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virtual mechanic
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Car and bike questions? We have the answers
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I want to buy a car and my budget is Rs three lakh. I have short-listed the Maruti Alto and the Chevrolet Spark. Which of these is better with regard to mileage, safety and maintenance? Also, please suggest other options besides the ones I have mentioned.
Suresh
We would suggest the Spark over the Alto. It has a better design, is spacious and does most things better than the Alto. Maintenance wise, the Alto may be better than the Spark. But overall, the Spark would be a good choice.
Ever since the Logan saloon has been launched, I have been awaiting the claimed seven-seater MPV from Mahindra. Earlier, I had heard that it would be launched by mid-08. Is this true? Are there any good MPVs available for me now? How is the new Rhino?
Satish
The MPV from Mahindra is expected only in 2009. Right now, the Innova is the top dog in the MPV segment. If you want something that’s a little less expensive; there is the Tavera and now the new Sumo Grande, which is also an able performer. We will not recommend the Rhino simply because the dealer network is not as big which means servicing could be a problem.
I want to buy a diesel SUV and have a budget of Rs 20 lakh. I have short-listed the Ford Endeavour and Pajero. My friends feel that the Pajero looks outdated. What other options do I have?
Chitty Raja
Yes, the Pajero CRZ sold here is an old design; it is the second generation Pajero. The latest Pajero is being sold as the Montero but unfortunately, it is out of your budget. The Endeavour is a good choice for off-roading, but the back seats aren’t very comfortable due to the high floor and the ride is bumpy because of its leaf spring suspension.
Alternatively, you have the new Chevrolet Captiva, which is also a capable soft-roader. It is available only in 2-wheel drive, so off-roading is not something which it can easily do. We suggest the Endeavour if you are into off-roading and the Captiva, if you are going to drive in the city.
I really like travelling and want to buy a SUV or MUV and my budget is Rs 8-9 lakh. My priorities are a powerful engine, good mileage, comfortable seats, a car that can fit a family of four and one with low maintenance. I have considered the Scorpio, Safari, Tavera and Innova? Tell me which is the best for me.
Rajasekhar
If you want an MUV, go for the Innova, it is reliable, comfortable and easy to drive. If you want to go for an SUV, you might want to take a look at the Scorpio M-hawk. The old handling problem has been sorted and it drives much better than before. But for practicality, we would take the Innova any day.
I plan to buy a sedan and have narrowed my option to the SX4, Honda City and Hyundai Verna. Of these, which do you suggest is most suitable for me? My priorities are mileage, easily available parts and comfort.
Arun Prakash
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Out of these, the Honda City is the best all-rounder. The iDSI engine is frugal and doesn’t feel low on power. It rides reasonably well and is also very reliable. You can’t go wrong with the Honda.
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Metro Plus
Bangalore
Chennai
Coimbatore
Delhi
Hyderabad
Kochi
Madurai
Mangalore
Puducherry
Tiruchirapalli
Thiruvananthapuram
Vijayawada
Visakhapatnam
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