Diesel selection

WHICH CAR?

I am planning to buy a diesel car and the choice is between the Mitsubishi Lancer, Hyundai Elantra and the Ford Fiesta. I do like the Lancer as it is a tried and tested product, but it seems dated. I like the Elantra especially for its safety features (I drive extensively on the highways), but am only apprehensive of its Korean tag and resale value. The Fiesta again am doubtful because of Ford's nagging problems and resale value. I drive 90-120 km a day and change my car every three years, so resale value is important for me. My budget is a maximum of Rs 9 lakh. Is there a better option?

Varun Dhesi, via email

Your observations on the cars you have shortlisted are more or less correct. The Lancer is a bit long in the tooth but it's still a very reliable and economical car to run. HM has however introduced the Lancer Cedia, and a new age diesel engine is also planned.

The Elantra is feature rich all right, but it is getting a replacement in some markets and India will soon get it too. That gets us to the Fiesta "" the little Ford has a state-of-the-art diesel power pack and if you maintain it carefully, should serve you very well.

Between the three, the Fiesta Duratorq will retain value better too. The Fiesta is a well conceived car that rides well on Indian roads and has the right credentials to be your next car.

City car

I am a retired engineer on the lookout for a petrol car within Rs 3 to 3.5 lakh, as I do not like the sound and smell of diesel engines. My driving is mostly within Delhi city, about 30 km per day. I want a car that is economical to maintain, fuel efficient even with the AC switched on and it should be comfortable to drive. Can you recommend a car which will fetch me good resale value after five years or so?

Arun Kumar Das, New Delhi

You should choose between the Hyundai Santro and the Maruti Suzuki Wagon R. Both these cars are cheap to buy and run, and have an exceptional reliability record too. Between the two, the Santro has a trifle more room at the rear while the Wagon R has the edge in performance.

The Wagon R also comes with an LPG option, which is more economical to run (and does not smell half as bad as diesel too).

All gas

I am looking for a midsize sedan in the price range of Rs 5.5 to 6 lakh. My daily running is approximately 100 km within Delhi. Is there any model in CNG or are there any plans by any manufacturer to introduce a CNG model within the next six months? If not, which is the vehicle that's best suited for my needs?

O S Pandey, New Delhi

General Motors India has just launched the CNG version of its sedan, the Chevrolet Optra. Sure, it costs over Rs 7.5 lakh but with 100 km a day to drive, you should still consider it. The Optra is very well made and offers good ride quality over even bad terrain.

Any automotive questions?Ask us at
bijoy@business-standard.com