Since you want to upgrade from your Tata Nexon to a fun-to-drive manual car, you should consider the Volkswagen Taigun 1.5 TSI MT. The Taigun is one of the best handling midsize SUVs, and its 150hp, 1.5-litre turbo-petrol is one of the punchiest around. 

You could also consider the Skoda Kushaq or the Skoda Slavia/Volkswagen Virtus, but none of those get a manual gearbox option with the 1.5 TSI engine - only a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic. 

Given your requirement and budget, you currently have four options. The Skoda Slavia and Volkswagen Virtus are mechanically identical, and they stand out for their punchy turbo petrol engine options and ride and handling balance. 

The Honda City has a refined 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine and has the best back seat. The Hyundai Verna, meanwhile, has the most features, and it can be had with either a turbo-petrol or a naturally-aspirated petrol engine. 

The Slavia, Virtus and Verna have also received a full, 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP.    

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. 

The Honda City has some inherent strengths. It's got a responsive 121hp, 1.5-litre petrol engine and a smooth CVT automatic gearbox that make it a great city car; the rear seat comfort is excellent, and it also comes with the peace of mind associated with Honda ownership. The City is a sedan you can’t go wrong with, and it’s the more level-headed buy. 

The Skoda Slavia has a lively 115hp, 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, quick-shifting 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox, and crisp handling, making it the more engaging car to drive. It also comes better equipped and does well for itself on rear seat comfort, too. The Skoda also has the tougher build, the plusher ride and superior refinement. 

In our city and highway test loops, the Honda City mileage for the CVT variant stands at 12kpl and 16.4kpl, respectively, clearly outperforming the Slavia mileage, which delivers 10.5kpl and 13.4kpl.

In terms of warranty, the Slavia comes with a standard four-year or 1,00,000km plan, while the City gets you three years/unlimited km warranty. In conclusion, go for the Honda City if you want rear seat comfort and will drive mainly in city confines, and opt for the Skoda Slavia if you prioritise driving pleasure. Read our full comparison review of the two sedans for a more in-depth understanding.