Planning to buy a used Tata Hexa automatic (XMA/XTA, 2017–2019), which I’ve loved for years. Though options like XUV700, used XUV500, Crysta, Hycross, Harrier, and Safari exist, none appeal to me like the Hexa. I admire its bold, muscular, polarising design, strong features, and tank-like build—it still feels like Tata’s best-built car. Based on ownership feedback, the automatic is smoother, quicker, and more convenient than the manual. I’ve shortlisted 3–4 autos. Is it still a sensible buy in 2025?

Dear Mr. Nambiar,

We completely understand your admiration for the Tata Hexa—it has a unique charm and presence that set it apart, even among more recent SUVs. Its body-on-frame construction gives it a robust, go-anywhere feel, and the cabin exudes a sense of luxury that few Tata cars have managed to replicate since. The automatic versions, in particular, are known for their smoothness and convenience.

However, being practical, we wouldn’t recommend going ahead with a used Hexa in 2025. The model has been discontinued for over five years now, and as time goes on, sourcing spare parts and finding trained technicians could become increasingly difficult. Tata vehicles, the Hexa included, also don’t age particularly well, and there’s a risk of being saddled with high maintenance costs and reliability issues as the kilometres pile up.

Among current options, the Tata Safari comes closest in terms of character, but we agree—it doesn’t quite have the same majestic, tank-like aura of the Hexa. Still, if long-term peace of mind and support matter, you’d be better off considering something more recent and still in production.