Hi, I am planning to buy a sub-4-metre automatic SUV but am confused between the Maruti Suzuki Brezza VXi AT, Hyundai Venue HX5 DCT, Mahindra XUV 3XO RevX M (O)/Edge, Kia Sonet HTK (O) DCT and Tata Nexon Creative DCA. Which of these would offer the best value for money? Do the reliability and overheating issues associated with DCT/DCA gearboxes still persist? My priorities are good real-world fuel efficiency and a smooth, reliable automatic gearbox. Driver-seat visibility and the availability of a reverse camera are also important considerations. Which would you recommend based on these requirements?

autocar.india

•2d

The decision for an automatic or manual really comes down to your driving conditions. It its a lot of traffic that you have in and around your area then go with an automatic and save yourself the hassle. If however this isn't the case opt for a manual as this will enable you to get a higher variant and thus more convenience features at your budget. The Tata Nexon would suit you just fine and the Pure Plus variant of the diesel automatic would fit nicely within your budget. If you do want more in terms of power and space then opt for the Mahindra XUV 3XO instead, as it has a wider rear seat and a slighly more powerful and refined engine too.

Tata Nexon

Mahindra XUV 3XO

autocar.india

•1h

The BMW 4 Series Convertible M440i xDrive is the one we'd recommend. It's easily the best to drive, with excellent performance from its six-cylinder engine and keen handling to match. The M440i Convertible also has great show value and stands out among other luxury cars. The only thing that works against the BMW is that its interior doesn't feel distinct enough from other BMWs. We are also big fans of the Mini Cooper Convertible. It's got a personality of its own, and is good fun to drive. The turbo-petrol engine gives it sufficient zip, and the Mini characteristic go-kart handling is intact even on the convertible. This means the Mini will put a smile on your face even over everyday drives. It's not the most practical of convertibles you can have, but with the roof down, you can transport four adults for short distances. The Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet 300 4Matic is a pleasant convertible that is more about smooth performance rather than outright driver involvement.

BMW 4 Series Convertible

Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet

Mini Cooper Convertible

autocar.india

•3d

Between the Bayon and Creta, we would recommend the Bayon since your budget is Rs.15 lakh. At this price, you can get a better equipped variant of the Bayon rather than sacrificing creature comforts. The Creta gets the same powertrain as the Bayon and is a bit larger in size. However, the wheelbase is almost identical and space in the rear is not too far off in the Bayon. Also, being a higher variant you get better equipment like auto climate control, reversing camera, keyless entry etc that make the Bayon better value. For the city, the naturally aspirated engine and CVT gearbox is well-suited. Another option to consider is the Maruti Suzuki Brezza in its automatic guise. It gets a smooth engine and gearbox along with a spacious rear seat and you can get the top-spec version in Rs. 15 lakh.

Hyundai Bayon

Hyundai Creta

Maruti Suzuki Brezza