Autocar India
•1d

Hello Autocar India team, I want to thank you for your First Impression articles, detailed reviews, podcasts and other content. Please continue with your impartial reviews. I currently own a 2015 Vento Highline Petrol and still fall in love with the car whenever I take it on long drives. Sadly, there doesn't seem to be much movement in the sedan segment. We can stretch our budget to Rs 40 lakh on-road. Our primary use will be planned or unplanned road trips, with limited city driving. EVs concern me because of battery life and charging infrastructure. Petrol cars are a concern because of E20 and the possibility of higher ethanol blending in the future. Hybrids haven't convinced me either. I also don't want to consider premium hatchbacks like the Creta and Seltos. We have narrowed our choices to the Jeep Meridian Overland or Compass 4x4, although Stellantis' long-term commitment remains a concern; the Kia Sorento Diesel AWD; and the Mahindra XUV 7XO Diesel 4x4. Please share your unbiased recommendation. Thanks and regards, Yashodhan Patel

Verified
•28m

Thank you for your kind words on our content.Of the vehicles on your shortlist, the Kia Sorento Diesel AWD is the best. It's got a strong diesel engine and a smooth gearbox, which make long journeys absolutely effortless. Kia has also packed the Sorento with features that uplift comfort levels inside. The third row isn't the best, though the Jeep Meridian and Mahindra XUV 7XO are also not great in this regard. Kia's proven reliability also makes the Sorento an easy model to recommend for your usage.

VehicleKia Sorento
VehicleJeep Meridian
VehicleMahindra XUV 7XO
Kia Sorento
Kia Sorento
•1d

I’m planning to buy the new VW Taigun Topline MT as my first car. I’m a first-time buyer with no driving experience, but I’m genuinely interested in learning to drive and want a manual transmission rather than an automatic. My annual usage will be around 5,000–7,000km, mostly a mix of city and highway driving, and I intend to keep the car for 10–12 years. Safety is one of my biggest priorities, followed by looks, driving enjoyment and long-term ownership costs. Would you recommend the Taigun Topline MT over alternatives like the Hyundai Creta SX MT, Kia Seltos HTX MT or Duster Adventure? I’m choosing the Taigun because I like its looks, features and driving experience, but I want an honest assessment rather than a recommendation based solely on performance or enthusiast appeal. Would you go ahead with this choice in my situation?

Verified
•1h

As a first time buyer with no experience of driving, consider getting something smaller and more affordable to learn, practice and then upgrade to a car which you can keep and enjoy for 10-12 years. You could consider a sub-10 lakh hatchback first that'll be relatively easy to maintain/repair while you master the art of driving.If you still want to go ahead with the Volkswagen Taigun Topline MT, it is a solidly built, fun-to-drive car. The updated version gets an upgraded air-con which performs very well. Moreover, it is quite spacious yet relatively more compact than similarly priced midsize SUVs, so maneuvering and parking will be quite easy.The Hyundai Creta SX MT and Kia Seltos HTX MT are both excellent alternatives. They offer an airier cabin experience and are backed by their respective service networks, which are wider than VW's. Their 1.5 naturally aspirated petrol manual versions are more responsive in the city, as there is no dull zone before the boost comes in (turbo lag), as you will experience with the 1.0 Taigun; and their manual gearbox and clutch are smoother and effort-free compared to the Taigun's.That said, if your heart is on the Taigun 1.0 MT, go for it, but we'll also recommend you explore the option of buying a relatively smaller, cheaper car to learn and practice driving before spending on the Taigun.

VehicleVolkswagen Taigun
VehicleHyundai Creta
VehicleKia Seltos

Upcoming launch buzz

Community discussions on upcoming launches

•2d

I am confused between waiting for the Skoda Superb and going ahead with the purchase of the Toyota Camry. I am looking for an executive sedan that prioritises rear-seat comfort for my parents, who are senior citizens. Mercedes-Benz and BMW models are outside my budget. My last premium sedan was a Skoda Laura, before it was renamed the Skoda Octavia and eventually discontinued. This car will primarily be used for long-distance travel between two cities or towns. Should I wait for the Skoda Superb or go ahead with the Toyota Camry?

Verified
•13h

Go for the Toyota Camry. Your priorities are rear seat comfort for senior parents and long-distance reliability, and the Camry is the more sensible choice. The hybrid powertrain is smooth, quiet and efficient on highways, and Toyota’s reputation for reliability and service reach is a big advantage for long-term ownership. The rear seat is genuinely comfortable, with good legroom and a relaxed ride, which is exactly what you want for your parents on long journeys.The Skoda Superb is a fantastic car and arguably the better driver’s car, but your usage is rear seat comfort and reliability, not driving dynamics. The Skoda Superb will launch with a diesel engine, which would make it efficient, though we suspect the Camry might be more efficient still. It's also worth noting that Skoda has not confirmed a launch date as yet, so your wait could be longer than you'd like. Pricing remains a question mark too.

VehicleToyota Camry
VehicleSkoda Superb
Toyota Camry
Toyota Camry
•1d

Dear Autocar team, I am planning to buy a petrol automatic SUV priced under Rs 20 lakh. I have been considering the Tata Sierra petrol automatic but am concerned about Tata's after-sales service. My key requirements are comfortable seating for four to five adults, a spacious midsize SUV rather than a compact SUV, strong safety standards and build quality, and modern features such as a 360-degree camera. Which options should I consider?

Verified
•1d

Based on your requirements, the Tata Sierra turbo-petrol automatic is a good fit. It is a genuinely spacious midsize SUV with a wide cabin that comfortably accommodates five adults. Plus, it offers a premium interior with a good feature set, including a 360-degree camera. Safety and build quality are also among its key strengths.Your concern about Tata's after-sales service is understandable, and the experience continues to vary depending on the dealership.If you are looking for alternatives, the Kia Seltos petrol IVT is an excellent option. The petrol engine isn't as powerful, but Kia's ownership experience is generally more consistent compared to Tata's. The Hyundai Creta is due for a full generation change in 2027, so it is not the best time to buy one.Overall, the Sierra turbo-petrol automatic remains the best fit for your requirements. If you are still concerned about after-sales, the Seltos is the safer ownership choice, but you will be compromising on cabin and boot space.

VehicleTata Sierra
VehicleKia Seltos
VehicleHyundai Creta
•2d

I own a 2018 Hyundai Creta 1.6 diesel manual and have been very happy with it. It suits my family of three for city use as well as long road trips, including journeys from Kashmir to Kerala and Jaisalmer. However, I now want to upgrade to something bigger. I don't like the looks of the Toyota Innova HyCross, Mahindra XUV 7XO or Tata Safari. I also have reservations about ladder-frame SUVs I test-drove the Mahindra Scorpio N briefly in traffic and found it moved around more over bad roads than my monocoque Creta. I want something imposing, like the Toyota Fortuner, but am unsure about moving to a ladder-frame SUV. Should I wait for the JSW Combat, which will have monocoque construction, or would that be a risk in terms of reliability? Please advise.

Verified
•1d

The Kia Sorento seems to be an ideal fit for you. It is a feature-loaded offering with hybrid and diesel engine options, and it comes with the flexibility of three rows of seats. Being a monocoque, ride quality is good, the engines are smooth and refined, and its cabin feels richly appointed.The JSW Combat is set to make its debut in India in December. It is a butch-looking plug-in hybrid, five-seater SUV, and is likely to be stuffed with features. You will have to wait to find out how it drives and performs, but on first impressions at least, it seems like a promising option.The Toyota Fortuner is the obvious choice if you want a butch, imposing SUV with proven reliability and a strong ownership track record. It is a proper ladder-frame SUV with excellent road presence, and Toyota's reliability is a major advantage for long-term ownership. The downside is that it is expensive for what it offers, and the ride is not as composed as a monocoque SUV.

VehicleKia Sorento
VehicleJSW Motors Combat
VehicleToyota Fortuner
•3d

I'm planning to buy a new car with an on-road budget of up to Rs. 30 lakh in India. I want a car that offers excellent comfort, low running costs, and a relaxed driving experience for my daily commute. 1. My Driving Profile -Average monthly driving: 2,500 km -Driving conditions: 60% suburban roads and Highway and 40% city traffic -Long-distance trips: One or two trips per month -Current car: 2017 Maruti Suzuki Baleno, manual transmission 2. Comfort and Ergonomics I'm approximately 6 feet tall and currently experience fatigue and leg pain during my daily commute in my manual Baleno. My top priority is to find a car with: -An automatic transmission for easier driving, especially in traffic. -Excellent front-seat comfort and adequate legroom. -Good driving posture, lumbar support, and adjustable seating. -A comfortable suspension setup for daily commuting and long journeys. -Low cabin noise and minimal driver fatigue. 3. Running Costs and Powertrain -Low running costs and excellent overall energy efficiency are important. -I have charging facilities available at home, so I'm open to considering an electric vehicle (EV). -I'm also willing to consider petrol, diesel, or hybrid vehicles if they offer better overall value. -I want to compare energy or fuel costs, maintenance, insurance, and long-term ownership costs. 4. Family Requirements -The car will primarily be used for my daily commute. My family occasionally travels with me, so rear-seat comfort is also important. -I'm open to both 5-seater and 7-seater options, provided the car meets my comfort and cost requirements. 5. Budget and Ownership -Maximum on-road budget: Rs. 30 lakh -I want a reliable car that offers good value for money over long-term ownership. -I plan to use the car for several years, so durability, battery longevity (for EVs), resale value, and total cost of ownership matter. Please suggest a car.

Verified
•1d

Based on your requirements, the Hyundai Creta Electric is a solid choice. With a 2,500 km monthly running and home charging available, an EV makes strong financial sense, and the Creta Electric stands out for its comfort, refinement and ease of ownership. The front seats are well-cushioned with good lumbar support, the driving position is comfortable for taller drivers, and the suspension is well-tuned for both city and highway use. The cabin is quiet, the ride is comfortable, and the overall driving experience is relaxed and effortless, which will significantly reduce fatigue compared to your Baleno. Running costs are low, maintenance is minimal, and Hyundai's service network is strong. The Creta also offers a spacious rear seat and a practical boot, making it suitable for occasional family trips. If you prefer a petrol option, the Kia Seltos 1.5 IVT automatic is the best alternative. It offers excellent seat comfort, an efficient engine, and a comfortable ride, but the Creta Electric is the better long-term ownership proposition given your usage pattern.

VehicleHyundai Creta Electric
VehicleMaruti Suzuki Baleno
VehicleKia Seltos
•2d

Hi Autocar Team, I am confused between the Hyundai Venue HX5 Turbo MT and the Mahindra XUV 3XO AX5 TCMPFi. I am getting a good offer on the Venue. We have owned a Hyundai Grand i10 Nios for the last seven years without any issues. I like the XUV 3XO for its engine and the additional features it offers over the Venue. However, I also like the Venue because I am familiar with its driving experience and refinement. I plan to keep the new car for at least seven years, so I am looking for trouble-free ownership and a good service centre experience. My spouse prefers the rear-seat comfort of the 3XO, especially its under-thigh support and legroom, but dislikes its boot space. We also expect our family to grow in the coming years, so practicality is important. In terms of performance, I am not expecting a race car at this budget. I want a car with decent power that does not feel sluggish or make highway overtaking difficult. It should also offer reasonable mileage in city traffic and a comfortable ride for both front and rear passengers on city roads and highways. My usage will be around 60% city driving, along with a long drive of approximately 500 km every month. We have already considered other cars, and these two are our final choices. Could you please compare them in terms of ownership costs, maintenance, performance, comfort and reliability? It would also help if you could highlight any notable issues I might face with either car that could affect the driving experience or passenger comfort.

Verified
•1d

It seems like you're leaning towards the Mahindra XUV 3XO for its stronger engine performance, better feature set, and a nicer back seat experience. It is a genuinely well-rounded car, and its ride comfort and drive experience make it feel like a much larger, more expensive car. Also, between the two, the XUV 3XO is the much better car for the highway. As you've rightly pointed out, its boot space is lower on paper; however, the actual usable space is quite similar to the Venue's. So, if you like the XUV 3XO, go for it; it is a good buy.The Hyundai Venue HX5 Turbo MT might seem a bit more user-friendly with lighter controls, which make it easier to drive in the city. Moreover, you already have a positive ownership experience with Hyundai, and the Venue continues that formula with a refined turbo petrol engine and a well-built, more modern interior. It has enough performance for confident overtakes on the highway and remains reasonably efficient in city traffic. Between the two, though, the XUV 3XO gives you a big car feel, while the Venue is easier to drive in the city. For similar money, we'd pick the XUV 3XO; however, if you're getting the Venue at a substantially lower discounted price, it is a car you can't go wrong with.

VehicleMahindra XUV 3XO
VehicleHyundai Venue
Mahindra XUV 3XO
Mahindra XUV 3XO
•3d

I am planning to buy a subcompact SUV with an on-road budget of up to Rs. 15 lakh in the NCR. The options I am considering are the Skoda Kylaq, Mahindra XUV 3XO, Hyundai Venue, Maruti Suzuki Brezza and Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor. An automatic transmission is a necessity. I prefer a reliable car with good after-sales service, as I want to avoid frequent visits to service centres. Mileage is not a major concern, as my annual running will be less than 5,000 km. I am evaluating these options against the Skoda Kylaq Sportline, as I am concerned about the E20 fuel-related issues reported by other owners. Which car would you recommend for reliable and hassle-free ownership?

Verified
•1d

Go for the Skoda Kylaq Sportline automatic. Your priorities are clear: reliability, low running costs, an automatic, and minimal service headaches. The Kylaq is a genuinely good driver's car with a proven 1.0 TSI engine and a 6-speed torque converter automatic that is smooth and well suited to city driving. Skoda has improved its service network in NCR, and the Kylaq is a solid product with a good ownership track record.On the E20 concern, do not overthink it. The Kylaq is E20 compliant, and modern engines are engineered with sufficient tolerance for E20. There is no official roadmap beyond E20, and the impact is largely limited to a slight drop in fuel economy.The XUV 3XO is a strong value proposition with more features and a wider cabin, but the Kylaq feels more premium and is the better driver's car. The Brezza and Urban Cruiser Taisor are the safe, reliable choices with excellent service reach, but they are not as engaging to drive and feel less premium inside. The Venue is a good all-rounder, but the Kylaq offers a better driving experience.With your low running costs and focus on reliability, the Kylaq Sportline automatic is the right balance of driving enjoyment, premium feel and long-term ownership confidence.

VehicleSkoda Kylaq
VehicleMahindra XUV 3XO
VehicleMaruti Suzuki Brezza
VehicleToyota Urban Cruiser Taisor