Skoda Kushaq

Since you prefer performance and like to drive, the Volkswagen Taigun or Skoda Kushaq will be a better choice. 

While we are yet to sample the Sierra on the road, it isn't the sort of SUV to be designed for spirited driving. An even better option compared to these would be the Skoda Slavia or Volkswagen Virtus. 

They are sedans, but still get good ground clearance and are superb to drive. The 1.5 TSI engine offers excellent performance, and they are well-equipped and practical too. 

While the Slavia will be updated, Skoda has not given any timeline for launch. The Kushaq is due for an update in early 2026, and the earliest we expect an updated Slavia is late 2026/early 2027. You can go ahead with your plans for the Slavia without worrying about it getting outdated anytime soon.

The Skoda Kushaq 1.5 TSI DSG is the more fun car to drive and would be our pick between the two models you’re considering. Skoda hasn’t announced a launch timeline for the updated Kushaq, but an early 2026 launch is expected. The facelifted model should get styling tweaks and a few feature upgrades, making it worth the wait.

The Skoda Kushaq in the Signature variant and the Mahindra 3XO AX5  are both great options. Both have scored a full 5 stars in the BNCAP crash tests and are enjoyable to drive. The Mahindra 3XO is the better five-seater thanks to its wider cabin, while the Skoda Kushaq offers a much larger boot.

For a little over Rs 15 lakh (on-road), you have multiple midsize SUV options like Maruti Victoris, Grand Vitara, Honda Elevate, Skoda Kushaq, all of which feature the type of automatic you're looking for. However, if your budget is capped at Rs 15 lakh max, then consider the Mahindra XUV3XO AX5 AT, which delivers strong and punchy performance. The Maruti Brezza is also a good, efficient option, but its performance isn't as strong as the Mahindra.

The Mahindra Thar is a bit of an outlier among these three options. It’s the only 3-door model, the only one built on a tough body-on-frame chassis, and the only one that comes with a diesel engine. Going for a diesel SUV is absolutely fine, in fact, the lack of diesel options in the Taigun and Kushaq petrol variants can be a disadvantage if you value fuel efficiency and torque for highway or off-road driving.

If the Thar is going to be your second or third car that will be used occasionally for off-road trips or wilderness drives, then it’s a compelling choice, and the 1.5-litre diesel is significantly cheaper too.

However, in terms of refinement, comfort, driveability, and on-road sophistication, the Volkswagen Taigun and Skoda Kushaq are far superior. They are smoother, more comfortable, and easier to drive daily, making them better all-rounders for city and highway use.

Given your requirements, the Hyundai Creta is a good choice. It offers great resale value and reliable service. Higher variants come with a Bose sound system, impressive refinement, and pleasant ride comfort. If you’re open to a diesel (keeping in mind resale could be a concern in a few years), the diesel-automatic SX(O) is ideal. Otherwise, the turbo-petrol variant delivers ample performance. It’s best to avoid the N Line, as its larger wheels affect ride comfort.

If a fun driving experience is your priority, the Volkswagen Taigun and Skoda Kushaq 1.5 TSI DSG are worth considering. They feature strong engines, fun handling, punchy sound systems. Their tough build is also something you'll appreciate over broken roads.