Kia Sonet Petrol 1.2 HTK+(O)

We would suggest you go ahead with the Skoda Kylaq. The Kylaq comes with a torque convertor gearbox, which is the smoothest type of autobox around, you will really appreciate this in heavy city traffic. Moreover, in city conditions, a torque convertor gearbox is also likely to give you a better and more reliable long-term service experience than a dual clutch transmission. 

The Kylaq is also newer than the Kia Sonet, and since you are keeping the car for a longer period of time, this could help retain value better. The Sonet will also be updated in about a year, so you will very soon have an older car.  

For your usage of around 300 km per month, purely in city conditions, it makes more sense to go for a simpler and more fuss-free setup rather than a turbo petrol with a DCT.

The Kia Sonet 1.0 turbo DCT is a good car. But this combination is better suited for higher usage and mixed driving, where you can actually enjoy its performance. In heavy city traffic, especially in Delhi, DCT gearboxes can feel a bit sensitive in slow crawling conditions, and with your low running, you won’t really benefit from what it offers.

In comparison, the Maruti Fronx 1.2 AMT is a simpler and more reliable option for your kind of usage. It is easier to live with in the long run, especially since your running is low and mostly in stop-go traffic. While the AMT is not as smooth as a DCT and performance is modest, it is perfectly adequate for daily city use.

Overall, for your usage, the Fronx AMT is the more practical and stress-free choice. The Sonet turbo DCT makes sense only if you specifically want better performance and are comfortable with a more complex setup.

Go for the Honda Amaze V MT; within your ₹7-10 lakh, it fits a first-time buyer best with easy driving, proven reliability, a 420‑litre boot, and your Honda preference.

Because you’re new to car ownership, the Amaze’s light controls and calm ride make daily driving simpler; its length under 4,000 mm keeps parking stress low. 

Within ₹7-10 lakh, the S MT sits mid-variant, so you don’t compromise as much on basics, whereas a Kia Sonet at this price is closer to entry-level. The 420‑litre boot is handy for luggage on trips. Honda’s typical 10,000 km/1‑year service rhythm keeps maintenance planning straightforward.

The one thing you give up is the Sonet’s taller driving position and extra ground clearance, which some prefer for rough roads and speed breakers in smaller towns.

If you prioritise a high seat and rough‑road ability over boot space and sedan comfort, consider the Kia Sonet HTK 1.2 petrol instead, within the same ₹7-10 lakh band.

On the test drive, check low‑speed clutch feel in stop‑go traffic and cabin noise at 80 km/h. Also, sit four adults and verify the 420‑litre boot swallows two 25‑inch suitcases.

The Kia Sonet GTX+ 1.0-turbo DCT you’ve booked does overlap with the entry-level HTE (O) variant of the Seltos. The Seltos comes quite well equipped for a base model, with features like a 10.25-inch infotainment screen with wireless connectivity, cruise control and even paddle shifters for the IVT. However, you will miss out on several features compared to the Sonet GTX+, such as ADAS, Bose audio and ventilated front seats. If features are important to you, then stick with the Sonet; otherwise, the Seltos is a good choice.

The Seltos is the newer car, while the Sonet is now due for a refresh. Ride quality and cabin space will also be far better in the Seltos. Since it will mostly be driven in the city, the naturally aspirated engine is more than adequate in terms of performance, and the IVT offers a seamless experience. Do a test drive of the Seltos before you decide.