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. 
 

The recently-launched Mahindra XUV 7XO is a good option to consider. It replaces the XUV700 and gets interior and exterior changes, along with more features. It is spacious, comfortable and has a strong set of engines. 

The 2.0-litre petrol is smooth and refined, and the 2.2-litre diesel is punchy and relatively efficient. You also get the added practicality of a third row of seats, which the Kia Seltos and Tata Sierra don't get. Mahindra XUV 7XO price range from Rs 13.66 lakh to Rs 24.92 lakh (ex-showroom, India). 

With your budget set at Rs 17 lakh, we would advise you to go with the new Kia Seltos as it is a great all-rounder. Also, you would get a mid-spec car like the petrol manual HTK(O), which, besides the basics, would also get you a few niceties. The petrol engine is also a good performer, delivering a good blend of performance, refinement and efficiency. 

The lower spec Tata Sierra, on the other hand, will come with the 1.5 litre naturally aspirated engine. It is a very sluggish performer, and while the Mahindra XUV 7XO will deliver on this front, it would not be as efficient as the Kia.         

The two cars which you are considering, the Mahindra XEV 9E and Tata Sierra Turbo-petrol, overlap in terms of pricing. Hence, the decision-making of whether to go for one or another is purely based on your personal choice. 

An XEV 9E is larger in size, has a large battery and strong motor, and it will deliver a more enjoyable drive experience, being quicker, smoother and quieter. 

Your running costs will be significantly lower than those of an ICE vehicle, even more so if you charge your car at your residence/office. At a similar price, you are likely to get a lower or mid-level variant (after discounts) of the XEV 9E. They are well-equipped but will have a few, feel-good features missing, compared to the top-spec Sierra. 

Moreover, with the bigger battery, the Mahindra's real-world range of over 400km is very impressive too. Its charging speeds are very quick, too, adding to the peace of mind for highway drives. Hence, if you are open to EVs, the XEV 9E is the one to go for.

Since you're happy with your Tata Safari and the after-sales experience has been trouble-free, go ahead with the Tata Sierra. It is a very comfortable and spacious SUV, and its ride comfort is excellent, both in the city and on the highway.

You could opt for the 1.5-litre diesel version, which delivers respectable performance for your highway drives and is likely to be quite efficient too, although refinement isn't as good as some other offerings out there. 

Alternatively, you could opt for the 1.5-litre turbo-petrol-automatic, which is excellent in terms of performance and refinement. If you are ok with lower fuel efficiency (than the diesel version), the 1.5 turbo-petrol is the one we'd recommend. 

Both the Tata Sierra and Kia Seltos are good picks. The powertrain to pick in the Sierra lineup is the turbo petrol variant, however this iteration is only available in top variants. But this will be a couple of lakhs above the price band suggested by you. The 1.5-litre NA engine in the Sierra lacks the punch and is noisy. 

Instead, we would suggest going for the Kia Seltos, which gets well-equipped lower variants, and even the 1.5-litre NA is smooth and responsive.