Be Swift

WHICH CAR?

I wish to buy a new car. Right now I drive a Hyundai Santro Xing and my average daily run is 100 km. Kindly suggest a diesel car for me. I will be driving the car myself, and I have shortlisted the Suzuki Swift VDi and Mahindra Renault Logan. Which is the better car in terms of driving ease, comfort, fuel economy and resale value? Kindly help me out.

Ravish Koorich, via email

As a self driven car, the Swift scores over the Logan — it is easier to drive and park and gives excellent mileage too. The Logan has its strengths — better ride quality on bad roads and a huge boot come as a bonus. But we think you will be quite happy with the fun-to-drive Swift!

 

It’s A 4X4

Recently I have been offered the following:

 

 

Ford Endeavour 4x4, 2005 model, has done 65,000 km; asking price is Rs 10 lakh

Ford Endeavour 4x4, 2007 model, has done 25,000 km; asking price is Rs 14.5 lakh

I am basically looking to replace my old Gypsy 4 x 4. I request your opinion on the following:

How much residual life remains in the Ford Endeavour having done the above mileages?

What mileage does it generally return?

What should be the correct offer price for the above pre-owned vehicles?

How would you compare it to a new Toyota Innova?

I value your advice and would appreciate an early response.

Rajata Mehra, Lucknow

If it was up to us, we would go for the new Innova, unless off-roading is a priority and you need a 4x4 vehicle. The used car prices you mention are on the higher side — a 65,000 km Endeavour should come for Rs 8 lakh or so.

Good Vibes

I wish to upgrade from the Ford Ikon 1.6 I’ve been driving for the last four years. My budget is Rs 8-9 lakh and I have been closely considering the Suzuki SX4. I think it offers very good value for money, and there’s the huge Maruti service network as well. However, I also like the looks of the new Honda City — it’s very futuristic and cutting-edge. Between the two, which one should I go for? I’m not that concerned about fuel economy, frankly — I want a car that will make me feel good.

Rajat Mishra, New Delhi

The SX4 is undoubtedly a value for money offering, and it’s a fun car to drive as well. However, we would have to rate the new Honda City one notch over it. It’s absolutely contemporary, has a superb VTEC engine, is fun to drive, safe and fuel efficient and will definitely make you feel special. In addition, it’ll hold its value better than the SX4. Go for it!

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