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Virtual Mechanic

I plan to buy a new car. My driving is mostly limited to the city with a max of 30 to 40 km a day. I'm looking at the Indigo - both petrol and diesel versions. Can you offer me your opinion and an alternative (three-box car within Rs 5.5 lakh)? I need your advice ASAP, as I have to make my purchase almost immediately.

Shravan Srinivas, via email

Go for the diesel Indigo. Since you drive 40km a day, the diesel will be cheaper to run. And you know how petrol prices are skyrocketing. Your other options are the Accent 1.5, which is slightly above your budget and the Ikon 1.3 Flair, which though it's not a diesel, is a good option at the price.

I would like to upgrade from my Maruti 800 to a better car. I have a back problem and I need a higher seat and good suspension. My budget is Rs. 5 lakh. The seating in the Wagon R and Santro is good, but I need a bigger car that's more comfortable. My driving is within the city and I average 1,000 km a month. Once in a month, I make a long 200 km trip. Kindly give your opinion about Swift, Getz and Ikon. Please factor in fuel economy and maintenance costs.

P Sadanandan, via email

The Getz is the car for you. It is a good highway machine also. The Getz has a better ride than the Swift and features a seating position that is higher than the Ikon's, so you won't have to crouch to get in. It falls within your budget, looks sharp and has enough space for five people. Hyundai has a wide service network to back you up, while the car is also reliable.

I plan to buy an SUV between Rs. 15 and Rs. 21 lakh, and I need to choose one with power, looks and economy. I have shortlisted the Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, and Nissan X-Trail. Which one do I pick? Are any new SUVs coming to India?

Vinay Prashanth, via email

The X-Trail is above your budget, but if you can stretch it a bit, this is the machine to choose. It has the power, the looks and offers good mileage. However, servicing may not be so easy. The Tucson is good because it is diesel, has good power and can go off-road. Choose the CR-V if you love refinement and petrol performance - it's bound to be expensive with fuel though.

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