Small considerations

WHICH CAR?

I want to buy a small car and my budget is about Rs 4 lakh. My priority is fuel efficiency and good legroom. My driving revolves mostly around city with some highway mileage too. Business demands regular rural visits, which will also entail use of this car. The car should be fun to drive and involve minimum maintenance as it will be my first car. I've shortlisted the Chevrolet Spark (especially the fully loaded LT) and Maruti Suzuki Wagon R Duo (because of its fuel efficiency). But I am a little confused over which one to choose. Please advise.

Madhur Biyani, via email

Looking at your requirements, the Chevrolet Spark LT makes a lot of sense. It is the most fun-to-drive car in its segment, has decent amount of space and is also reasonably fuel efficient. The LT also has safety features like a driver's side airbag and ABS, features not present on the Wagon R Duo. Add the fact that GM has priced its spare parts competitively and the 3 year/1,00,000 km warranty and there's a good deal to be had.

Japanese conundrum

I intend to purchase a midsize car. The Honda City is dated, while the Maruti Suzuki SX4 is not very appealing. Is Toyota planning to launch a midsize car in the same price bracket? If so, when and what model will be introduced in Indian market? Is it worth the wait or should I go ahead with either the City or SX4. My daily drive is around 15 km , primarily urban use.

Ranjith Reddy, via email

If you think that the Honda City or Maruti Suzuki SX4 are not up your alley, why not try the Toyota Corolla Executive instead. For a little more money you get a car that is a leg up over the City or SX4 in terms of performance and space, while returning good fuel efficiency too. Corollas also hold decent resale values and parts aren't too expensive either. There has been talk of the Toyota Vios, a midsize sedan for India, but don't expect it anytime soon.

At sixes and sevens

I am planning to buy a new car and would need your guidance for the same.
Here are my requirements:
1. Average daily driving: 25 km
2. Self driven
3. Budget: up to Rs 6.5 lakh
4. It should also be easy to drive and fuel efficient
The cars in consideration are the Swift diesel, Ford Fiesta 1.4, used Chevrolet Aveo 1.6, Chevrolet Aveo U-VA, Tata Indigo diesel and the Ford Ikon 1.3. The waiting period for the Swift diesel is too long while I've heard that the mileage of the U-VA isn't as good as the Swift petrol or Getz. The Ford Ikon is too old while the Indigo diesel lacks class. I am not too fond of the Chevrolet Aveo 1.6's performance. I like the Fiesta 1.4, but am not sure if it is the right buy, given it is slightly over my budget. What do you suggest?

Parikshit, Bangalore

If you are getting a good deal on the Ford Fiesta 1.4 and if your heart is bent towards it, give it due consideration. It is fairly comfortable, rides very well, has above average fuel efficiency and tends to hold resale value better than previous Fords. It's also very well put together with reasonably peppy performance. Haggle with your dealer for some discounts and it might come within your budget requirements.

Any automotive questions?
Ask us at bijoy.y@bsmail.in