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Delhi
PA

Pancham

1w

I am planning to buy a car on-road around 10-10.5 lakh. My drive is less than 200km per month, with occasional highway drives. I want a low-maintenance car that doesn't require money even if it is not being driven or kept still, as I mostly use a two-wheeler. I live in Chandigarh. A few options that I am considering are Baleno, Kia Sonet, Exter, Fronx, and Punch. All car agencies are available near my house.

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
1w
Since you mostly use your two-wheeler and the car is only for occasional and limited use, we recommend getting a compact SUV, as at least it will be a bit more enjoyable on your highway drives. Of these shortlisted cars, we would recommend either the Kia Sonet or the Maruti Suzuki Fronx, as they both offer a relatively strong 1.0-litre turbo-petrol option. which will be beneficial on the highway, where the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engines may feel a little out of breath.
Both cars are relatively reliable, although historically Maruti has had the advantage in this area, with lower maintenance costs overall. We don't recommend leaving any car for too long without driving it, as that would lead to issues and consequently expenses. This should preferably be done at least once a week, even for a short drive around the block.
Maruti Suzuki Fronx

Maruti Suzuki Fronx

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MK

Monica Khanna

6d

Hi,team autocorrect,I am planning to buy a automatic xar in budget of 10-12 lakhs.Most of my travel in city area with high traffic. Average running is around 600 Km per month.Previously I owe altroz dct with which I met with an accident due to reason I want to replace that and moreover it's average is also main issue. Please suggest

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Abhay Pota

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What would be the best automatic SUV under ₹20 lakh with good mileage, a 5-star safety rating and a comfortable rear seat for 3 people? 90% city driving with occasional highway drives.

Autocar India team

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Verified
1h

Go for the Honda Elevate VX CVT. It combines a 5-star JNCAP safety rating, smooth city-friendly CVT, and a wide, flat rear bench that can seat three adults comfortably.With 90% city use, the Elevate’s CVT makes stop-and-go driving smooth and jerk-free, which reduces fatigue. Expect about 11-12 kpl in the city and 15-16 kpl on highways from the CVT, so your occasional trips won’t sting on fuel. The rear seat is broad with a near-flat floor and supportive cushioning, so three medium-built adults can sit side-by-side more comfortably than in many midsize SUVs. You can get the top variant within your budget, and there are currently good offers available on the Elevate as well.The one thing you give up is outright punch on fast highways, as overtakes have to be more planned than turbo petrol rivals.

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Akhil Singh

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I am looking for an EV as my daily travel is around 75 km. I have a 3.3kW charging facility free at my office, plus a fast DC charger nearby. My budget is flexible as I am exploring the new Tata Punch EV, Nexon EV and Curvv EV, considering the ₹3.5 lakh discount on the Curvv EV. What should be the logical choice, considering I don’t have much experience in driving, hardly, for 4-5 months as of now?

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
1h

Among the options you mentioned, the Tata Punch EV Long Range is the most logical choice. It is compact, easy to manoeuvre and park, and its smooth electric power delivery makes city driving very simple for someone with limited driving experience. With your daily running and office charging facility, range should never be a concern. The new car is also very well-priced and a great value for money, thanks to the price cut compared to the older car.The Tata Nexon EV is a good step up if you want more space and a slightly more premium feel. It offers a bigger cabin and boot, which can be useful if you regularly travel with family.The Tata Curvv EV becomes attractive because of the ₹3.5 lakh discount, but it is a larger car and may feel slightly intimidating to drive initially.

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Posted on: 6 Mar 2026