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Virtual Mechanic

Car and bike questions? We have the answers

My budget is around Rs 5 lakh and I have narrowed my choice down to either the Maruti Swift or the Ford Ikon Flair. We will use the car for long trips at least thrice a year and need to carry quite a bit of luggage on these trips. What bothers me is the availability of spares for the Ikon in the years to come and the fear of getting stuck with a model which is outdated and out of production. Please advise.

Prashant G, via email

Obviously you need a boot, so the Flair is definitely a better option for you. Also please remember that the Ikon Flair is still being produced so it's not like the Ikon has already been phased out just yet. In fact, India happens to be the mother plant for Ikon production globally, so if there is any place in the world where you will still continue to get parts for Ikon, it will be India. Ford has been making efforts at reducing spares prices as well. But the Ikon is still relatively expensive to maintain and will cost you more in the long run than a Swift.

I am keen to buy the three-door version of the Zen because it appeals to me the most. I have asked for it at Maruti dealerships but they don't seem to have it in stock. Can you tell me where I buy this version of the Zen?

Gaurav Arora, via email

Unfortunately, Maruti manufactured the three-door Zen only for the export market. Some time back, the company did sell a few of these cars in the Indian market as the `Carbon' and `Steel'. But these supplies have stopped a long time back. In fact, production of the Zen itself has stopped as Maruti is in the midst of updating its range of cars in India. Perhaps the new Swift would be a better bet for you.

I currently own a Maruti 800 and am keen to upgrade to a new car around Rs 6-7 lakh. I need a car that can accommodate five people comfortably with good rear seat legroom and plenty of luggage space. I am prepared to overlook performance, but want good ride and handling. My daily drive is around 30km with about 70 per cent in the city and the rest on the highway. Also, the car should have low running and maintenance costs. I am considering the Hyundai Getz, Ford Fiesta 1.4 P, Ford Fusion and Honda City. If you suggest, I am willing to consider a diesel car. Can you tell me whether the Getz CRDi will be launched shortly?

S P Kashyapi

Choose the Honda City ZX, even though it's the most expensive amongst the list of cars you are considering. This is because it is comfortable, reliable and performs very well on short drives on good roads. The Fiesta 1.4 P is another good option for you and is good value for money as well. However its interiors are not as spacious. The Getz CRDi is still some time away from launch.

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

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