[Nonstop-driver]

Hi all,

My Dad currently drives a Honda City ZX 2008 model. The ODO reads about 2,70,000 km Yea you read that right
It is extremely well maintained and still drives like a charm but we are concerned about reliability and safety and are looking to replace it now.

I'll get straight to the point then. My Dad is not fussy about tech or driveability. His priority includes value for money proposition and on road reliability. The other family vehicles are Hyundai i10 and a 2017 Creta SX AT-D.

Must Haves in the new car:
1. Status symbol/ market perception - equivalent or more than Honda City ZX. I understand this is subjective but what I mean is premium hatchbacks are kind of ruled out but stuff like top model Ciaz is not (this could be tricky to explain)
2. Large boot. My mother loves to carry the house so the car never runs an inch empty on the highway. City offered a generous 500ltr boot which he would like to carry over.
3. On-road support in tier 2/3 towns - although he lives in close vicinity of dealerships and FNGs, he travels to tier 2 towns in Rajasthan quite often and would like to have peace of mind if something goes wrong. With Honda, he had an issue twice where the local mechanics didn't even want to touch the car. Although this was a few years ago and things might be different now.

Preferences but not mandatory
1. High GC, high seating position. Not mandatory, but good to have.
2. Automatic. Haven't ruled out manuals but any AT (even AMT) would be good to have.
3. Petrol engine, but open to diesels as well. As I said drivability is not the ask and since he has always used a petrol vehicle, it will be preferred.
4. Atleast 2 air bags but more the better. A good rear view/ 360 camera.

Shortlist
Based on the above, what I've in mind so far is:
1. Kia Sonet / Seltos (decision point based on size, not engine options)
2. Hyundai Venue / Creta (decision point based on size, not engine options)
3. Tata Nexon / Harrier / Hexa (decision point based on size, not engine options)
4. MG Hector
5. Jeep Compass
6. Maruti Scross / Ciaz

Experience so far
With an hour in hand last weekend, we headed out with a blank canvas. The first halt was Joshi Kia Chandigarh.

Kia Sonet / Seltos
Great first impression. Neatly put up vehicles which you can touch and feel to satisfaction. Knowledgable salesman too. Seltos is a likely candidate but Sonet looks good too, albeit less space. We couldn't do a TD but this is mostly sorted. Can narrow down on the variant based on TD and pricing.

Tata stable
I was most excited about this. Vehicles I had in mind were Harrier, Nexon, Hexa and Safari. But the Tata dealership we visited had only Tiago and Safari on display. No other demo or test vehicle. Heck they didn't even have a salesman to spare. Really bad experience but haven't written off Tata yet. Will cover it in the next visit. I really feel Harrier ticks most of our boxes and brings better VFM than Seltos.

On the new Tata Safari - looks very similar to Harrier. The one display had off-white interiors which did not look good or practical. Pano sunroof looked like a cool party trick but we are past that bend.

Honda
Honda showroom was adjacent so we went for old times sake. Nothing of interest. Showroom was deserted. 3 variants each of City and Amaze on display. The new City made some sense financially. 14-15lakhs OTR, looks good, feels home. But then came the bomb - no deliveries until April. Some production issues. Very negative vibe overall.

Nexa
The last stop for the day was Nexa. Mainly to check out S-Cross. Looked and felt good but the boot is a severe disappointment. While there, Ciaz made some sense too but the more we looked into it, the quality difference became apparent. Anyway, S-Cross is still in contention subject to boot space restriction.

We had to call it a day post this but next visits would include:

1. A proper Tata dealership for Harrier and potentially Nexon
2. MG for Hector
3. Jeep for Compass
4. Hyundai for Creta and their new 7 seater launch

Although I've a strong feeling it will come down to Seltos vs Harrier.

- Anything I'm missing or should add to my list?
- Any idea if buying in March can lead to more discounts (year end sales target kind of thing?)?
- Lastly, is it worth hunting for Compass MY2020 to maybe find something under 18-18.5lakh OTR?

EDIT: I completely missed Mahindra. The XUV300/ 500 is also on the list to checkout.

[ashis89]

Originally Posted by Nonstop-driver

Hi all,
Must Haves in the new car:
1. Status symbol/ market perception - equivalent or more than Honda City ZX. I understand this is subjective but what I mean is premium hatchbacks are kind of ruled out but stuff like top model Ciaz is not (this could be tricky to explain)
2. Large boot. My mother loves to carry the house so the car never runs an inch empty on the highway. City offered a generous 500ltr boot which he would like to carry over.
3. On-road support in tier 2/3 towns - although he lives in close vicinity of dealerships and FNGs, he travels to tier 2 towns in Rajasthan quite often and would like to have peace of mind if something goes wrong. With Honda, he had an issue twice where the local mechanics didn't even want to touch the car. Although this was a few years ago and things might be different now.

For #2, the boot size of most of the cars in the list would be smaller than the City. Exceptions would be Hector to some extent. Since you have a Creta in your garage, the boot space of the Seltos and new Creta would be very similar. Harrier would be slightly bigger.

For #3, check the service coverage of KIA in the smaller towns. Since it is a new brand, it's service coverage is still small. Hyundai (and of course Maruti) will have an advantage here.

Edit: Given your requirement, one strong contender would be the Maruti XL6 if you are okay with the 'van'-ish looks.

[FlashMustang]

Originally Posted by Nonstop-driver

Must Haves in the new car:
1. Status symbol/ market perception - equivalent or more than Honda City ZX. I understand this is subjective but what I mean is premium hatchbacks are kind of ruled out but stuff like top model Ciaz is not (this could be tricky to explain)
2. Large boot. My mother loves to carry the house so the car never runs an inch empty on the highway. City offered a generous 500ltr boot which he would like to carry over.
3. On-road support in tier 2/3 towns - although he lives in close vicinity of dealerships and FNGs, he travels to tier 2 towns in Rajasthan quite often and would like to have peace of mind if something goes wrong. With Honda, he had an issue twice where the local mechanics didn't even want to touch the car. Although this was a few years ago and things might be different now.

Preferences but not mandatory
1. High GC, high seating position. Not mandatory, but good to have.
2. Automatic. Haven't ruled out manuals but any AT (even AMT) would be good to have.
3. Petrol engine, but open to diesels as well. As I said drivability is not the ask and since he has always used a petrol vehicle, it will be preferred.
4. Atleast 2 air bags but more the better. A good rear view/ 360 camera.

Shortlist
Based on the above, what I've in mind so far is:
1. Kia Sonet / Seltos (decision point based on size, not engine options)
2. Hyundai Venue / Creta (decision point based on size, not engine options)
3. Tata Nexon / Harrier / Hexa (decision point based on size, not engine options)
4. MG Hector
5. Jeep Compass
6. Maruti Scross / Ciaz

Nice write-up and a good shortlist.
Adding a few more options that can be considered.

1. Toyota Yaris.
Your Must Haves
Status symbol/ market perception - Check
Large boot - If the car is for two people, the Yaris comes with a 60:40 foldable rear seats, which can help expand the boot space.
On-road support in tier 2/3 towns - I might not be very sure on this one, but if you regularly service your Toyotas, you might not be in need of such support.
Your preferences
High GC and high seating position won't be met.
Automatic - Check. A reliable CVT automatic.
Petrol engine - Check.
Atleast 2 air bags but more the better - Check. The VX CVT comes with 7 air bags.

2. Maruti Suzuki Ertiga/XL6
Your Must Haves
Status symbol/ market perception - Not sure - depends on your perception
Large boot - Check. Ertiga's seats can be folded down to create a ton of room.
On-road support in tier 2/3 towns - With Maruti's service network, this should get taken care of.
Your preferences
High GC and high seating position - Check
Automatic - Check (though this would be a four speed torque converter, but reliable nevertheless)
Atleast 2 air bags but more the better - Comes with 2 air bags


From your list, the Seltos/Creta twins would be a good option. I might suggest sticking with the petrol CVT or the diesel torque converter, if you are going with these options. If it were me, I might choose the diesel automatic variants from here.

If the choice comes between the Venue/Sonet twins, I might recommend the Sonet Diesel torque converter.

From the Hyundai/Kia stable, I've basically eliminated the DCT gear boxes from a reliability perspective.

Again, as ashis89 pointed out, check out the service coverage for Kia.

A lightly used Jeep Compass might also be a good choice from your shortlist, but, again, I'm worried about the service coverage. Paying the premium for a first hand Jeep Compass might not be a great choice. If you are choosing this, the diesel manual seems to be the preferred choice. Check out the reasons from here: https://www.team-bhp.com/forum/india...p-compass.html (Pre-worshipped car of the week | Buying a Used Jeep Compass)

Cheers and happy hunting for the car for your dad!

[Nonstop-driver]

Originally Posted by FlashMustang

Nice write-up and a good shortlist.
Adding a few more options that can be considered.

Thanks for your response. I was going through an auto site earlier today which strangely rated Yaris above most of these options. I had written off Toyota but I think it's worth a visit.

Pre-worshipped is strictly off the table, to be honest. And I agree with TC boxes by the Koreans, been driving a Creta D-AT myself since '17

Originally Posted by ashis89

For #3, check the service coverage of KIA in the smaller towns. Since it is a new brand, it's service coverage is still small. Hyundai (and of course Maruti) will have an advantage here.

Edit: Given your requirement, one strong contender would be the Maruti XL6 if you are okay with the 'van'-ish looks.

Thanks for your response. I missed XL6 since it was not at the Nexa dealership we visited but we will check it out. For the service coverage, I'm fine even if FNGs are able to fix the vehicles which incase of Kia will be at par with Hyundai I believe.

[GTO]

Originally Posted by Nonstop-driver

My Dad currently drives a Honda City ZX 2008 model. The ODO reads about 2,70,000 km Yea you read that right

You keep cars for long and have very high running. Hence, durability & reliability are paramount.

But then came the bomb - no deliveries until April. Some production issues. Very negative vibe overall.

I think you should buy the new Honda City:

- Your Dad clearly loves the City

- You already have a hatchback & crossover in the garage

- The 5th-gen City appears to be much improved over the controversial 4th-gen car

- It's got the best NA petrol and the smoothest CVT automatic

- Honda engines & mechanical components are usually bullet-proof and will cross 2 lakh km without fuss. Honda also offers extended warranties for 10 years!

- The City is an all-rounder

- If you are going to keep the car for a decade, a month or two of waiting is no big deal.

Second choice, either the Sonet (top variant falls in your budget) or Creta / Seltos (mid-variants in your budget). If you choose the Creta / Seltos, then stretch your budget for the highest variant. The features will be big on the "feel good" factor in your long 10 - 12 year ownership period.

Good luck shopping . Always a special time when we're out shopping for a car.

[landcruiser123]

Considering your high running, I'd suggest only Honda, Toyota, or Maruti. I somehow feel that the Hyundais/Kias of today are too poorly put together.

I'd say you can go for the City with your eyes shut. If you want something larger, try a used Corolla Altis.

[Simhi]

Originally Posted by Nonstop-driver

Thanks for your response. I was going through an auto site earlier today which strangely rated Yaris above most of these options. I had written off Toyota but I think it's worth a visit.

My recommendation would be to go with the latest generation of Honda City (top most variant). It should tick all the boxes.

Yaris is a good contender but does not carry the market status/symbol as Honda City. Also, sales are nothing to write about. But if you are looking for safety, reliability and good service support, do give it a shot. I would recommend looking at only the top-most VX variant.

[sam264_2000]

My suggestion would be to go for 5th Gen Honda City ZX CVT. You already have a hatchback (i10) and CSUV (Creta Diesel AT) in your garage. The City will ensure you have a car for any usage you intend to use the car for. Good luck!

[Vasanth]

Replace your old Honda city with a new Honda city.
No more words needed on how good the Honda city is.
Honda nails it with every generation.
As we always say here: Don’t let a bad dealership keep you away from a good car.
We are proud and loyal Honda owner for the past 6+ years

[roadrunner_nv]

The new City is one car that you can’t ignore. April isn’t far away and guess you can wait. What’s more, check if you are eligible for a loyalty discount
If the City ain’t cutting it for you, check the Venue with Diesel + AT combo. Your requirement for raised seating position and features are all addressed here. What’s more, you can get a loyalty discount as you own two other Hyundai cars in your garage.

[Shiftlock]

Do consider waiting for the new Honda City, it is worth it. Maybe try looking at another dealer who might have some stock lying with them. It will be a familiar car with much improved interior ambience and all modern features.

Originally Posted by roadrunner_nv

If the City ain’t cutting it for you, check the Venue with Diesel + AT combo. Your requirement for raised seating position and features are all addressed here. What’s more, you can get a loyalty discount as you own two other Hyundai cars in your garage.

I belive the Venue does not come with a Diesel AT combo, that is available in its sibling, the Sonet.

[roadrunner_nv]

Originally Posted by Shiftlock

I belive the Venue does not come with a Diesel AT combo, that is available in its sibling, the Sonet.

My bad! Yes, I did not realise that till you pointed it out. Sonet it is then!!

[kadanaJ]

I have a 2006 Honda City ZX. Just got the registration extended, because quite frankly, the car still drives perfectly.

Lack of safety features are my only concern.

If I were to replace that City, I feel there are only 3 options I would look at.

- New Honda City
- Maruti S-Cross
- Toyota Yaris

And new Honda City would be the top pick out of those 3.

[kamilharis]

I would suggest picking up the new Honda City itself. You prefer to keep the car for long, and covers around 22000km/year based on the current car. Even though the engine won't be a pure upgrade from the current city, surely you will get the feel of an upgrade in everything else. The CVT and Vtec won't disappoint you for the next 10 years for sure.

I won't recommend the DCT from Hyundai/Kia as you plan to keep the car for longer. And moreover, Kia Sonet/Hyundai Venue to me doesn't feel like an upgrade from the Honda City by any perspective.

If you have the budget and interest, I would any day suggest picking the mighty HARRIER AT over the SELTOS for two simple reasons; One being you already have a Creta and why spend again on a so-called SUV? Get the proper 2.0L beast and the status symbol with a HARRIER these days is way ahead of the Seltos & Cretas. Good luck.

[TrackDay]

I too would suggest the new Honda City (5th Gen). As an owner I can vouch for this car and recommend you to check the car out.

Review of my car:
https://www.team-bhp.com/forum/test-...ty-review.html (Athena | My 5th-Gen Honda City Review)

I would have recommended the S-Cross too but seeing that you already have a SUV & hatchback in your garage, you need a sedan to replace the outgoing sedan