I want a new car in the range of Rs 7-11 lakh. My requirements are ample rear legroom, as most of my family members are on the taller side, ABS, good fuel efficiency (diesel is preferable), a well-designed dashboard, rear seat comfort and good interiors. I will be driving the car for around 1000 km every week and have shortlisted the Chevrolet Optra Magnum, Ford Fiesta, Hyundai Verna and Fiat Linea. Which of these is more suited for me?
Virendra Zope, Nashik
The Optra Magnum is the car for you. It fits well within your budget and by being a big car, it offers lots of interior space, especially at the back. The diesel motor is powerful and frugal as well, while the interiors are well-appointed too. And yes, it comes with ABS. Besides, GM’s after-sales network is pretty good, so there’s no need to be worried about long-distance trips either.
Hatch or sedan?
I want to buy a car. My options are a new Maruti Ritz or a Fiat Punto or a second-hand sedan. My budget is Rs 4 to 4.5 lakh. My main requirements are good trunk space and good fuel efficiency. I drive for a maximum of seven kms a day. Do I buy a new hatchback or can I get a decent second-hand sedan for that price? If so, which one?
Vinayak Dave , via email
Given your limited running, the Ritz is the car you should buy. It has practical interiors with good boot space and the engine is frugal too. A second-hand sedan doesn’t make sense because sooner or later, you will have to spend more on it than a new car. The Ritz is a fresh design with a new engine that won’t require any work, besides regular servicing to keep it going for a long time.
Economy first
In an advertisement, Ford claims a fuel consumption of 28.5 km per litre for the Ikon petrol. Is this claim valid? My budget is around Rs 4.75 lakh and my first preference is low running costs, as I have to travel 100 km every day. Should I go in for the Ikon petrol? Please advise.
Minesh Thakkar , via email
If you manage to drive in ideal conditions, such numbers are possible. But in the real world, it is not possible to do so. If low running costs are your priority, then we would suggest the Ford Ikon diesel. It is the more frugal of the two Ikons and since it is powered by the Fiesta’s diesel engine, it is fun to drive too. The Ikon’s road manners have always been good and since the facelift a few months ago, it looks fresher as well.
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