Flair decision

WHICH CAR?

Q: I need some advice on the car I should purchase. I have two options in my mind (budget around Rs 5.5 lakh, don't want to go above that) "� the Esteem VXi and the Ford Ikon Flair. Price-wise, both are in the same range. But the Esteem VXi is a fully loaded version. Though I would say that the Ikon Flair matches up on most of the factors, except for cosmetics. Both have power steering, power windows, etc. I would like to have some idea of the maintenance costs of both cars and also their fuel efficiency. I intend to drive the car to office and back, a total of around 20 km per day.

Ashish Nijhawan, Bangalore

A: The Ford Ikon 1.3 Flair is a good package and we have recommended it a lot. But of late, we have had far too many issues from Ford owners who complain of terrible and expensive service, which has forced us to change our opinion somewhat.

The Esteem, on the other hand, is decidedly an old car, but once you are ready to accept that fact, you do get a fuel efficient, reliable machine that is easy on maintenance in the long term.

Between the two, the Ikon offers better ride quality and handling though. Test drive both cars before you decide.

People mover

Q: I own a Santro. Since my family consists of eight adults, I do more than one trip when I travel within the city and I don't travel outside the city (for obvious reasons). I also use the car to go to office. I need a car that can take in eight adults, yet be easy to drive in the city. I don't like the Versa. I'm looking at the Bolero GLX. However, I can't go for the Scorpio because my budget is Rs 5 lakh and I don't have adequate parking space at home. Would you suggest I go for the Bolero then? Or is there any other car that suits my requirements? It is essential that the vehicle shouldn't break down often, and even if it does, I should be able to get it serviced easily.

Naveen Kumar, via email

The Mahindra Bolero should fit the bill, though it is not exactly comfortable a car. Still, it will be economical and easy to maintain, and these are the values that you are looking for, right?

You may not like the Versa, but we urge you to take a test drive, because for the money, it is a fab deal and quite a safe bet to ferry people too.

Planning to buy a car or bike? Ask us at bijoy@business-standard.com