I am planning to upgrade from my existing car (Baleno) to an SUV. My budget is around 15 to 18 lakhs. I am confused between the Honda Elevate automatic and the Hyundai Creta automatic.

Autocar India

•33m

Your usage should determine which Honda you go for, as the City and Elevate are mechanically identical. Both are powered by a 121hp, 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that can be had with either a 6-speed manual or a CVT automatic and are similar in terms of driving experience.If you're going to be primarily using the car in the city and if you are chauffeur-driven, go for the Honda City as it has a more comfortable rear seat and being smaller, it is easier to drive in the city. The City also benefits from a larger boot than the Elevate.However, if you want the elevated driving position of an SUV, the added practicality, more ground clearance, easier ingress/egress to the cabin and a more robust suspension, go for the Honda Elevate.

Honda City

Honda Elevate

Autocar India

•1d

For your requirement, the Tata Harrier does make a strong case, especially coming from a diesel like the Captur. Its diesel engine offers strong torque, which makes highway cruising and overtaking effortless, and the overall ride and stability are very reassuring on long drives as well as broken roads. The spacious cabin and solid build further add to its appeal as a proper upgrade.The Hyundai Creta is easier to drive in the city, offers more features and a smoother overall ownership experience, but it does not feel as robust or as planted as the Harrier at highway speeds. The Mahindra XUV 3XO sits in a segment below, so while it is more compact and easier to manage in the city, it won’t give you the same sense of upgrade in space or road presence. The Tata Sierra has a smaller 1.5-litre diesel engine, which, just like the Creta, won't feel like an upgrade over your Captur.A very important alternative you should consider is the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara or its sibling, the Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder in AWD form. These are very good all-around road cars, and the AWD system adds genuine capability for mild off-roading and slippery conditions by sending power to all four wheels when needed. This makes them more versatile than the Harrier or Creta for rough trails, even if they are not hardcore off-roaders.The trade-off, however, is performance. The petrol engines in these AWD versions are not very torquey, especially compared to the Harrier’s diesel, which means they don’t feel as effortless on highways or when fully loaded.

Tata Harrier

Hyundai Creta

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Tata Sierra

Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara

Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder

Autocar India

•15h

Between the two, the Hyundai Creta IVT is the better choice, largely due to Hyundai’s wide service network and reputation for hassle-free ownership. You will appreciate its light steering and the IVT’s gentle creep function. The 1.5-litre engine is refined, and the IVT makes good use of the available performance. Ride quality is comfortable, and it is easy to step in and out of, which is important for you. Hyundai’s wide service network also means shorter trips for routine care and faster parts availability, keeping ownership simpler. Opt for the latest model, which was launched in 2024.Also, ideally, buy from sources like Hyundai’s own certified used car platform or trusted outlets like Spinny, which can offer you a warranty.During the test drive, do three park-reverse cycles and a tight U-turn; check thigh support, lumbar comfort, and that brake-to-accelerator transitions feel effortless. Also, ask the dealer about any remaining warranty, along with the terms and conditions of the used-car warranty.

Hyundai Creta