I want to buy a car. I’m a first-time car buyer, and I’m not sure of the exact budget yet, but I’m thinking about ₹10-12 lakh. Most of my driving will be on weekend trips and some in the city. From what I’ve seen online, I like the Tata Nexon and 3XO. I’ve driven the Nexon a lot and liked it, but I have no reference for the 3XO. I don’t want to buy a Maruti because my father has a Baleno, and I’ve driven that a lot too. I’m looking for a manual car and, as infrastructure is not adequate, I’m not interested in an EV. What car should I buy?

Autocar India

•7w

A compact SUV is a good first car to buy. The sub 4-meter footprint makes it easy to manage in crowded streets, and most of the models today offer sufficient space inside and a good level of performance.

Which car you buy really comes down to some specific requirements, since you have already experienced the Tata Nexon and like it, you can safely go ahead and buy it. The car is a good all-rounder; however, if you would like livelier performance and more space for rear passengers, then the Mahindra XUV 3XO is the better option, just bear in mind the mileage will not be as good as the Nexon.

Explore cars mentioned

Tata

Nexon

from ₹8.32 Lakh

Mahindra

XUV 3XO

from ₹8.37 Lakh

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Latest questions people are discussing

Rishabh

•1d

I am looking to buy a car which has an SUV touch, feels tough and is easy to drive in narrow or tier-II cities. Travelling is around 500-700km per month maximum, mostly within city driving. Budget around ₹12 to ₹13.5 lakh. It can be low on features as I am elderly, but needs a good feel, touch and driving comfort.

Autocar India

•8h

The Tata Nexon would be an ideal choice considering your requirements. It has a sense of toughness, especially over bad roads, is compact enough for narrow streets and comes with a modern cabin with the necessary creature comforts.This Tata car also offers a soft and comfy seat set at an ideal height, making it easy to get in and out of. Since your driving is fairly low, a petrol version would be the ideal choice. The Creative +S variant will fit in your budget and get you a good set of features too. If you want an automatic, there is also an AMT option that won't be as feature-loaded but will give you the convenience of an auto.

Tata Nexon

Hardik

•3d

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

•1d

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

Shubh

•1d

Hi everyone, I’m planning to buy a compact SUV automatic for city driving in Delhi NCR with occasional highway trips. I’m confused between the Mahindra XUV 3XO TGDi AT and the Skoda Kylaq Signature+ AT. My priorities are: smooth automatic for traffic, good ride comfort for NCR roads, reliable ownership and reasonable maintenance, and decent mileage. Would love to hear feedback from owners or experts on which would be the better long-term choice.

Autocar India

•8h

Go for the Skoda Kylaq Signature+ AT. In Delhi traffic, it's automatic is very smooth, and the ride is mature on broken roads, and although not as supple as the Mahindra XUV 3XO, it is not a sore point. The 6-speed torque converter is known to be reliable and futureproof, as most torque converters are.For your stop‑and-go NCR commute, the Kylaq's calibration makes creeping and low‑speed shifts feel natural, reducing head‑nod in queues. You’ll also appreciate the 446‑litre boot on occasional highway trips. Ownership is predictable with 15,000 km/1‑year service intervals, and you can add an extended warranty (up to 6 years; confirm coverage in your city). Expect roughly 9kpl in Delhi traffic and 13kpl on relaxed highway runs at 90-100kph.The one thing you give up is the XUV 3XO TGDi’s stronger low‑end punch and overall power; the Kylaq AT feels calmer off the line and asks for kickdown for quick overtakes.If you prioritise a punchier engine and more rear seat space, consider the Mahindra XUV 3XO AX7 TGDi AT instead, but if that is not a high priority, the Kylaq is more enjoyable to drive.

Skoda Kylaq

Mahindra XUV 3XO

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