Features: Magazine | Literary Review | Life | Metro Plus | Open Page | Education Plus | Book Review | Business | SciTech | Friday Review | Young World | Property Plus | Quest | Folio |

Virtual Mechanic

Car and bike questions? We have the answers

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.

Write in with your queries to wheels@thehindu.co.in

Printer friendly page  
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail