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Virtual Mechanic

Car and bike questions? We have the answers

I plan to buy a diesel car and have narrowed down my choice to the Chevrolet Tavera and Mahindra Scorpio. The vehicle will be used for a mix of long inter-city drives as well as city driving. Could you help me make a decision?

Hemlata, via email

The New Scorpio feels much nicer to drive overall compared to the Tavera. Besides it is good for city driving since it's easy to manoeuvre, and has plenty of power for the highway as well. However, the Tavera has better handling and rides better too, but that's not enough to make it a better buy. We would still urge you to buy the Scorpio.

I was planning to buy a new luxury car and have shortlisted the Honda City VTEC, Honda Civic manual, Skoda Octavia Rider, and Toyota Corolla H2. My priorities are comfortable interiors, good mileage, low maintenance and a good ride. Which one should I go for?

M Saad, via email

Considering your needs, the Honda Civic stands out as the best among your shortlist. We do feel that it is clearly the best car in its class today. Go for it.

I currently own a Tata Indigo TDi and am planning to exchange it with a more refined diesel sedan. I heard that Maruti will soon be launching its new Baleno with a multijet diesel engine in mid-2007. I was planning to buy the Hyundai Verna, but can you tell me if the new Baleno diesel is worth waiting for?

Ankush Hastir, via email

The Baleno diesel promises to be a fantastic car, but is still some time away and might entail a long wait for you. Instead, we suggest you go in for the Verna diesel, which has just come out

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

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