1000+ km monthly usage: Commit to EV or bet safe on a diesel car

Interested in the MG ZS EV, but also considering the Jeep Compass S.

BHPian BlackAdam recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

And with these words, I debut in the 'Grand League'. Yes folks, after being an avid Team-BHP follower for over a decade, today is the day that I pen my first words. And what better way than post a question to the learned - Help me finalise my next drive mate.

Pleasantries aside, I am torn between the classic head and heart duel.

Head implores investing in the MG ZS EV for the sheer cost savings + being ecologically conscious, while the Heart pangs for the Jeep Compass 'S' Diesel 9-Speed TC for the love of driving a real SUV.

Here are my key requirements:

• A fun-to-drive car that can gobble uneven roads, has a planted stance and can deliver a comfortable ride.

Explanation: I stay in the upcoming New Gurugram area, which is perennially under construction so the overall road quality is nothing short of an off-road trail. However, with a family consisting of a 3-year-old kid, a septuagenarian unwell mother and wife (with 5 cousins loading up for occasional getaways), the travel requirement is a sturdy, well-built, comfortable car.

• Has to be the absolute top-of-the-line

Explanation: Somehow, I have always been a stickler for technology, and hence my cars have to be top-of-the-line. My vehicles have to have futuristic, tech marvels with all the bells and whistles. No second thoughts on this.

• Budget to be around Rs 35 lakh (OTR Gurugram)

Explanation: I am upgrading from a 2016 Hyundai i20 Asta and hence will like to finally invest in a worthy upgrade, one that can be my fellow drive mate for at least half a decade if not more.

• Should be an SUV, or a quasi-SUV

Explanation: Living and driving in Delhi-NCR demands an SUV for varied reasons, and hence that's the segment that I will prefer. No sedans for me. Somehow, that connect has never developed.

Cars shortlisted:

1. Jeep Compass 'S' Diesel 9-Speed Auto
2. MG ZS EV
3. Hyundai Tucson Signature Diesel AWD

Preference List:

1. The JC Legend: No two ways about it. This car demands respect. Ticks all my requirement boxes and is the one that the heart tugs. Add to this, ready stock availability of my favourite colour - Techno Green is what makes this my first choice. However, am not able to convince myself of the Rs. 34 lakh OTR price tag. Somehow, the car looks a bit overpriced. Add to that, the niggles (read: rattling issues), hit-and-miss service experience, and the backseat space that's only good for 2 adults, is making me think of a different option.
2. Move to the Future: The current EV king. Is the one that the head (and the wifey) demands. Under Rs. <2 per km driving cost. Fairly loaded with gadgets (with notable omissions of Ventilated Seats, ECM, Powered Tailgate etc.), and virtually safe for the environment has me leaning towards this one. This is one powerful mile-muncher that has the looks as well. Plus, the governmental support with subsidies and tax benefits makes this an even sweeter deal. Add to this the phenomenal MG after-sales service makes this a no-brainer.
3. The Korean RoboCop: The futuristic of 'em all. Tuscon has my eyes with its sharp cuts, angles and design. However, can't really afford the top-of-line Diesel (Rs. 38 OTR Gurugram). But need to have all the features that the car comes with. Petrol is not my game anymore (frail FE can't have my pockets bleeding again). Hence, this one is the third option.

One question to conclude. HEAD or HEART.

Or, if the learned folks have any other recommendations, then I am all ears.

Here's what GTO had to say on the matter:

This + the fact that you really haven't listed any cons for the ZS EV show where your heart is. I say, go for the ZS EV. It is the best mainstream EV on sale in India. The more you spend time with it, the more you will fall in love with EVs. As an added bonus, you won't need to sell it after 10 years in Delhi-NCR (as you would the diesel Compass or Tucson).

Just make sure you have a backup option for those super long drives on the highway, and that your home parking spot can accommodate a charger (even 15A will do).

Here's what BHPian Shreyans_Jain had to say on the matter:

Not only will both Compass and Tucson ownerships be affected by the 10-year-rule, but the Jeep also has rather limited boot space as well. ZS EV is a very good choice.

You can also consider the VW Tiguan. It has the cabin and boot space of the Tucson, a full size bigger than ZS EV and Compass. An excellent TSi turbo petrol + wet clutch DSG + 4-wheel drive. No 10-year limitation and no worrying about charging. A very good all-around competent choice for the discerning premium buyer.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.