti Suzuki Victoris

autocar.india

•1h

The Hyundai Exter is a very sensible first car, especially for a new driver. This Hyundai car is compact and easy to manoeuvre, which makes city driving and parking far less intimidating. The H8 variant is well-equipped with essential features, so you are not missing out on anything important. Hyundai’s service network is extensive, and ownership costs are generally reasonable, which is reassuring for a first-time buyer.The Exter’s naturally aspirated petrol engine is smooth and predictable, making it easy to drive in traffic and forgiving for someone still building confidence behind the wheel. The ride quality is comfortable for a car of this size, and the cabin feels well put together. It also offers a decent amount of space for a small family, so it can comfortably serve as your primary car for several years.

Hyundai Exter

autocar.india

•1h

Go for the new-gen Audi Q3, which is launching soon. With your very minimal usage, the benefits of the Camry's strong hybrid system really won't pay any dividends, and as it is a much larger car with a lower ground clearance, it takes away the convenience factor you are looking for. As such, then, the two compact luxury SUVs are both great options that will suit your needs better. The X1 LWB is a better bet if you are chauffeur-driven, thanks to its immense rear-seat space. However, in most respects, the new Q3 will be the better bet, especially if you drive yourself. It gets a more powerful 2.0-litre engine rather than the BMW's 1.5, it has AWD, and Audi's latest tech. Plus, it's easy to drive and see out of, and Audi has cleverly chosen a smaller rim size for India to ensure that ride quality remains comfortable. Test drive the iX1 too, but overall, the Q3 seems like the better bet for your needs.

Audi Q3

Toyota Camry

BMW X1 LWB