Eeco conscious

I have booked a Maruti Suzuki Eeco seven-seater and the dealer says that they will soon provide an AC version for around Rs 10,000 extra. Is it worth waiting for this version of the Eeco?

Deepak Sarda, via email

We haven’t heard of the Eeco seven seater to be made available with air-conditioning, but we don’t think it will be impossible for Maruti Suzuki to do so. In its current form, the Eeco is quite good value and practical too. It is fairly efficient and is easy to maneouvre despite not having power steering. If at all Maruti does make the seven-seat, air-con fitted version available, we suggest you go for it.

Middle ground
I have almost shortlisted my new car but am a bit confused between the Maruti Suzuki SX4 and Hyundai Verna. I am using a Hyundai Santro Xing since 2004 and I am very happy with the customer service Hyundai is providing. Both the SX4 and Verna have more or less the same price tag, offer similar fuel efficiency figures and nearly the same features. Which of these cars has a refined engine? I am looking for performance, ride comfort and durability.On a side note how about the Tata Indigo Manza? I will be saving some money but will that buy me peace of mind?

Shriniwas Deshpande, via email

The Tata Indigo Manza is great value and a good buy, but Tata Motors’ after-sales service, though greatly improved still isn’t in the same league as Maruti Suzuki or Hyundai. Out of the two, we suggest the SX4 for you. Not only should you get the same peace of mind factor as a Hyundai Verna, but it’s also the better car in terms of ride quality, overall refinement, driving pleasure and fuel efficiency. It also offers a better driving experience, thanks to its torquey 1.6-litre engine. Changing to the Maruti should yield pretty similar results, we believe.

Cousins’ feud
I currently own a Skoda Fabia 1.4 TDI. I am looking to buy the new VW Polo 1.2 TDI. Do you think it will be as fun to drive as the Fabia? Your reviews say that the 1.2 engine is not that responsive. How would you compare the two in terms of features, performance and handling ?

Renil, via email

The 1.2 TDI on the Volkswagen Polo is quite a decent engine. It has a good torque spread and the gearing is apt for both city and highway driving. It isn’t a performance hatch, mind you, but should do the job well. In comparison to the Skoda Fabia, it is nearly as entertaining to drive when it comes to engine performance. The Polo though is better when it comes to handling. The Fabia is pricier, but offers more features.

Any automotive questions? Ask us at bijoy.y@bsmail.in