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WHICH CAR?

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BS Motoring Mumbai
For real off-road applications, please choose the four-wheel drive version of the Bolero. It is not very comfortable compared to the other utility vehicles that you have listed, but it is extremely capable when it comes to off-roading. You can also get a four-wheel drive version of the Scorpio for an additional Rs 50,000.  Actually 'now' is a good time to buy, since you can expect good discounts at dealerships for cars that were built last year. In your case, you may have to place a special order for four-wheel drive cars as they are built against orders.  Art of upgrading  FUN TO DRIVE  I drive approximately 10-15 km daily. Currently I drive a Zen, but would like to upgrade. I am contemplating a slightly bigger car with a boot . I enjoy driving and hence am upgrading more for fun and pleasure and an occasional out-of-town trip. Hence, I am looking for a slightly used car to fit the budget. Which would be a better bet:
  1. Honda City,
  2. Hyundai Accent,
  3. Opel Corsa,
  4. New Tata Indigo

Nirmal, via email

If you are looking for a fun-to-drive automobile, then look no further than a low-mileage Honda City (the old model). The best bet would be a 1.5 VTEC version, but the 1.3 and 1.5 versions are also capable of putting a smile on your face. They are all well built, very fuel efficient and have virtually bullet-proof engines. The trade-offs are a lack of rear legroom and a slightly stiff ride, but you'll enjoy the car anyway.  Next best  GROWN UP HATCH  I want to buy a petrol car which gives me good mileage and is easy to maintain. My budget is around Rs 5 to Rs 5.5 lakh. My usage is mainly for city driving, around 25 to 30 km per day. Occasionally, I use the car for long/high way drives.  Right now, I have a Santro (2000 model). Please also consider the service provided by different companies in my city, Hyderabad. With Hyundai service providers, I don't have any problems as of now. I have short-listed the following models:
  1. Hyundai Getz,
  2. Opel Corsa,
  3. Fiat Palio

Dhanamjaya Reddy, Hyderabad

The Hyundai Getz is a brilliant car to graduate to if you have been driving a Santro. The Getz is bigger, more spacious, has a bigger engine and returns 12-14 kpl when driven carefully.  If you are ready to wait a while, you can also consider the Suzuki Swift, which is a contemporary car and one that should give the Getz a run for its money.

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First Published: Jan 08 2005 | 12:00 AM IST

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