I want to buy a new Mahindra XUV 3XO but am confused between the petrol and diesel variants. My monthly average run is 400-500 km. Which fuel option should I choose?

autocar.india

•4h

A correction, first. The Maruti Suzuki Fronx does not come with a CVT. The base 1.2-litre petrol engine is offered with an AMT, while the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol gets a torque-converter auto combination. Both versions are fuel-efficient for their respective engine type. However, given your priorities, the Fronx AMT makes more sense. It isn't the slickest gearbox, but it is smooth enough for everyday city driving. What really strengthens the Fronx AMT's case is its fuel economy, which is comparable to that of a manual car. You will not have any issues with spare parts or service costs. The Fronx Turbo AT offers a smoother, punchier experience, but fuel economy takes a hit. The Honda Amaze CVT is very smooth and refined, making for a practical package. However, mileage isn't as good as the Fronx AMT, and long-term ownership costs will be higher than those of a Maruti, too.The Mahindra XUV 3XO with the torque-converter automatic is an exciting option, but doesn't fit your key requirements. The turbo-petrol engine and torque converter auto combo isn't particularly efficient.

Maruti Suzuki Fronx

Honda Amaze

Mahindra XUV 3XO

autocar.india

•1d

Get the Maruti Suzuki Fronx petrol. It fits under Rs. 15 lakh easily, is very easy to drive in the city, and gives good real-world mileage, so your running costs stay low without the fuss of CNG or charging. Maruti’s huge service network also keeps ownership simple for many years. The flip side is it isn’t very exciting to drive, and the rear isn’t the widest, but as a first, no-drama car, it just works.If your daily drive is mostly city and you have a private parking spot with power, an EV will save the most per km. Look at the Tata Tiago EV for the cheapest entry, or the Tata Punch EV for a more solid small SUV feel. If you do long highway trips or 1,000+ km a month, diesel makes sense - the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet and Mahindra XUV 3XO diesels are the pick. If you only want rock-bottom fuel costs and don’t mind slower performance, CNG works - Maruti Wagon R CNG for city or Ertiga if you need 7 seats.

Maruti Suzuki Fronx

Tata Punch EV

Hyundai Venue

Mahindra XUV 3XO

autocar.india

•2d

Both are excellent choices, but given your penchant for performance, we would lean towards the XUV 3XO. The Mahindra has a lot going for it - the most powerful engines (petrol or diesel) in the segment, a long wheelbase and well tuned chassis that delivers a great blend of ride quality, stability and fun dynamics, a weighty steering with decent feedback, and a very spacious cabin. While all the engines are strong, since you do a lot of outstation travel, perhaps the diesel is the better choice - but test drive both and take your pick.The Sonet is the better all-rounder, with greater refinement, flashier features, better fuel economy and arguably stronger reliability and aftersales service quality. Spec for spec, it could even be better value for money, too. However, its back seat is nowhere near as spacious and the ride quality is very firm and choppy, which could become an issue on longer drives. Plus, it isn't quite as engaging to drive as the Mahindra car, and thus we would recommend the XUV 3XO for your upgrade from the Swift.

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Kia Sonet