Of these two, we'd recommend you choose the Hyundai Venue HX5. The Tata Nexon has the slight edge on driving enjoyment with its punchier engine, sharper steering and better-tuned suspension, but in most other areas, the Venue excels. 

The HX5 variant is decently well equipped, and the Venue diesel in general is smoother, more refined, better built and of higher interior quality. Plus, Hyundai's aftersales and service are known to offer a better experience than Tata's.

Yes, with the Tata Punch Facelift, which is launching on January 13, the sub-compact SUV will finally get a stronger turbo petrol engine option, which has been lacking in the car so far. 

As in the Tata Nexon, this will be mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox, which means the two cars will have identical powertrains. However, it is likely that, for the same price, you will get a lower-spec Nexon, compared to the Punch. 

So, it comes down to your budget and your preference - if you like more features and don't mind a smaller vehicle, you should get the Punch. However, the Nexon is far more spacious - especially in the back seat and boot - and it's more comfortable too. So, if you value that and don't mind skipping a few features, it would be a worthy upgrade to your Tiago diesel.

Both the Tata Nexon and Mahindra 3XO are tough-feeling and robust compact SUVs, and both boast 5-star Global NCAP safety ratings. Both models also get branded audio systems, though it's advisable to test them out for your preferences. 

Of the two models, it's the Mahindra 3XO that's the more complete package. It's better finished, better equipped and more spacious than the Tata Nexon. What also tips the ratings in favour of the Mahindra is its punchier petrol engine and slicker gearboxes - both manual and automatic. 

Where the 3XO loses out is in luggage capacity, offering less room than you'd get in a Nexon. 

If you want to buy any of these SUVs, we suggest increasing your budget by ₹2-3 lakh. At a ₹10 lakh on-road budget, you will have to settle for the lower variants, which is a personal choice but does mean missing out on key features. 

Within a ₹10 lakh budget, a good option for you is the Hyundai Exter. It allows you to choose a fully loaded variant that comes with an 8-inch touchscreen, sunroof, cruise control, wireless phone charger, rearview camera, and other useful features. It gets a smooth and refined 1.2-litre, 4-cylinder engine that delivers power in a predictable and easy-to-manage manner. 

Since you are a new driver, opting for the AMT would be a sensible choice, as it adds to everyday driving comfort and convenience.

Amongst the cars you mentioned, you can consider the Tata Nexon or Kia Sonet. 

Yes, the Citroen Basalt X will be better in both aspects that you desire. The turbo-charged engine is very peppy and is nice to drive, and the ride of the car is excellent, a typical Citroen hallmark. 

We would rule out the Tata Nexon turbo as the power delivery isn't very strong like other typical turbo engines. If you want to consider something other than the Citroen, test drive the turbo version of the Nissan Magnite. 

The 1.0-litre unit has a good mid-range punch and is something that you would enjoy.