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.

Of these two, we'd recommend you choose the Hyundai Venue HX5. The Tata Nexon has the slight edge on driving enjoyment with its punchier engine, sharper steering and better-tuned suspension, but in most other areas, the Venue excels. 

The HX5 variant is decently well equipped, and the Venue diesel in general is smoother, more refined, better built and of higher interior quality. Plus, Hyundai's aftersales and service are known to offer a better experience than Tata's.

You should choose between the Maruti Suzuki Baleno and the updated Tata Punch. The Baleno scores very well on low-speed ride comfort, and seat comfort is also very good. The Baleno's engine is peppier, and its AMT is also nicer in typical city driving. 

The Tata Punch AMT is a model of interest because of its elevated seating position. The high seating position makes it easy to get into and out of the car. The Punch feels tough, and ride comfort is good, particularly on bad patches of road. While both models get 6 airbags as standard, the Punch additionally boasts a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating. 

 

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.  

Your observations are correct. Neither the Tata Sierra nor the Kia Seltos has been crash tested by Global NCAP or Bharat NCAP yet. But Tata Motors cars have had a good track record with these tests. While the Kia Seltos uses an all-new global platform that should be safer than the outgoing model.

Both SUVs feature the latest in active and passive safety features, which should be a reassurance, and thus, on the safety front, you won't be wrong to go with either. As for other factors, the Sierra is certainly the more spacious of the two and edges the Seltos out on comfort as well. 

However, in most other areas, it's the Seltos that comes out on top, including, as you have pointed out, after-sales experience. The Sierra is being produced at the ex-Ford plant in Sanand, Gujarat. It is said to have higher manufacturing standards, and the brand has been committed to improving its after-sales service across the country, but the results of that will take some time to show.

Unfortunately, there aren't many cars that would meet all those requirements under Rs 13 lakh. You could increase your budget and get a more premium offering, or be prepared to sacrifice a few things and stick with your budget. 

Within your budget, your two best bets are the Nissan Magnite and Renault Kiger, which both offer exceptional value for money. They come with 1.0-litre turbo petrol engines and smooth CVT auto gearboxes, and if driven carefully, can deliver good fuel economy. Their touchscreens are decent but not great, and it's a similar story with their audio systems; neither gets a sunroof. 

The Hyundai Exter and Tata Punch facelifts are more affordable but not spacious enough for five, and get clunky AMT auto gearboxes. 

Yes, with the Tata Punch Facelift, which is launching on January 13, the sub-compact SUV will finally get a stronger turbo petrol engine option, which has been lacking in the car so far. 

As in the Tata Nexon, this will be mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox, which means the two cars will have identical powertrains. However, it is likely that, for the same price, you will get a lower-spec Nexon, compared to the Punch. 

So, it comes down to your budget and your preference - if you like more features and don't mind a smaller vehicle, you should get the Punch. However, the Nexon is far more spacious - especially in the back seat and boot - and it's more comfortable too. So, if you value that and don't mind skipping a few features, it would be a worthy upgrade to your Tiago diesel.