Mahindra XUV 3XO

The Maruti Brezza CNG and Fronx CNG will be more fuel efficient than the Nexon iCNG, and their clutch and gearbox make them friendlier to drive, too. The Brezza is due for a facelift in the coming weeks, so you might want to wait for that to arrive. 

The Kia Sonet diesel will feel punchier to drive (than the CNG options listed above), while being very efficient too. Also, by opting for a diesel, you won't need to wait in long queues to refill CNG. Even the Sonet is due for a generation update, which is likely to be launched this year. 

Another option you could consider is the Mahindra XUV 3XO diesel MX2, which is more spacious than a Sonet. Its ride-handling balance is very impressive; the Sonet, however, has an edge in terms of fuel efficiency.

The Mahindra XUV 3XO REVX A 1.2 Petrol GDI with the manual gearbox would be a good option to consider. It gets a 1.2-litre 131hp turbo-petrol engine that is the most powerful in the segment. It is a light and brisk 6-speed manual gearbox that is easy to use in the city. It is spacious on the inside with comfy, broad seats up front and a good amount of room at the rear. 

Bootspace isn't the best at 364 litres, but if you're primarily going to drive in the city, this shouldn't be a big problem. 

The performance is very good, the ride comfort is excellent, and you get a good amount of kit as well. A panoramic sunroof, LED headlamps, keyless entry with push button start, dual-zone climate control and more. 

While the Mahindra XUV 3XO has a strong and refined engine, the AMT gearbox is not the best performing units in terms of smoothness and response. Quick overtakes on the highway would require a lot more planning with an AMT, and over time, it can get frustrating. 

We would recommend checking out the Hyundai Venue as it gets a diesel engine mated to a 6-speed torque converter gearbox that is a lot better than AMT units. The Venue is also well equipped in its HX5 guise that falls within your budget. It is the newer car overall with a fresh and modern interior. 

It's a shame that the Skoda Kylaq's rear seat space is not quite up to the best in the segment, because otherwise it is a superb compact SUV that scores highly on most other counts. Of the other options, the Nissan Magnite, while capable and a great value for money, feels like a sub-segment lower in terms of quality, space and performance. 

The Mahindra XUV 3XO RevX should be your best bet because it offers both - performance and rear-seat space. In fact, it has one of the most spacious cabins in the segment, although the boot is a bit smaller than others. 

The RevX offers a good feature set as well, along with a few unique styling embellishments, and overall, we feel this is the one you should pick. 

The Kia Seltos is the better pick. Being significantly larger than the Mahindra XUV 3XO, the Seltos offers a roomier cabin and larger boot. The Seltos IVT's engine-gearbox is also superior to the 3X0's diesel-AMT combo. The Seltos IVT delivers a seamless drive experience that the 3XO's AMT just can't match. However, the IVT will not be as fuel efficient as the 3XO diesel. 

We'd urge you to extend your budget for the Seltos IVT in HTK trim that adds in essentials like a rear wiper and defogger. The HTK also gets other features such as steering reach adjust, rear window sunshades and alloy wheels. 

The Mahindra XUV 3XO turbo-petrol makes a good pick for your needs. The engine is strong, and you'll enjoy the performance on your highway and hill drives. A tough build and absorbent suspension are other highlights of the XUV 3XO. What also makes the 3XO well-suited for you is the cabin space. The rear seat is comfortable for 3 adults and legroom is good too. 

Boot space on the XUV 3XO isn't the best, though.