[adigoel08]

Originally Posted by micky

For Ecosport owners (and anyone who loves driving dynamics), Jeep Compass is a very good option.

I had the same problem of deciding in this segment but after driving the Jeep, just couldn’t buy the XUV700/Tata twins. Haven’t regretted my decision till date as it brings a smile whenever I drive.

As a fan of Jeep vehicles, I appreciate their build quality and performance, but I find them to be on the pricier side. Additionally, with recent reports suggesting that Jeep may not renew the Compass facelift in India, I'm a little concerned about their long-term plans. I wouldn't want to experience another situation like we did with Ford's exit from India. 😅

[adigoel08]

Originally Posted by ImportedLlama

However, your concerns about the tech glitches are very valid. Even after multiple updates, the software and infotainment are incredibly buggy, requiring us to completely stop and start the car again to get basic features working again like CarPlay. Sometimes the screen is just completely black—both driver display and main infotainment. This is genuinely extremely annoying and ruins the experience. I’m more of an analog guy myself, and I prefer physical buttons over software any day. I suggest you give the car a thorough rundown and make sure to get a good feel of its driving dynamics. Software is something that can be fixed, even if it takes a while, but compared to other cars in the segment, if you care about how a car feels and the connection you have with it while driving, I’d say go for it.
Cheers!

Do the software glitches occur frequently, or are they more of an occasional issue? I completely agree with your point. Most of the cars I've owned so far have been largely analog, and with today's tech-heavy cars, we're limited in our options. One reason the Hector is lower on my priority list is that even the AC controls are fully digital. I can't imagine dealing with a delayed AC start due to a tech glitch! 😋

[SreekanthMamidi]

I recently purchased Xuv700 AX7, Petrol AT (Aug2024) and completed 1500 kms on odo. So far experience with vehicle is very good.

Friends and family members really loved it.

Finished my first service and it's good no complaints.
For couple of queries I raised, I see response is very quick from sales and also from service team.

3rd row seat is very comfortable for kids, my wife 5.5' was happy to be in 3rd row for 7 hours journey without complaint.

Regarding suspension sound (Tak Tak), I heard for couple of times from back suspension in entire 1500 km journey. It was only for few seconds.

Few niggles with adrenox app but overall it's very good car with really good value for money with recent price cuts. You can definitely consider purchasing this vehicle..

[ImportedLlama]

Originally Posted by adigoel08

Thanks so much for providing this info. When you say not on par with ford, what differences do you generally see?

My apologies, I might have worded it slightly confusingly. I was referring to my personal Honda Accord V6 from 2006, not a Ford. I haven't driven any Fords as of yet, so I really have no opinion on them. My Accord, in general, is more driver-focused. The double-wishbone suspension and the low ride height paired with a very long wheelbase make this car extremely stable and nimble at the same time. The cockpit is also driver-centric. The high-revving, naturally aspirated V6 has wonderful power delivery and a linear acceleration curve. This is something I miss when driving turbocharged cars. The turbo lag does affect the driving feel to some level. The steering is also weighty, which makes it even more confidence-inspiring. However, this is a sedan, so it is naturally advantageous in these aspects. In most cases, an SUV is not made for this type of driving.

Coming back to the XUV700, the steering is featherlight in slow-moving situations but becomes very solid at high speed. The turbo lag on this engine is some of the best I've experienced, which means it is quite minimal, and you won't really notice it unless you need to perform a very quick and fast overtake. There, you'll wish you had a naturally aspirated engine, but it does spool up quite fast, so it shouldn't be a problem. Apart from my NA preference, I have no complaints about the turbo lag and performance of the XUV. 200 horses is more than enough for your use case.

I do, however, want to warn you about gas mileage. In the city, expect about 7, and on the highway, 12. This is quite low, and this engine is a thirsty one. If fuel economy is of no concern to you, this is a fantastic car that's great for the family. Solid and premium interiors, a great sound system, and lovely features in the Adrenox app (after a certain point, it becomes subscription-based, so beware). Overall, it's a very relaxing and smooth car to drive. My whole family and I drove about 11 hours total to Munnar in this, and you could barely feel it. I would recommend it 100 percent, but please be aware of the software issues, as they may be a dealbreaker for you. We personally don't care too much as long as the music plays, haha.

I would also like to add that the ADAS kicks in sometimes unnecessarily, which may startle you. Even in situations where you are in full control, it may kick in. It’s a very sudden and almost complete lock-up of the brakes, so keep this in mind. As for the rear foldable seat space, I personally haven't used it, but I can't say it's the best for adults. It can hold kids just fine, but an adult may have a more uncomfortable time in the back. I feel like this is a given with any 7-seater SUV unless it's an MPV, which you mentioned you weren't interested in. I have also driven a Tata Safari diesel. I personally did not like it at all. It felt extremely small, and the drivetrain was extremely sluggish. The rear seats felt like that of a hatchback.

Shoot me a private message or reply to this post if you have any more specific questions; I'll be sure to answer.

Cheers!

[micky]

Originally Posted by adigoel08

I wouldn't want to experience another situation like we did with Ford's exit from India. 😅

I agree on their uncertain long term strategy, but since they are profitable from their engines, I don't think they are going the Ford way.
I am especially feeling better after the Basalt. I will sleep peacefully once Stellantis starts doing 4 digits every month.

If you are ok you may consider a pre-owned one for now. It's not difficult to find a well-maintained Jeep.

[jithin23]

Originally Posted by adigoel08

Hey folks, I’m in a bit of a dilemma and could really use some advice from all the experts and enthusiasts in the community.

I’m looking to replace my Ford EcoSport diesel MT with a new ride, budget capped at 25 lakhs (that’s a stretch budget). My driving is mostly city-focused, but I do hit the highway about 3-4 times a month for ~400 km trips. We’re a family of 5, but when my sister and brother-in-law visit, we’re 7. While we could take out our second car (a hatchback), I’d love for all of us to be together in one vehicle.

Now, here’s where things get tricky. Most “7-seaters” in this price range aren’t truly spacious in the 3rd row for adults. And I’m not a fan of the MUV look—Carens and similar models just don’t do it for me. So, I’m torn between the XUV700 and something like a Brezza or Venue. Creta and Seltos are also in the mix, but they feel like just slightly bigger 5-seaters, which doesn’t seem worth the extra 5-6 lakhs for me. Plus, they’re super common in my circle, and I’m looking for something a bit different.

I’m really drawn to XUV700 for its looks and power, but I’ve read so many horror stories about Mahindra’s ASS, tech glitches, and issues with suspension and brake pads. Unfortunately, no one in my circle has firsthand experience with it, so I’m in the dark here.

I am inclined to get a diesel automatic, but I’m stuck on whether to go for a 5-seater or a 7-seater. And if I do go for a 5-seater, is it worth splurging on something like the Creta, or should I stick to a sub-4m option?

Would love to hear your thoughts, experiences, and suggestions—anything that could help me make a solid choice!

I'd suggest to go with the Alcazar or a used Innova Crysta. These two are quite good with respect to the AT + engine combo. XUV700 is also a good pick but too many niggles as reported on Facebook groups. If you can wait till this year end or Q1 of 2025, Ford might bring in something interesting and I think info is certain that Ford is coming back. I can't reveal the source and date/month as it's highly confidential as of now and the info is from a credible source.

[itsbaman]

Though I am not going to upgrade my car for the next 4-5 years, sometimes I take a look at worthy upgrade options for EcoSport Owner.
The only two cars I consider worthy of upgrade are the Mahindra Scorpio N and the Toyota Innova Hycross. These may not be perfect driver’s cars but excellent overall package without shiny designs like XUV700 and Creta. And then of course there are German twins Slavia and Virtus if you are interested in Sedans, which are perfect driver’s cars. I also own a Rapid and IMHO it is more of a driver’s car than EcoSport.

[LittleHearts]

Dear Sir,

1. A 25L budget brings following cars (6/7 seated capacity) on the selection table:

• XUV 700
• MG Hector/ Plus
• Tata Safari
• Jeep Compass
• Hyundai Alcazar (Recently launched)

2. Few others, although 5 seaters but gives tough competition in consideration:

• Hyundai Creta
• Tata Harrier
• Mahindra Scorpio N

3. Venue and Grand Vitara/ Urban Cruizer or Toyota Hyrider are smaller segment cars, so can be set aside.

4. Now, coming straight to the point, any TATA car at such a price point (25L) is avoidable because of poor after sales service and customer satisfaction. It’s a general observation that TATA cars sell like hot cakes but their service isn’t upto the mark due to the unexpected surge in sales. Now a cleaner may also be seen driving and servicing cars at the workshop, with a professional doing the final inspection. Learning are undergoing ‘On job training’ on customers’ cars.

5. XUV 700 is a great car in all aspects and could have been a perfect car with a potential to compete in Fortuner/ Gloster/ Meridian segment, had the makers fixed the pugs highlighted in succeeeding paras:

• The Tech- Too tachy for a new launch for the first time. I think XUV series will take a couple of generations more to fix/ master the level of tech it brings in a 700. ASS, Alexa, MID and Infotainment screen full of gliches and Service professionals seem to struggle with these.
• Fit and Finish- Not upto the mark, as the alignment and finished product needs more attention.
• Quality plastic- Not befitting a 30L car and seems like a Scorpio.

6. Jeep Compass is the least selling car of all as it has got its own reasons. First things first, it’s too claustrophobic, much smaller (no 7 sweater option) in this segment. Over expensive like other Jeep cars. Driving is also not as thrilling as an XUV or Safari.

7. MG Hector is the best bet among all, specially if the need is a city drive and highway drive is also upto 500kms only, as the engine is bit underpowered. Most attractive is its price including 6/7 seater options and ADAS. Full of never-glitching features and best ‘After sales Service’. Comfort, luxury (as they say), tech, fit and finish, material used, all complement each other and justify the price point. Not to mention the refreshing looks outer and inner, is much better than ever. Lastly the driving is pleasant with ergonomics, control over the vehicle at variable speeds and capability to negotiate heavy traffic mitigates driver fatigue.

8. Hyundai Alcazar is just a 7 seater Creta, so no point spending 23-26 L on a car which comes at 15-18 L price.

PS: The views shared above are based on my experience and are personal. There is no intention of demeaning any car or brand.

[BleueNinja]

Originally Posted by adigoel08

That's awesome! Apart from battery what were the other kind of issues you or your friends have faced? Brakepad changes, suspension noise, football in boot, tech glitches? And how is the ASS? I've heard people say a lot of times that their XUV is mostly in the SS that the road?

There are lot of hearsay but I personally don’t know anyone whose XUV has seen more of Service centre than roads.

I don’t have suspension noise in the car and I don’t think the recent batch of XUVs (2024 onwards) have that either.

I switched to XUV 700 AX5 D AT (7 seater) from Harrier and have had no issues with the car till date. I have completed 20,000 kms in 9 months of ownership. There are some minor glitches with Infotainment but they are not frequent and not deal breakers per se. No issues with MID or any other sensor. However, I am of the opinion that my car should have sorted ergonomics and mechanically should be working fine, I can deal with infotainment issues as they are never a deal breaker for me.

[adigoel08]

Originally Posted by BleueNinja

I switched to XUV 700 AX5 D AT (7 seater) from Harrier and have had no issues with the car till date. I have completed 20,000 kms in 9 months of ownership. There are some minor glitches with Infotainment but they are not frequent and not deal breakers per se. No issues with MID or any other sensor. However, I am of the opinion that my car should have sorted ergonomics and mechanically should be working fine, I can deal with infotainment issues as they are never a deal breaker for me.

That’s very assuring to hear. Have you encountered any DEF issues? How frequent are the glitches with infotainment? And how has your SC experience been so far? And did you check on resale value before buying - some of my acquaintances (not car enthusiasts) are saying this might not have good resale?

[BleueNinja]

Originally Posted by adigoel08

That’s very assuring to hear. Have you encountered any DEF issues? How frequent are the glitches with infotainment? And how has your SC experience been so far? And did you check on resale value before buying - some of my acquaintances (not car enthusiasts) are saying this might not have good resale?

I haven’t encountered any DEF issues as of now.

Glitches in Infotainment are rare and are only occurring when I use android auto but not with Apple car play.

I didn’t check on resale value because i bought a diesel. 7-8 years down the line I am not sure if Diesel will fetch a good resale value & I usually don’t check on resale value of a car while buying it. I like it “in the moment” & I am optimistic it will be a long termer. Harrier proved me wrong sadly but regardless with resale it totally depends on the market trend at the time of you selling your car.

[diwakarmuthu]

I am looking at the following cars now:

1. Jeep Compass Night Eagle - The AT version now is available for 31L after all discounts in BLR. Very tempting, thought priced a bit higher. What I miss is the 4x4, 10 inch screen and a few small ones, rest all are very similar to what we have in the S variant

2. Tata Safari Adventure Plus - I love the new design language, but the Adventure Plus edition cross 33L on road in BLR. Some discounts are available, but I am checking on possibilities

3. XUV700 AX5 or AX7 depending on the discounts. AX7 with the 2.2L discount becomes a VFM option.

4. Mahindra ScorpioN Z8L 4XPLORE - The only car with the 4x4 option, but Body on Frame. I have already driven the Scorpio for 15 years and would like to keep this as last option.

Do you think Jeep Compass is coming at a nice price point now, is it worth taking the gamble considering all things happening around Jeep. If not, I am going to go with the Safari, but discount is key.

[manojrajakrishn]

Originally Posted by diwakarmuthu

I am looking at the following cars now:


Do you think Jeep Compass is coming at a nice price point now, is it worth taking the gamble considering all things happening around Jeep. If not, I am going to go with the Safari, but discount is key.

The only thing that should likely put people back is the resale value of the Jeep Compass. It's a highway cruiser and there is nothing like it.

Personally for me -

• If resale is not an issue the heart says- Jeep Compass

• The head says Tata Safari to an extent for the value it gives but misses the safari storme's SUV nature.

• One thing that the head and heart agree on is a - Scorpio N
  
  Scorpio N - For the stance and the SUV nature, miles ahead of any in the segment with absolute VFM looking at the current market.

[diwakarmuthu]

Originally Posted by manojrajakrishn

• If resale is not an issue the heart says- Jeep Compass

I generally hold on to my cars for its life. Minimum 10 years of ownership is expected. Hope JEEP doesn't pull its plug on India. Also, in my opinion diesel Compass holds their value reasonably

Originally Posted by manojrajakrishn

• The head says Tata Safari to an extent for the value it gives but misses the safari storme's SUV nature.

Agree with you totally. I was not drawn into the Safari when it was launched afresh. But the facelift looks killer and gives a nice premium feel even better than XUV700 in my opinion

Originally Posted by manojrajakrishn

• One thing that the head and heart agree on is a - Scorpio N
  
  Scorpio N - For the stance and the SUV nature, miles ahead of any in the segment with absolute VFM looking at the current market.

Yes, only thing that's stopping me from making it a primary consideration is BoF and I've lived with its elder brother for a good 15 years. I am looking at something else at this point of time , but if I don't get anything interesting, then I will be forced to look at it.

[jkaushik]

Hi bhp-ians, I have messaged here to get a few different viewpoint as I m super confused.
I am considering a new car, different segments:
1. Creta P ivt
2. ScorpioN auto (either D or P, thats a different discussion)
Both top of the line as I need ventilated seats.
Usage 60% highways. ~1200kms monthly.
I know the specs, driven both, Creta is Creta and ScorpioN is surprisingly car like as well.
Question is for u guys:
Over the course of ownership of 8-10yrs, how much of a difference will I feel on livability , experience etc on the ScorpioN over the 1 segment lower Creta.
Is it worth paying 4l more for the SN? Will it be justified value for money?
Will I have a richer experience on the SN? Or it's not worth moving a segment up? Or the more luxurious Creta will age well n be more fulfilling? Also my wife insists on ride comfort more than features.

Note: I drive a ecosport now. It's me n my wife only. I m a sedate driver and enjoy the driving experience.

When I had bought the Ecosport in 2015, I was so certain that it's the only car I wanted, didn't shortlist any other car.
But now, I don't have a car which I "want". Hence all the confusion to get the "perfect car".

Thanks in advance.
Any viewpoints welcome.