Rs 20 lakh budget: Looking for a Ford EcoSport replacement

We've already sold our EcoSport & are in need of an SUV/crossover. We've also planned to buy a cheap used car in the Rs 2-3 lakh range as our spare vehicle.

BHPian sid3091 recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Hello everyone,

We just sold our 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 20L range and a cheap second-hand car in the 2-3l 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 its handling seems to 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 in the Kia Seltos, but two things are holding me back from considering it further. Its safety rating, and the fact that 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 that 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 that has more features. I don't mind buying a used Tata Tiago/Honda Jazz and waiting around 3-4 months to make a purchase.

Update

Requirements:

• Good ride and handling balance. Coming from an EcoSport and Duster, we're quite spoiled in this regard, plus our colony has cobblestone streets which really get to you in a harsh suspension. Will be taking this car to hills frequently, so good steering feel and feedback would be a plus point.
• 6 airbags, TCS, ESP.
• Should be roomy enough for a trip for 4 people, 5 would be a bonus.
• I'm in Delhi, and keeping that in mind we're looking at a down payment of around 7l (includes the value of the Renault Duster) and I want to keep my EMI around 20-22k, so if there are other options I haven't considered, I'm all ears.
• Decent fuel economy. I'm not expecting Maruti level figures here, but both my dad and I drive with a light foot and know how to work around a turbocharger in bumper to bumper traffic. The car won't be seeing daily use because of working from home, but should that change, it is likely to do 40-50 KM per day.

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

Skoda Kushaq - I’ve cancelled my booking and will recommend waiting for the facelift. Lots of people have shared sub-par experiences due to ECP issues and other testing related issues. There is a dedicated thread on this in team-bhp.

VW Taigun - It’s pretty much the same car under a different skin.

Tata Harrier - Barring a few minor issues, it’s a solid car but will cost you ~25L. Take a TD and decide for yourself.

Here's what BHPian kvsriki had to say about the matter:

Please check this discussion, it should cover most of the options within your range.

Here's what BHPian AjinkyaP had to say about the matter:

May I suggest the top of the line MG Astor Sharp Turbo AT? If you are open to EVs, MG ZS is a nice option, too.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.