Best petrol-manual mid-size sedans under Rs 13 lakh

5. Skoda Rapid                    7/10

The Skoda Rapid is a bit long in the tooth, but you have to hand it to the Czech brand for keeping it fresh with updates like the recent reintroduction of the top-spec Rapid Monto Carlo variant. As ever, the Rapid stands out for its tough build that makes it feel really premium. Equipment levels are also quite good and the 105hp petrol engine does its job well enough. A replacement isn’t due till 2020 and until then, the Rapid will have to soldier on.

4. Toyota Yaris                  7/10

The Toyota Yaris might lack emotion but makes for a safe buy, in more ways than one – the Yaris stands out for its class-leading safety equipment, with seven airbags as standard. Space and comfort are not near class-best levels and the engine is unexciting. Ride comfort on the Yaris is impressive although the steering feels a bit heavy for urban environs.

3. Maruti Suzuki Ciaz                     8/10

Maruti Suzuki’s sensible Ciaz is fresh from a facelift. The mid-size sedan now has more features, which adds to the premium feel of the spacious interiors. Its new 105hp, 1.5-litre petrol motor is smooth, responsive and efficient, thanks in part to the mild-hybrid tech on offer. However, it’s not an exciting motor. Exceptional rear-seat space is also part of the Ciaz experience as is the aggressive price tag.

2. Honda City                        8/10

The Honda City has been around for a while but it is still among the best cars in the segment. Petrolheads will love the 119hp, 1.5-litre petrol VTEC engine’s rev-happy nature and the handling setup, though the ride quality could be better. The roomy cabin, especially the rear seat area, and comfy seats are among other highlights. Top-spec Citys are well-equipped but on the pricey side.

1. Hyundai Verna                 8/10

The Hyundai Verna possesses many strengths. Smart styling outside, a well-finished and feature-rich cabin inside and refined engines under the bonnet make the Hyundai our pick of the petrol mid-size sedans. The driving experience is pleasant as well, and the dynamics are also fair, though we’d recommend opting for the more powerful 123hp, 1.6-litre petrol engine over the 100hp, 1.4-litre unit. Unfortunately, rear-seat space in the Verna is at a premium.

(All prices, ex-showroom, Delhi)

(*Skoda Rapid and Toyota Yaris prices are ex-showroom, pan-India)