Hi experts, I’m planning to purchase my first car with an automatic transmission within a budget of ₹15 to ₹17 lakh for 60% city driving and 40% in hilly areas. I’m confused whether the Honda Elevate with its NA engine and CVT transmission will have enough power to perform well with a full load of 5 adults and luggage in hilly terrain, or if there is another suitable car that fulfils my needs - please advise.

Honda Elevate gets a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, which churns out 121hp power and 145Nm torque, which is sufficient power for your everyday use. 

Naturally aspirated engines deliver power in a smooth, linear manner and lack the sudden surge experienced in turbocharged units, and that is often mistaken for a lack of performance when compared to turbos. Power won’t be an issue; the real drawback is at the rear, where the central passenger has to contend with a prominent floor hump and a protruding AC vent, both of which eat into legroom and make long journeys uncomfortable. If travelling with 5 is your priority, we recommend you go with the Hyundai Creta.