Benchmarking
The Hyundai Aura is the latest compact-sedan offering from the brand in the Indian market. The new Hyundai Aura is based on the brand’s Grand i10 NIOS hatchback and comes with the same engine options and features, although there are a few minor differences between them. In terms of the design, the Hyundai Aura retains a similar front fascia as the NIOS. It features the same signature cascading grille, flanked on either side by projector headlamps. However, the Aura now comes with two boomerang-shaped LED DRLs on either ends of the grille rather than one. The side profiles of the Hyundai Aura come with stylishly designed alloy wheels at either end. The compact-sedan also sports a blacked-out C-pillar which gives it a floating roof like design. The rear profile of the Aura looks sporty with the wrap-around taillights and the ‘Aura’ badging at the centre of the boot-lid. Moving inside, the Hyundai Aura features a similar cabin to the i10 Grand NIOS. the Hyundai Aura does offer a premium-looking interiors with good fit.
Tata Nexon is available in 52 variants and 1 colour. Inside, the Tata Nexon features a highly updated cabin, with a three-tone layout. The dashboard has been updated as well and now features a host of equipment and connected technology; all of which makes the SUV feel more premium and upmarket than the previous model.
Safety features on the Tata Nexon: Dual airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, hill-hold assist, rollover mitigation, traction control, ISOFIX, reverse parking camera and seatbelt pretensioners; among others.
The Kia Sonet is the third model from the South-Korean carmaker in the Indian market. The Sonet is positioned in the competitive sub-4-metre SUV segment in the Indian market and below the Seltos in the brand’s product lineup. The front bumper houses the fog lamps at either ends while also having the central air dam with silver elements and red highlights. The side and rear profile of the Kia Sonet continues to feature the same sporty design. The cabin is made up of soft touch.
The Mahindra XUV300 is the latest entrant in the compact-SUV segment in the country. The XUV300 is based on a modified version of the Ssangyong Tivoli platform, borrowing design and styling cues from both the Tivoli and the XUV500. The design of the Mahindra XUV300 carries forward the Cheetah-inspired styling cues like some of its other siblings. It comes with an edgy design with a sleek front grille with chrome-studded inserts. The grille also comes with a thin chrome strip on the top, which integrates with the LED DRLs on the headlamps on either side. The LED DRLs further extends down to the fog lamps, providing a distinct look to the XUV300. The front bumpers also come with a large central air intake, which is flanked on either side by the fog lamps.
In terms of safety, the Mahindra XUV300 receives: ABS with EBD, seven airbags, hill-hold assist, anti-theft alarm, immobiliser, ISOFIX, rear parking sensors, high-speed alert system, ESP with roll-over mitigation, speed sensing door lock and impact sensing door unlock.
Conclusion: To wind up, I would recommend to purchase the Tata Nexon
Which has all required functionality and high ground clearance. In terms of price, it’s within the budget and better in mileage.