Skoda cars in India (8)

While all three compact SUVs are impressive in their own separate ways, your best bet here is the Skoda Kylaq. Its 1.0 TSI engine and 6-speed automatic combination is smooth, which should come in handy around town. It's also very spacious and comfortable, and even quite a lot of fun to drive. When you go out on the highway, it's reassuringly stable and rides comfortably, too. 

The Mahindra XUV 3XO has many of these traits too, but its engine, while powerful, isn't as smooth, refined or efficient as the Skoda's, and it has a tiny boot. The Sonet is starting to show its age, and its rear seat is very cramped. Plus, around town, its DCT gearbox can be quite jerky, and ride quality is firm too.

The Maruti Suzuki Brezza AT VXI is a sensible choice, though it's a bit out of your budget. The Brezza isn't exciting to drive, but it delivers reasonable performance and fuel economy and also scores well for ride comfort. The cabin is also practical and roomy. 

If you want something more exciting, you have the option of the Mahindra XUV 3XO Petrol AT MX3, the Skoda Kylaq AT Signature, and the Maruti Suzuki Fronx Turbo AT Zeta. The 3XO feels strong and offers the most room for five passengers, if that's a requirement. 

The Skoda Kylaq is most enjoyable to drive thanks to its fun handling and punchy engine. Maruti's Fronx Turbo strikes a good balance between performance and fuel economy.  

Unfortunately, the Hyundai Creta will only be available in a base variant in your budget of Rs 15 lakh. The Skoda Kylaq Signature is an excellent option, offering superb ride comfort and a punchy engine. 

While it can be fuel efficient, however, you have to drive very carefully to get the most mileage out of the 1.0 TSI engine. If fuel efficiency is a top priority, consider checking out the Hyundai Venue diesel. It's not quite as comfortable as the Kylaq but it will certainly deliver better mileage.

The Skoda Kylaq would make a great upgrade from your Ford Figo. It's got the same fun handling character as the Figo with slick steering and crisp turn-in. 

Adding to the fun factor is the 1-litre turbo-petrol engine that feels strong and punchy. Since the bulk of your driving will be in the city, you could consider the smooth 6-speed automatic transmission. 

Otherwise, the 6-speed manual gearbox is fun in its own right. 

Sadly, there are no all-new Rs 25-30 lakh sedans lined up for launch this year. However, slightly lower down the price ladder, we will see the launch of updated versions of the Hyundai Verna, Honda City, Skoda Slavia and Volkswagen Virtus over the year. 

There's way more choice for the same budget in SUVs with options spanning petrol, diesel, hybrid and EV powertrains as well as with two and three rows of seating, and 4x2 and 4x4.  

• Maruti Suzuki Brezza ZXI AT: Down on wow features to the Venue, but has a smoother gearbox, plusher ride, and more comfortable seats.
• Skoda Kylaq Signature+ AT: Again, not as well-equipped as the Venue, but it has a smoother gearbox and punchier engine. Space at the back is less, but it shouldn't be a deal breaker for you.
• Kia Sonet HTX Petrol DCT: It is due for replacement within a year, but it is very competent. Packs in plenty of tech and shares its engine and gearbox with the Venue, and is actually a better value for money. Space is less at the back, but it shouldn't be a deal breaker for you.
• Mahindra XUV 3XO REVX A: Stronger engine, lots of features, and feels tougher in its build. Boot space is less than the Hyundai car.

The Skoda Kushaq is a competent mid-sized SUV that stands out for its driving experience. Its 1.0 and 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engines deliver punchy performance, and handling is also slick and fun. The Kushaq also feels tough in its build and comes with the reassurance of strong safety ratings. On the flip side, the Kushaq feels smaller than many like-priced rivals and isn't ideal as a five-seater. 

Skoda will introduce an updated version of the Kushaq later this month. We expect the model to get a few styling revisions outside and more features, too. It might include a panoramic sunroof and a segment-first rear seat massage function. 

The updated Kushaq will also get an uprated air conditioner that will provide stronger cooling, which has been one of the model's weaknesses since launch. While the engine options will continue as is, the smaller engine's 6-speed automatic transmission is expected to make way for a more efficient 8-speed unit. 

To sum up, the Kushaq should be on your list if a fun drive experience is a priority. If space, comfort and features are important, consider the Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta and Tata Sierra.