You're right to say the Kia Carens Clavis is better as a 6/7 seater and as a city car, thanks to its more space-efficient shape yet smaller dimensions. Spec for spec, the HTK (O) plus is probably better equipped than the Mahindra XUV700 AX5, too. 

However, if the Mahindra XUV700 was already your wishlist car and you're getting it at the price you want, you should go for it. It definitely has more road presence, a more powerful engine and comes with the peace of mind of a 5-star NCAP rating. 

Its third row is not amazing, but if your family usage is limited, a little shuffling might be worth everything else it offers. 

• Maruti Suzuki Brezza ZXI AT: Down on wow features to the Venue, but has a smoother gearbox, plusher ride, and more comfortable seats.
• Skoda Kylaq Signature+ AT: Again, not as well-equipped as the Venue, but it has a smoother gearbox and punchier engine. Space at the back is less, but it shouldn't be a deal breaker for you.
• Kia Sonet HTX Petrol DCT: It is due for replacement within a year, but it is very competent. Packs in plenty of tech and shares its engine and gearbox with the Venue, and is actually a better value for money. Space is less at the back, but it shouldn't be a deal breaker for you.
• Mahindra XUV 3XO REVX A: Stronger engine, lots of features, and feels tougher in its build. Boot space is less than the Hyundai car.

The Kia Carens Clavis is the ideal pick for your requirements. It's a well-packaged MPV that offers comfortable seating across all three rows. A one-touch operation for the middle row seat fold makes access to the last row easy. Also, there is ample movement built into the middle row to balance space for all passengers. 

The Clavis is also easy to drive and doesn't intimidate as some three-row SUVs can. From the Clavis line-up, the Turbo DCT HTX(O) is the one to buy.

Of the other three-row petrol-auto options, there's the Hyundai Alcazar, MG Hector Plus, Mahindra XUV 7XO and Tata Safari.

Without knowing your specific requirements, it is hard to give a definitive pick. Broadly speaking, however, the Mahindra XUV7XO diesel AT is the more powerful and exciting choice. 

Its 2.2-litre diesel engine's 185hp and 450Nm are significantly higher than the Kia Seltos' 1.5-litre diesel's 115hp and 250Nm figures. The XUV 7XO diesel feels more effortless, especially on highway drives where the Seltos feels just adequate. 

Both models do use smooth torque converter automatic transmissions, but it's the Mahindra car that is more responsive and quicker to shift to. 

The Skoda Kushaq is a competent mid-sized SUV that stands out for its driving experience. Its 1.0 and 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engines deliver punchy performance, and handling is also slick and fun. The Kushaq also feels tough in its build and comes with the reassurance of strong safety ratings. On the flip side, the Kushaq feels smaller than many like-priced rivals and isn't ideal as a five-seater. 

Skoda will introduce an updated version of the Kushaq later this month. We expect the model to get a few styling revisions outside and more features, too. It might include a panoramic sunroof and a segment-first rear seat massage function. 

The updated Kushaq will also get an uprated air conditioner that will provide stronger cooling, which has been one of the model's weaknesses since launch. While the engine options will continue as is, the smaller engine's 6-speed automatic transmission is expected to make way for a more efficient 8-speed unit. 

To sum up, the Kushaq should be on your list if a fun drive experience is a priority. If space, comfort and features are important, consider the Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta and Tata Sierra. 
 

Since 80% of your driving will be in city conditions, a smooth driving experience is also something you must give due weightage to. The Kia Seltos IVT and Hyundai Creta IVT deliver that, and top our list of recommendations for you. 

Sure, the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine's 115hp isn't great, but real-world performance is actually very nice with brisk acceleration and very smooth responses. The CVT (IVT, as Hyundai and Kia call the gearbox type) is also very smooth. Also, it is free from the rubberband effect (sharp rise in revs without a significant rise in road speed), which this type of gearbox is usually notorious for.   

Of the two models, it's the new Kia Seltos that's the more wholesome package, offering more rear seat space and better ride comfort. Your budget allows you to go for a higher trim level, getting you lots of tech and comfort features.