Tata Nexon Diesel Pure + S MT

After the EV, the turbo-petrol-DCA is the second-best iteration in the Nexon range. The drive experience is smooth and gearbox is seamless, although it is not the most refined in the segment. Of course, being a sub-4-metre car, manoeuvring it in town or parking in tight spots will be easier than a Sierra, and like you've mentioned, opting for an automatic comes with added convenience. Tata has done well to update the Nexon's interiors with modern features and tech, so even though it is an old platform, it is still up-to-speed with times. If you like the Nexon DCA, go for it - it'll be a good upgrade from your outgoing Maruti Ritz.

While you can do an aftermarket fitment of a CNG tank and system to a lot of cars, you are better off getting a factory-fitted system in the long run. Being designed, calibrated and tested in-house by the manufacturer means it will deliver optimal performance and efficiency and will be easier to maintain under warranty. The Tata Nexon iCNG is an excellent option for a number of different reasons. For one, its under-floor dual CNG tank design means you get a usable boot. It will not be the case in any aftermarket option, where the CNG tank will take up most of your boot space. 

The Nexon also has a powerful 1.2-litre turbocharged engine, which means it still has decent performance, even when running on CNG, which will be helpful for your highway-focused usage, while still delivering good mileage. And finally, Tata Motors offers a wide variety of trim levels even for its CNG offerings, and the Creative+ PS variant is pretty well kitted out. 

If you are satisfied with the Tata experience, you could consider the Tata Sierra. As your usage is on the higher side and you already use a diesel Nexon, we would recommend going for the 1.5-litre diesel with the six-speed torque converter automatic.

The Sierra is roomier than the Nexon and offers the comfortable seating you are looking for, yet it isn’t so large as to become a chore on your long city commute. The diesel engine is grunty for both city and highway use, and the automatic gearbox shifts smoothly. The ride and handling balance is also excellent, making it a very enjoyable SUV to drive.

A mid-spec Adventure+ comes with all the necessities, along with features like a panoramic sunroof and a 360-degree camera. Importantly, it also gets a reclining rear seat and a thigh-support extension for the front seats, both of which improve seating comfort. Do take a test drive before committing to buying.

The Mahindra XUV 3XO feels more polished than the Tata Nexon in many ways. The Mahindra is a bit better to drive, thanks to a smoother engine and more absorbent suspension. It also has a roomier cabin, and luggage space isn't bad despite the significant difference in capacity.  

The Tata Nexon diesel has its share of highlights too. It has a more responsive engine as well as sportier handling.

The Nexon Creative and XUV 3XO AX5 are well equipped for the money, but there are feature differences. The 3XO AX5 packs in an electric sunroof while the Nexon Creative gets a crisp 360-degree camera.

All things considered, it's the Mahindra XUV 3XO diesel that we'd recommend. 
 
 

Between the Tata Punch and Tata Nexon, the Nexon is much better, purely because it has a more comfortable back seat and is a better highway car for long trips. Yes, indeed, Tata Motors' service reputation is not good, but what we understand is that it is improving, especially in the last 6 months. 

If you want to play it safe and want absolute peace of mind, then the Maruti-Suzuki Brezza is a good option. It has a spacious cabin, good boot space and is easy to drive in the city. The 1.5 litre naturally aspirated (NA) engine feels a bit weak on the highway, but you can live with that lack of power if you’re only doing 3-4 long-distance trips a year. And over 10 years, the Brezza is likely to be more reliable and easier on your pocket