I’m a first-time car buyer, and my budget is ₹7-8 lakh. I’m a doctor and still learning to drive, so the car will likely take its share of bumps and scratches. I want a vehicle that’s reliable, easy to maintain, offers good safety, and comfortable for years to come. Also, should I buy a manual or automatic? And people are telling me that Tata’s service backup is poor - is it true?

Autocar India

•17w

If you are not very confident behind the wheel, we would recommend you spend some time with a reputable driving school, as you would want to eliminate small accidents and scrapes as far as possible. As for your query of a manual or automatic, a manual would be better in terms of mastering skills and having flexibility in terms of driving different cars. However, if you do not feel confident, its ok to stick with automatics as there are plenty of choices available today at all price points. In terms of a choice of car, we would suggest you look at the Tata Punch is easy to drive with its compact dimensions and offers a slightly higher seating point, offering you a better vantage point. Tata's service is inconsistent around the country, and if your local dealer isn't known for good service, you could consider the Maruti Wagon R.

Explore cars mentioned

Tata

Punch

from ₹6.22 Lakh

Maruti Suzuki

Wagon R

from ₹5.57 Lakh

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Latest questions people are discussing

RATHI MRINALINI

•3d

I'm a new driver on the road. Been driving a Celerio (second-hand) for the last 2 years in Bangalore. Looking for an automatic petrol car within a budget of ₹9.5 lakh. My priority is safety and ease of adapting to the new car. I am thinking of a Punch. Looking for your suggestion.

Autocar India

•1d

Yes, the Tata Punch Adventure AMT is an excellent option, given your requirements. It's tall with a high seating position, which gives you a commanding view out - great for a new driver, yet it's compact enough not to be intimidating around town. It will also feel like a good upgrade from your old Celerio.Since safety is also a consideration for you, the Punch has been given a 5-star Bharat NCAP crash test rating and gets 6 airbags as standard, plus a good amount of standard safety equipment. If there's a potential drawback, it's that the Punch's 1.2 petrol engine and AMT gearbox aren't the smoothest combination, and as a new driver, the jerkiness at low speeds is something you will have to learn to drive around.Also consider the Hyundai Exter SX Smart AMT and the Nissan Magnite Kuro AMT as well, as both have smoother powertrains than the Punch.

Hardik

I am confused between the Punch CNG automatic and the Nexon CNG. Since the Punch is available with an automatic and almost all the same features as the Nexon, should I go for the automatic comfort with the Punch, or will the Nexon still be a better choice?

Autocar India

•2d

Go for the Tata Punch CNG AMT. Not only will you benefit from the low running costs of a CNG, but you also have the convenience of clutch pedal-free driving. Additionally, the Punch's NA engine will be more efficient than the Nexon's turbo unit.Although performance won't be as strong as the Tata Nexon, as a point A-to-B city commuter, the Punch CNG AMT is hard to beat. So, unless you need the extra space or performance, pick the Punch CNG AMT.

Tata Punch

Tata Nexon

VISHNUDAS P

•5d

I want to buy an automatic car mainly for city use with a budget of around ₹10 lakh. I shortlisted the Maruti Suzuki Ignis, but I have heard rumours that its production might be stopped. Is there any update on this, and what are some good alternatives to the Ignis?

Autocar India

•2d

The Maruti Suzuki Ignis is still in production. It is worth noting that the Ignis is a bit long in the tooth now, and sales are very low, especially so by Maruti standards. Thus, there could be a possibility of it being discontinued or updated. In any case, being a Maruti model that has been on sale for a while now, you would still be able to get it serviced for a fairly long period of time.If you are, however, worried about this, you could consider the Hyundai Exter and Tata Punch, which are two cars that will offer similar benefits of being compact, high-riding and available with an automatic transmission.

Hyundai Exter

Tata Punch

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