Mahindra Scorpio

This time around, Mahindra has simplified the variant list. Only six remain now - S3, S5, S7, S7 (140PS), S11, S11 4x4. Don’t ask us what happened to the S9. Probably the fear of a smaller suffix after the ‘S’ would have created the wrong impression with those who knew that its predecessor had an S10 variant. The S3 is the only variant that comes with m2DICR engine and should be ignored. Less than a hundred horses to power a 2.5-tonne SUV is just cruel. Moreover, with its black bumpers, black cladding and exposed steel wheels, it screams out that you are a cheapskate. The 120PS/280Nm mHAWK powerplant is available in the S5 and the S7 variants. However, the latter is also available with the 140PS/320Nm tune. It goes without saying that the range-topper, the S11, comes with the most powerful engine.

Tata Safari Storme : Tata’s smug mobile has started to feel dated. But there is no getting away from the fact that it is still just as imposing and just as capable off-road as ever. The 4x4 variant is slightly more affordable than the Scorpio’s. That said, the Scorpio is a more rounded product.

Honda BR-V: Honda's offering in the segment is essentially a jacked up Mobilio with some mechanical changes to compensate for the raised stance. It is the only crossover here which can seat seven people.

Nissan Terrano : : The Duster's better-looking cousin (yes, looks are subjective), the Terrano suffers from being too overpriced for its own good. It does get a diesel AMT variant, which is a good option for those looking for a convenient urban SUV.

Renault Duster : The car that started it all, the Renault Duster is the only modern crossover in the segment to feature an AWD system. Its butch design, adequate space, CVT transmission (petrol), AMT (diesel) and all-weather ability make it score a lot of brownie points in the segment. However, its interior quality and limited service network make it less appealing.

Hyundai Creta : There’s not much wrong with the Creta. It’s spacious, is built well inside out and drives well too. It’s got an appeal very few of its competitors can match.