Need an Ecosport replacement: Taigun vs Kushaq vs Harrier

I've driven the Taigun 1.0 MT and found it to be a great drive except the handling seems be too light compared to either the Duster or the Ecosport.

BHPian sid3091 recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Hello everyone,

I just sold my Ford Ecosport, and are looking for a suitable replacement.

We also have a 2015 Renault Duster AWD which we'll be looking to trade in (or sell if the trade in values are crap).

Our plan is to buy a new car in the 20 lakh range and a cheap second hand car in the 2-3 lakh range as a spare car.

Choices so far:

• Skoda Kushaq 1.5 MT/AT.
• VW Taigun 1.0 AT/MT or 1.5 AT.
• Tata Harrier XZ+ (if the dealer's exchange values are good).

I'm at a loss on what to get. I've driven the Taigun 1.0 MT and found it to be a great drive except the handling seems be too light compared to either the Duster or the Ecosport.

I haven't driven the Harrier yet, but considering its size, I won't really be pushing its limits too much.

I like the looks and the equipment on offer of the Kia Seltos, but two things are holding me back from considering it further. It's safety rating, and the fact the few times I sat in it, I found the ride quality to be rather stiff.

What would you guys advise? I have this feeling the Kushaq and Taigun lineup will both see a rejig and I'd be fuming if I bought one now and there's a new variant in 2 months which has more features. I don't mind buying a used Tata Tiago/Honda Jazz and waiting around 3-4 months to make a purchase.

Here's what BHPian ninja09 had to say on the matter:

I’ve been looking for a car for more than a month now. Sharing my two cents:

• Škoda Kushaq: I’ve cancelled my booking and will recommend to wait for the facelift. Lots of people have shared sub-par experience due to ECP issue and other testing related issues. There is a dedicated thread on this on Team BHP.
• VW Taigun: It’s pretty much the same car under different skin.
• Tata Harrier: Baring few minor issues, it’s a solid car but will cost you 25L. Take a TD and decide for yourself.

Here's what BHPian heydj had to say on the matter:

My suggestions:

• Creta/Alcazar - fits budget and nothing specifically wrong except DCT but since you have Skoda in list so its same AT.
• XUV700 - Any variant in your budget. I find base petrol great value.
• New Scorpio - Wait for it to launch.
• Jeep Compass.
• Hyundai Tucson petrol. Drive a hard bargain on current model as new one about to launch.

My only advice buy a car that appeals to heart even if little over budget. I agree with what GTO said somewhere that buy a little out of budget vehicle if it appeals to heart as in long term it will appeal a lot and keep you invested.

Here's what BHPian spkrnh had to say on the matter:

Graduating from an Ecosport, there are not too many cars which would feel like a great update. Because it has a solid build and fantastic handling. Plus you say you had Duster also which would have spoilt you with its ride quality.

Since you are open to a manual, I would recommend the Jeep Compass. It will feel like an upgrade in all aspects from the Ecosport more than the Taigun / Kushaq. It has great build and offers a fantastic driving experience. The main sore point is the sluggish transmission but the manual feels punchy enough.

Consider the Sport or Longitude (O), the later has nearly 1.75-2 lakh discounts for the 2021 model, which will bring the price to near Taigun level.

The only miss from the list you stated above will be 6 airbags. Test drive a Compass before you make your choice.

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