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Virtual mechanic

Car and bike questions? We have the answers


I want to buy a new car for my daily commute that is low maintenance and gives good mileage. I’m considering the diesel variants of the Indica Vista, Hyundai Verna and new Skoda Laura. Please advise.

Parag Mutha

The cars you have shortlisted are from a wide range, and the best option really depends on your budget. Since you currently own a Ford Ikon 1.6, we feel the Verna diesel would be a logical upgrade. It is also best suited for you because after the fun-to-drive character of the Ikon, the Verna will give you more driving pleasure (thanks to its potent 110bhp diesel engine) than other diesels you have mentioned. If you can spend more, then the Laura diesel is also a good option. However, if you want to escape the frustrations of regular maintenance, a safe bet would be the Volkswagen Jetta as market reports suggest that the aftersales for VW is better than Skoda.

Toyota Innova, Tata Safari and Mahindra Scorpio, which is better in performance, stability and luxury over long distances?

D. Sabari Eswaran

Of the three, the Toyota Innova has the most comfortable seating. It has a smooth engine, it’s a good cruiser and is a stable car to drive on the highways. If you aren’t driving, you could also look at the Tata Safari.

I currently drive the Tata Indica DLS and I am planning to upgrade to a bigger diesel car, I drive an average 1,500 km a month. Help me choose a car from the following three options: Fiat Linea Emotion Pk, Ford Fiesta 1.4 TDCi SXI and Verna 1.5 SX CRDi VGT.

Karthikeyan Mathiyalagan

The Fiat Linea is available with good equipment. Other positives of the Linea include good power and mileage. It’s a car that has a solid feel to it and offers good on-road stability. The Verna looks a bit outdated whereas the Fiesta is not as nice as the Linea on the highway.

I plan to buy my first car. I run approximately 18,000 km a year — city and highways combined. My budget is between Rs 4.5 lakh and Rs. 5.5 lakh. I have narrowed my options down to the Swift VDI, Ritz ZXi and Ritz VDi. Also, which of the two cars commands a better resale value?

Shalini Gupta

If mileage is your main concern, you should go in for a diesel. The Ritz VDi is a good city car, but the Swift gets the better of it on the highway. We think the Swift will have better resale value.

I would like to know which car is better, the Honda Civic or the all new Toyota Corolla Altis in terms of style and comfort.

Keith Ashley Percy

We can’t comment on the style factor but in terms of comfort, the Civic gains the upper hand with its pleasant interiors, looks and all round driveability. The Corolla, on the other hand, has seats that are more comfortable and placed higher. So getting in and out of the Altis is easier. We think the Altis would be better for you as you travel long distances often.

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