[adneeraj]

Hello fellow BHPians

I've been on the lookout of a powerful car. My current ride is a Fiesta 70 bhp diesel which I had a RD map for a while but ended up removing it.
The car is 7 years old now and I feel like upgrading. I've maintained it really well. But the shortcomings are even more pronounced over the years I've done interstate road trips.

I happened to check the Skoda Kushaq and did not like its build, quality of plastics and the price - they just don't match up to the Skoda brand in general. Also, the 1.0 does not tickle me in the right areas. After owning a 70 bhp car for 7 years and having another rather uninspiring 1.2 kappa in the garage, I feel the urge to get myself a powerful vehicle.

I'm on a budget of 15 lacs and I've seen a few Jeep Compass in that price point. One particular example is in pretty good nick but is out of warranty at 3 yrs and 5 months age.
I've requested the seller to have it thoroughly checked at a Jeep service center at my cost so I would at least know what I'm getting into. I'd happily walk away if the inspection suggests a large looming expense. He has obliged to do that and also get the 4th year service done at his end.

For my budget, I could only buy the Creta SX manual (a car that I hate for its looks), a City VX maybe and the Kushaq Ambition trim with the 1.0 motor.

The Jeep Compass 4x4 (the 4x4 is only added bonus with this car and not a must have) is quite compelling for the price it is being offered at.
Heart says Jeep Compass but wife says she'd love if I got a new car. My brain has shut off

I've read the lateral upgrades thread, keeping your car longer thread and consulted a fellow BHPian who has a Jeep Compass 4x4 as well. But a racing mind isn't someone who would make a good decision.

Looking forward to your perspective and appreciate your indulgence on my dilemma.

@Mods: I wasn't able to post under TBHP advice - please move this under the right forum/thread.

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Thanks for the support & understanding

[sunilch]

Originally Posted by adneeraj

Hello fellow BHPians

I've been on the lookout of a powerful car.
......

For my budget, I could only buy the Creta SX manual (a car that I hate for its looks), a City VX maybe and the Kushaq Ambition trim with the 1.0 motor.

The Jeep Compass 4x4 (the 4x4 is only added bonus with this car and not a must have) is quite compelling for the price it is being offered at.
Heart says Jeep Compass but wife says she'd love if I got a new car. My brain has shut off

This will go under the "What Car" section

Regarding your choices - Since you have been accustomed to a sedan for a while, Honda City makes sense and it is a good to drive car. Not the most Fun to Drive car but it is a good one in a neutral way that does not offend anyone. This will satisfy your wife as well since it will be a new one.

Creta is a no go in your case. Its not at all fun to drive and it is just a car among the thousands that you see on the road. You will get over it very soon and may just regret it later.

Jeep Compass - assuming it is the diesel you are referring to, is a no brainer question. If all is well, take the deal and enjoy the car. You will love it I believe.

So if only a 'New Car' is a very important criteria - take the Compass. Else Honda City.

Mod Note : Please do NOT use acronyms (e.g. JC, ANHC, MS, T-Fort, ANHV) when referring to cars or their makers. You are ONLY permitted to use the full Make & Model name. This will make our content useful, searchable & easy-to-understand for experts & newbies alike.

Thanks for the support & understanding

[lamborghini]

15L is a fair budget to look for new & used options.

Given your location of Pune & the present road conditions : do take a test drive of the Honda City across varied conditions with a full load of passengers to make sure there is no under body scraping, etc.

The Kushaq 1.0TSi is a sensible family car, but yes - the finishing apparently leaves a lot to be desired. That being said, the engine will be peppy enough. If the used compass is an option, it would be my pick.

Regarding Jeep Compass : look at options outside of Pune & if you can stretch your budget marginally. The Manual 2.0 & 1.4 would be available in your budget, and Mumbai.
If you can do without features, it would be better to get a newer Sport trim as compared to an older top end trim. This is a great all rounder, in 2.0D a brilliant tourer though don't expect an upgrade in terms of space.
Negotiate hard on pre-facelift models.

If you would like some more space, there is the Harrier, though have to inspect it carefully and also make sure to buy a model within warranty that can be extended, as many owners have reported niggles.

The Creta & Seltos are overpriced in my opinion, with the turbo petrols coming in at a stretch, iffy safety, and not necessarily peace of mind vehicles. The Diesels are great all rounders if you are ok with the average safety kit. The premium you pay today to purchase it is generally given back during resale if you time the switch well : I am seeing some cars quoting more than what the owner probably bought it for!

The last option I would suggest would be the dated Rapid. It won't be an upgrade from the Fiesta, and is dated. But mature ride & handling, with a capable engine, above average safety levels, decent extended warranty and service packages, etc. make it seem like a good option as well, especially given the prices.

[heydj]

Originally Posted by lamborghini

The last option I would suggest would be the dated Rapid.

Hey I have Rapid DSG and its now been 6 years with 10 year rule in Delhi. Do you think it would be good idea to let it go in favour of something like That Petrol AT? We are small family.

Rapid will enter 7th year in few months however my running is low. About 100KMs a week and so far 36K done.

[adneeraj]

Originally Posted by sunilch

This will go under the "What Car" section

Honda City makes sense and it is a good to drive car.... This will satisfy your wife as well since it will be a new one.

Creta is a no go in your case.... You will get over it very soon and may just regret it later.

Jeep Compass - assuming it is the diesel you are referring to, is a no brainer question. If all is well, take the deal and enjoy the car. You will love it I believe.

I'm not interested in the City and neither is my wife. It is listed because it a variant would be within reach. Apart from being in a similar class, upgrading to the City does not give me a huge benefit from the Fiesta. Plus, the newer Hondas have been flimsily built, IMO.

Originally Posted by lamborghini

The Kushaq 1.0TSi is a sensible family car, but yes - the finishing apparently leaves a lot to be desired. That being said, the engine will be peppy enough. If the used compass is an option, it would be my pick.

Regarding Jeep Compass : look at options outside of Pune & if you can stretch your budget marginally. The Manual 2.0 & 1.4 would be available in your budget, and Mumbai.
If you can do without features, it would be better to get a newer Sport trim as compared to an older top end trim. This is a great all rounder, in 2.0D a brilliant tourer though don't expect an upgrade in terms of space.
Negotiate hard on pre-facelift models.

The Creta & Seltos are overpriced in my opinion...

The last option I would suggest would be the dated Rapid.

If only the Kushaq had even Rapid quality interiors! The older Rapid models had certainly better plastics and build all over than the newer Kushaq. I've got a VW dealer friend and he told me it is the same with the Taigun as well. Quality has been compromised in many places. Not the VWs and Skodas we know of.

I agree, Creta and Seltos seem overpriced. And they're just another car on the road. I certainly don't want to plonk money on a car that will push me to think of changing in a couple or three years.

Rapid will be discontinued soon. I did that with the Fiesta when I bought it about a year before it was discontinued. Don't want to repeat that

I've checked about 5 Jeep Compasses so far - 3 Longitude and 2 Limited variants. The one I've shortlisted is in best shape overall with verifiable service history - others were iffy and had body work either needed or done.
The 4x4, like I said, is coming as a bonus. I've got the car at the service center today for a thorough inspection - results should be known by tomorrow. I've already notified the dealer that I will walk away from the deal if the reports aren't great and he has agreed.
As an added convenience, the dealer has also offered me to sell my Fiesta to him directly which brings down my purchase price.

All said, a new Jeep Compass costs about 25 lacs for a decent spec variant - something which I don't want to spend at this time.

My dilemma is mainly because with my budget, there are a few decent cars that I can get new while my mind hooks on to the Jeep Compass.
The Jeep Compass would catapult me at least 2 segments above my current ride and will keep me happier for at least another 4 years minimum.

Mod Note : Please do NOT use acronyms (e.g. JC, ANHC, MS, T-Fort, ANHV) when referring to cars or their makers. You are ONLY permitted to use the full Make & Model name. This will make our content useful, searchable & easy-to-understand for experts & newbies alike.

Thanks for the support & understanding

[Dr.AD]

Originally Posted by adneeraj

The Jeep Compass 4x4 (the 4x4 is only added bonus with this car and not a must have) is quite compelling for the price it is being offered at.
Heart says Jeep Compass but wife says she'd love if I got a new car. My brain has shut off

If you are indeed getting a Jeep Compass 4x4 in your budget, and if the car is indeed a genuine car (no accident vehicle) with clean paperwork and is in good condition, then I would definitely say that is the best deal. If I were in your position, I would pick this over any of the other options you mentioned.

From your post, your primary criterion or "urge", if I may say so, seems to be a powerful engine. And the 2.0D of Jeep Compass with 170hp will definitely feel like a proper engine upgrade over your current 70hp diesel motor. Not just the engine, but even for ride quality, the Jeep Compass is certainly one class ahead of all other choices you mentioned.

If you like to tour remote area, rural areas, and do long distance drives, then the overall characteristics of Jeep Compass and the added bonus of 4x4 make it a perfect choice.

The key is getting a clean and well maintained example. If you find one, I would definitely recommend that.

[ValuableRecluse]

Sure! A Jeep Compass 4x4 ticks all the boxes for a well rounded, urban SUV with off-road capability. Having driven one extensively, I can vouch for its sweet handling and willing engine.
Unfortunately FCA doesn't have a good reputation for reliability or longevity. It's ok to own the vehicle while under warranty, but repairs may get expensive when out of it.
There are multiple complaints on TBHP ranging from minor irritants like rattling panels and dashboard, infotainment issues, lights not switching off, check engine light appearing randomly, to major ones like a transfer box and rear axle replacement due failure.
If you're looking for a used SUV, my recommendation would be a Fortuner, Scorpio, XUV or Brezza.
These are my personal views. No offence given to any Jeep Compass owner.

Mod Note : Please do NOT use acronyms (e.g. JC, ANHC, MS, T-Fort, ANHV) when referring to cars or their makers. You are ONLY permitted to use the full Make & Model name. This will make our content useful, searchable & easy-to-understand for experts & newbies alike.

Thanks for the support & understanding

[lamborghini]

Originally Posted by heydj

Hey I have Rapid DSG and its now been 6 years with 10 year rule in Delhi. Do you think it would be good idea to let it go in favour of something like That Petrol AT? We are small family.

Rapid will enter 7th year in few months however my running is low. About 100KMs a week and so far 36K done.

The Thar isn't a family vehicle at all. Coming from the rapid : the ride and handling, build quality, etc. are going to be a big step down.
At best its a second car in a family.

Ideally sell the rapid closer to end of 8th year unless the new regulations truly make an impact in Delhi if its in good nick.

Originally Posted by adneeraj

Rapid will be discontinued soon. I did that with the Fiesta when I bought it about a year before it was discontinued. Don't want to repeat that

I've checked about 5 Jeep Compasses so far - 3 Longitude and 2 Limited variants. The one I've shortlisted is in best shape overall with verifiable service history - others were iffy and had body work either needed or done.
The 4x4, like I said, is coming as a bonus. I've got the car at the service center today for a thorough inspection - results should be known by tomorrow. I've already notified the dealer that I will walk away from the deal if the reports aren't great and he has agreed.
As an added convenience, the dealer has also offered me to sell my Fiesta to him directly which brings down my purchase price.

My dilemma is mainly because with my budget, there are a few decent cars that I can get new while my mind hooks on to the Jeep Compass.
The Jeep Compass would catapult me at least 2 segments above my current ride and will keep me happier for at least another 4 years minimum.

The Jeep Compass has been a fairly reliable car in manual diesel guise. The only concern really would be if it's been abused.
If your heart is for it and you can live with the space and interiors : definitely worth considering. However look at Mumbai markets too as prices are generally better here and Pune is a short drive away.
Other options in sedans could be Jetta, Superb MT, Octavia, and Civic: with the civic in warranty most likely.

Mod Note : Please do NOT use acronyms (e.g. JC, ANHC, MS, T-Fort, ANHV) when referring to cars or their makers. You are ONLY permitted to use the full Make & Model name. This will make our content useful, searchable & easy-to-understand for experts & newbies alike.

Thanks for the support & understanding

[Bibendum90949]

The biggest problem I see here is you're coming from a Fiesta - one of the best driver's car we ever had. Most of the modern cars under 20 lakhs today can't hold a candle to Fiesta 's driving dynamics. Hence buying cars such as City would be a huge downgrade. The interiors and feature list can only give you as much joy. After the initial aura dies down, when you're behind the wheels you'll start to miss your Fiesta. A friend who moved from a Fiat Linea to Honda City rues the decision. I don't mean to say City is a bad car but I feel what car you come from is important while choosing/upgrading to next car.

As few members suggested, Jeep Compass MT Diesel would be your best bet. Else a well maintained Skoda Octavia Diesel. If at all you end with up with a C SUV, Seltos is the best of the lot in terms of driving pleasure but at the cost of safety. There are sparingly used Seltoses which are up for sale in your budget. Go for a diesel MT or AT and stay away from DCT(reliability)and IVT(boring). Bhpian Aroonanand 's Seltos D AT GTX + is for sale but little over your budget.
https://classifieds.team-bhp.com/buy...a/Seltos.html/

An Eco Sport won't be an upgrade for you either. Everything else is a compromise I reckon purely from driving point of view. So encompass the Compass! The Jeep service and spares won't be as good and cheap as Ford. So brace for that too. Happy hunting!

[CarMaster_059]

Compass is an excellent choice. But don't buy the automatics. FCA's automatic transmissions have horrendous reliability worldwide. Also, Compass is known to have drivetrain problems in the 4x4 guise (transfer case, etc) although it's not a highly pronounced issue. I'd say you should choose the Compass 4x2 manual variant only.

[landcruiser123]

I personally haven't driven the new Creta or Skodas. The compass is a car I've heard a lot of good things about. It should be fairly reliable in diesel manual. Just make sure you change the fluids in the transfer case and differential at the right intervals.

I'll add to your confusion - how about a used S-Cross 1.6? It'll be a screamer and much safer buy if Jeep shuts shop. Be warned though - the turbo lag can be irritating in bumper-to-bumper city traffic.

[Rohan24]

Originally Posted by adneeraj

Hello fellow BHPians

I've been on the lookout of a powerful car. My current ride is a Fiesta 70 bhp diesel which I had a RD map for a while but ended up removing it.
The car is 7 years old now and I feel like upgrading.
.
.
@Mods: I wasn't able to post under TBHP advice - please move this under the right forum/thread.

I think the Compass would be a really good upgrade, in terms of power as well as in terms of that feeling of 'premiumness' one looks for when upgrading their vehicle. As others have also mentioned, you'll just have to compromise on the handling and agility.

Could you elaborate on the specific variant you are looking at, and the mileage it has clocked? That way others here will be able to give a better judgement on the deal you are getting. Coincidentally, I also happened to be looking at used Compasses in Mumbai/Pune recently and there are a few low mileage 2019/20 "Limited Plus" variants for sale. You might want to take a look at those if you are okay with stretching your budget to 18-19L. The Limited Plus gets a larger infotainment screen as well as a panoramic sunroof.

You can also take a look at arun_josie's brilliant and extensive Compass ownership thread on the forum for the maintenance costs, etc.
All the best for your search!

[adneeraj]

Originally Posted by landcruiser123

I'll add to your confusion - how about a used S-Cross 1.6?

If it was in its heyday, yes, it was one of my shortlisted cars then. Not now.

Originally Posted by Rohan24

Could you elaborate on the specific variant you are looking at, and the mileage it has clocked? That way others here will be able to give a better judgement on the deal you are getting. Coincidentally, I also happened to be looking at used Compasses in Mumbai/Pune recently and there are a few low mileage 2019/20 "Limited Plus" variants for sale. You might want to take a look at those if you are okay with stretching your budget to 18-19L. The Limited Plus gets a larger infotainment screen as well as a panoramic sunroof.

You can also take a look at arun_josie's brilliant and extensive Compass ownership thread on the forum for the maintenance costs, etc.
All the best for your search!

Like I mentioned, it is a 2018 4x4 Limited option variant that has run about 55000 kms. It's a shade above my budget.
I certainly can't stretch to 18 honestly.
I've seen 2 Jeep Compasses from Bombay as well. 3 in Pune.

And yes, I've read through Arun's review and have also had a discussion with him about the car in general. There's no place better than TBHP to satisfy your hunger for knowledge and get genuine opinions

Originally Posted by Bibendum90949

The biggest problem I see here is you're coming from a Fiesta - one of the best driver's car we ever had.
Octy, Jetta, Superb...

I totally agree. I went down to Bombay for some urgent work a few days ago and the ride was so joyous, I was wondering why I was thinking of giving up my car and thinking of anything else. Mine runs on michelin and I feel they do help further in handling.
But, it's ageing and the lack of comfort is sorely missed. Honestly, our other car, the Grand i10 has better front seats with under thigh support! Given the roads I've ended up traveling in our road trips, I've always wanted to upgrade to a crossover, if not an SUV. So no sedans for sure. I've a long running affair with the Jetta and Octavia for a while now

Mod Note : Please do NOT use acronyms (e.g. JC, ANHC, MS, T-Fort, ANHV) when referring to cars or their makers. You are ONLY permitted to use the full Make & Model name. This will make our content useful, searchable & easy-to-understand for experts & newbies alike.

Thanks for the support & understanding

[GTO]

7 years is too early to sell a car, but if it has just ~70 BHP, well, time to upgrade. Even budget hatchbacks today have more power. Definitely time for the Fiesta to go.

Because you've owned a Fiesta, you need a car with a good build + sorted dynamics. IMHO, a pre-owned Jeep Compass Diesel (not petrol) is the best car for you. For 15 lakhs, you'll get very good examples and in case you see an exceptional one, extend your budget for the same. In the long run, 50k - lakh here and there don't matter. What does is the kind of car you bought & the driving pleasure it gives you. In terms of fun, the Compass is a rockstar on the open road & easily as much fun as a Mercedes C-Class.

Be sure to go through our used car checklist (ARTICLE: How to buy a *USED* Car in India) & diligently follow all steps listed there, including a PPI, calling the insurance company to check for big claims, flood damage, service history, warranty replacements to spot a lemon, a long test-drive etc.

Move fast because it's a seller's market out there. Don't wait too long on a great piece. Adding a poll to spice things up here.

[07CR]

Originally Posted by adneeraj

Hello fellow BHPians

I've been on the lookout of a powerful car.

If used car-

Compass
Hector
Harrier (170 PS)
Seltos 1.4
Creta 1.4/1.6 D
Verna 1.6 D
City 1.5 VTEC (4th Gen ZX at about 9 L, sounds fantastic!)
Elantra 1.6/2.0 AT

If new-
City
Verna Turbo
Duster 1.3
Kicks Turbo