Go for the Tata Safari turbo-petrol. It is far more suited as a seven-seater than the Mahindra XUV 7XO, due to a more spacious third row. Also, the Sierra's touchscreen and user interface are far simpler than the Mahindra's, which can feel a bit overwhelming, at least initially.

While we haven't extensively tested the Safari turbo-petrol, expect single-digit fuel efficiency in urban conditions. It is expected of such a large SUV. If running costs matter, then you could consider the diesel version instead. 

Relatively smaller and easier to drive 7-seater options are the Hyundai Alcazar and Kia Carens Clavis, which come with turbo-petrol and diesel automatic options.

Unfortunately, you won't get a Mahindra XUV 7XO automatic in your budget, and the most affordable variant is around Rs 20 lakh on road. 

The Mahindra Thar Roxx MX3 petrol AT 2WD will fit in your budget, and if that's the SUV you desire, you should go for it. You're right in saying it has just the basic features, but that still includes a touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and many other creature comforts. 

Plus, the combination of petrol engine and torque converter automatic is smooth and punchy - if a little heavy on fuel consumption. 

The Mahindra XUV 7XO is a good option to consider. It is spacious, comfortable and has a smooth ride quality. The XUV 7XO comes with trick new 'Da Vinvi' dampers and hydraulic bump stops. This elevates its ride comfort above the older XUV700. The 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine is refined and has a good amount of power at 203hp, and the 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox is smooth.

The XUV 7XO is well equipped with safety features like multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, hill hold assist, Level 2 ADAS features and more. The top-spec AX7 Luxury variant also gets features like a panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree camera, three 12.3-inch touchscreens, connected car tech, ventilated front and middle row of seats and much more. 

Although the Mahindra XUV 7XO is yet to receive a safety rating. But the older XUV700 had received 5 stars in the Global NCAP crash tests back in 2021, which bodes well for the XUV 7XO too.

Of the two, the Mahindra XUV 7XO is the better pick. The XUV 7XO is packed with tech and is far nicer to drive than the MG Hector, too. Mahindra's engines and gearboxes are highlights, and the 7XO's updated suspension also gives it the edge in ride comfort. Importantly, the 7XO offers a better third-row experience than the Hector Plus. 

That said, the XUV 7XO is not the best 7-seater for the money. Especially in case the third row space and comfort are a deal breaker for you. The Tata Safari offers a more comfortable third row among petrol/diesel SUVs of the segment. 

If you are open to electric, the Mahindra XEV 9S is worth a look. While you could think of it as an all-electric version of the XUV 7XO, the 9S does boast of a better third row. The option to slide its middle row seats makes all the difference to balance second and third row space in the cabin.  

While there are a lot of SUV options that fall within your budget, we've listed the top models worth checking out. Among the monocoque-bodied SUV options, there's Tata's Harrier and Safari, and the Mahindra XUV 7XO. These SUVs are large and have great road presence. Also, being monocoque SUVs, they score well on comfort and refinement. 
 

If you are looking for something more hardcore, there's the option of Mahindra's ladder frame SUVs, namely the Scorpio N and Thar Roxx. These SUVs are big on image and have a toughness about them that's very appealing. 

However, they are not as comfortable as the models listed above. 

All three cars are good choices. The new Mahindra XUV 7XO is feature-packed and very spacious, with the advantage of a third row of seats. However, for city use, it's not as compact or manoeuvrable as the Kia Seltos or Tata Sierra. 

Between the Seltos and Sierra, the Seltos with the 1.5 CVT is ideal for the city, offering a smooth, responsive drive, especially when crawling through the traffic jams Gurugram is known for. 
 

Unfortunately, there are no sedans in the Rs. 30 lakh range. So, you will have to settle for an SUV, which has some good options. 

The SUV that will suit you best is the new Mahindra XUV 7XO, which is the facelift of the XUV700. 

It features new enhancements, including a three-screen display and a suspension that has significantly improved the car's driving dynamics. You can opt for the petrol automatic, which comes with a powerful 2.0-litre engine. It makes both city and highway driving easy, but it is quite heavy on fuel.

 However, given your limited running of around 12,000km a year, it won’t make a major dent in your pocket.
 

At the lower end of the price range, there's the Kia Syros. It's got a very spacious cabin and should accommodate you in reasonable comfort. It's got a refined diesel engine that delivers reasonable power and good fuel economy. 

At the upper end of the price range, you could look at the Mahindra XUV 7XO. It's got an airy cabin and a high roof, so it should fit your requirements. However, many of us did find that the driver's seat doesn't go down as low as we'd like, and this is something you are advised to check for yourself. In terms of engine performance, the XUV 7XO's 2.2-litre diesel unit is great, delivering ample power for highway drives.

If you are open to the MPV body style, the Kia Carens Clavis is also worth a look. It's got a relatively high roof, which should put you at ease. Its diesel engine is also pleasant, offering fair performance with good refinement.