Friend indeed!

WHICH CAR?

One of my friends is looking for a new car within Rs 6 lakh (on road). Shortlisted are the Ford Flair, the Fiat Petra 1.6, the Accent GLE and the Baleno LXi. His main concerns are comfortable ride (especially back seat "� sitting and knee space), driving pleasure, fuel efficiency and maintenance costs after a year. He will be driving 40-50 km a day.

Pranaay,
via email

Would advise him to choose between the Baleno and the Ford Ikon 1.3 Anniversary "� a limited edition, with leather seats and various other bits and bobs "� at Rs 5 lakh ex-showroom, good value for money. While both cars ride well and are comfortable in the rear seat, both are also extremely satisfying to drive.

The Baleno probably represents better value for money overall "� a 1.6 litre engine, similar fuel economy as the smaller Ikon, and Maruti service. If your friend is worried about resale value though, the Accent is the best deal of the lot "� though it's not all that brilliant for ride or rear seat comfort... nor is it a driver's car!

Tall boy ahoy

I have to buy a new car. My budget is around Rs 4 lakh, while the distance to be travelled everyday is 60-70 km. Therefore, good fuel economy is a must. My height is around 6 ft, so good leg space and height are also required. Lastly, the car should have an efficient air conditioner.

Amit Arora,
Noida

Try out the Maruti Suzuki Wagon R and pick the variant that suits your budget best "� would really advise the LXi for you "� it's best value for money and comes with an excellent power steering system. Air con is efficient too.

If you want a bit more legroom in the driver's seat and are willing to compromise slightly in the headroom department, the Hyundai Santro Xing XP is a good choice to make instead. Both offer about 14 kpl if you are gentle with the accelerator and maintain a smooth driving style and are careful during running-in.

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