I am confused between the Fiat Punto diesel and Hyundai i20 diesel. I like the Punto more since it’s good value for money, but I’ve heard that Fiat after-sale isn’t too good. On the other hand, the i20 has a long waiting period plus it’s expensive. Please advise.
Rajat, via email
The Fiat Punto is a well-built and well-loaded car that is great to drive and has a motor that is frugal and decently peppy. Fiats, however, suffer more in terms of resale value than after-sale service. If that is of prime importance when you plan to upgrade a few years from now, then we suggest you put in the extra money for a Hyundai i20. It may not be as fun to drive nor feel as indestructible as the Punto, but it is spacious, well-finished and loaded and has a peppier and more fuel-efficient engine. Of the two, the i20 is just the safer bet.
Swift choice
I have a family of four and a daily commute of 50 km. My budget is up to Rs 5.5 lakh and I had checked out the Maruti Suzuki Swift, Toyota Etios Liva and the Skoda Fabia. I have settled on the Swift, but a few days ago I saw an advertisement for the Honda Jazz that’s now available at Rs 5.5 lakh. Should I go for the Jazz or should I still buy the Swift? Would it be prudent for me to opt for a diesel car? I plan to keep the car for at least five years. The maintenance should be low and the car should return good mileage.
Rajiv Kapoor, Delhi
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There’s nothing wrong with the Honda Jazz and honestly, at this price, it makes for a very good deal. But we think, since you will be driving about 50 km a day, a diesel is something you may want to strongly consider. The Swift diesel is a competent, well-loaded and well-engineered hatch that has now become a bit more practical and better built and finished than its predecessor. It is refined, comfortable and good fun to drive too. All in all, we say stick with the Swift and it should serve you well.
Mr Sensible
I am planning to buy a sedan and have identified the Maruti Suzuki SX4 VDi and Tata Manza Aura (ABS) Quadrajet. I have been using a Maruti Suzuki Wagon R since 2002 with very minimal maintenance and trouble. My average commute is about 2,500 kms a month with a couple of 1,500 kms journeys a year too. Kindly suggest a suitable sedan for my requirements.
PRK, via email
The Indigo Manza has more space, is better loaded and rides better than the SX4 VDi. What’s more, you get the option of ABS and airbags at a price that is lower than the next SX4, the ZDi. However, since you seem to be happy with Maruti, given your past experience, you could play it safe and stick with the SX4, though the Indigo Manza at that price is better value.
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