Autocar India

•8m

While Ford has sadly exited the Indian market, leaving behind no direct successor to the EcoSport, there are some spiritual successors from other brands that you could look at. The closest in feel and philosophy is the Skoda Kushaq, which has just been given a facelift that will officially go on sale next month.Like the EcoSport, you get a solid and robust feel, whether it is in aspects like door shut, steering weight, high-speed stability and even interior build quality. The latest version gets more modern features, in case that's what you are after; the only downside is that it's not the most spacious SUV in its category.The biggest similarity between the Kushaq and the EcoSport, however, is how great they both are from behind the wheel. They are comfortable while being sharp to drive, and have strong engines that are a joy whether you're going slow or quickly. We think this is the SUV you should consider.

Skoda Kushaq

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Autocar India

•1h

You are right - with such high usage per month, your choice is between a diesel and a hybrid; a petrol car's running costs would be too high. Without knowing your budget, it's hard to say which segment you are looking at. But overall, while a diesel is a good option, since your usage is more in the city than on the highway, a good, strong hybrid makes more sense.For the majority of your use in the city, the car will likely run on electric power alone, with the engine only stepping in to recharge the battery. And on the highway, you have a good mix of engine power, e-power, and regeneration.Cars like the Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Maruti Suzuki Victoris or Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara are good options in the Rs 18-25 lakh range, but if you can spend Rs 30 lakh plus, consider the Toyota Innova HyCross, which has the added bonus of more space.If your budget is closer to Rs 50 lakh, there is the excellent Toyota Camry Hybrid, and if it is higher still, you can explore the Lexus range of luxury hybrids.

Toyota Camry

Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder

Toyota Innova HyCross

Maruti Suzuki Victoris

Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara

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Autocar India

•2h

On driving pleasure, as you have rightly pointed out, it is hard to beat the Skoda Kylaq. The turbo petrol engine delivers strong torque, and the ride and handling balance is among the best at this price point.However, when choosing between the Skoda Kylaq and the Hyundai Creta, the Creta emerges as the more sensible option if peace of mind ownership is a priority. Having already lived with a Hyundai and experienced trouble-free ownership, the transition will feel familiar and reassuring. With the sheer number of Cretas on the road, it is a proven product that is difficult to go wrong with.The Creta’s 1.5 litre naturally aspirated petrol engine is smooth and refined, and the CVT automatic gearbox is exceptionally seamless. This makes city driving effortless, which is an important factor given that nearly 80 percent of your usage will be urban.That said, the Kylaq should also prove to be reliable. Mechanically, it is a well-established package. The turbo petrol engine has been used across multiple models over the years, and the 6-speed torque converter automatic is sourced from Aisin, a supplier trusted by several major manufacturers in India. From a durability standpoint, there are no inherent concerns.Where Hyundai still holds a clear advantage is in aftersales support and service reach. The ownership experience is more predictable, especially in a region like Delhi NCR or when driving to the hills, where service stations are fewer and farther apart.If driving enjoyment is your top priority, the Kylaq will always feel more engaging. But if long-term ownership comfort, service reach and peace of mind matter more, the Hyundai Creta remains the safer and more rounded choice.

Skoda Kylaq

Hyundai Creta

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