Hello, currently I am using a Nexon and wish to upgrade my car within a price range of up to ₹35 lakh. Driving comfort is my top priority, and my usage will be around 70% city and 30% highway, with an average of 30km per day. My personal choices are, looks-wise, the Harrier (new petrol), and engine-wise, the XUV 7XO. Are there any other options in this price range, or should I wait for any new releases like JSW’s rumoured cars?

Autocar India

•2w

The Tata Harrier's road presence is impressive, and its 1.5-turbo-petrol engine is surprisingly powerful too. If you're in the market for one, it is a capable, well-rounded car. However, as you rightly mentioned, the Mahindra XUV 7XO's larger 2.0-litre turbo-petrol has an edge in terms of performance, smoothness and refinement. It also has an edge in terms of ride comfort, and its lighter steering makes it easier to drive in the city, too.

JSW is likely to introduce its version of the Jetour T2 i-DM (plug-in hybrid) in the latter half of 2026, so you could wait for that if you'd like. That aside, there aren't any more new options expected in that price range.

Explore cars mentioned

Mahindra

XUV 7XO

from ₹15.87 Lakh

Tata

Harrier

from ₹14.98 Lakh

JSW Motors

Jetour T2

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I am looking to buy an SUV (with good ground clearance) which is fun to drive. For me, good mileage, a good audio system and a big boot space (for 3 big suitcases for a holiday trip) are important. My need is for a family of five. My overall usage is mainly city driving in Bangalore with occasional highway usage. I currently own a Ciaz Diesel and am looking to replace it. I intend to own the next vehicle for at least 7-10 years, hence it should not be too outdated technology-wise. I am open to EV’s, too. My budget is around ₹20-25 lakh (might stretch till ₹30 lakh if it's a really better option).

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I currently drive a Land Rover Defender, which I absolutely love for its design and capability. That said, I’m starting to think about SUVs that offer a bit more performance and sporty driving dynamics. I’ve briefly considered the Porsche Cayenne, but I’m curious if there are other options that balance power, handling, and everyday usability. For someone coming from a Defender, what would you recommend?

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As you've rightly said, the Porsche Cayenne is probably your best option. No other large SUV handles as well as it does, and you get the option of two powerful turbo petrol engines - a 340hp V6 and a 500hp V8. However, if you're not concerned with having the Porsche badge, you should consider the Audi Q8, which is mechanically similar to the Cayenne, but comes in three performance levels, is set up to be more comfortable and usable, and is far more affordable too.At one end, there is the base V6 version, with the same 340hp engine, and at the other extreme is the 650hp, V8-powered RS Q8 Performance. However, Audi is about to launch the SQ8 - with the 500hp V8 - in India, and this could be the sweet spot between price and performance for you.

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