Travelling from Puerto Escondido

I am planning to drive from Puerto Escondido to Oaxaca this coming week. I can't decide whether to take 175 from Pochutla or take the advice of a friend and go the long way around on 190 via Salina Cruz/Tehuantepec to avoid the winding, narrow 175. Time is not a huge factor for me and I would like to see some of the prettier sights available. Any thoughts on the best way to go given current road conditions, road blocks, etc.?

I just took a van from Puerto to Oaxaca via Sola de Vega on Highway 131, the first part when leaving Puerto is pretty bad.
The 175 to Potchutla is in better condition but if you don't mind going the long way around via Salina Cruz you will find it more comfortable.

I was told that the road has been improved from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido and that it now takes about 3 1/2 to 4 hours. Is this true?

no. so Oaxaca city is a home away from home.