Style and substance

I travel about 60 km a day on an average, with the AC on all the time, and the petrol bills are eating into my pocket. So I want to go for a diesel car, which also is stylish. My dilemma is between the Skoda Octavia TDi and Hyundai Elantra CRDi. Which is a better technology, TDi or CRDi? Which is better in performance?

Is TDi outdated? I have heard in the market that Hyundai's CRDi units are in short supply, and that getting parts and service is going to be difficult. Also, is the Octavia a hatchback technically? Any disadvantages in it being one?

The Elantra does not have the Octavia's good looks, but it comes with ABS, which the Skoda's Ambiente version does not have "� for city driving, does this make a difference? I wish I could get the Elantra's interiors and the looks of the Octavia.

Rupanagudi Ravi Shankar
Hyderabad

Go for the Octavia TDi. CRDi technology is any day better, but in your case, you are looking for a stylish diesel car that is economical to run "� for which, the Octavia meets your demands very well.

The Octavia TDi is advanced enough to give you reasonably good performance, good refinement and 14-15 kpl on a regular basis. Test drive both cars before you make your decision though.

Ikonoclastic

I am looking for a no-nonsense car that will provide me trouble-free service for around 4 to 5 years. I hit the highway once in a quarter and drive about 40 km daily in the city. I have shortlisted the Ford Ikon 1.6 Exi and the Hyundai Accent 1.5 GVS. The Ford has great performance, sharp looks, a good rear seat and now, wider tyres.

The Hyundai, on the other hand, has neat looks, more appeal, softer suspension and is slightly more expensive than the Ikon, although it is a little sluggish. Which is the better of the two, keeping in mind performance, durability/ruggedness, fuel efficiency, trouble-free maintenance and an operational life of at least 4-5 years (ie, the car will be in production that long). I am keen to buy the Ford and am getting a good discounted deal on it, but I need your input.

Rohit
via email

We think you should buy the Accent 1.5 GVS "� it is an all-round performer that offers reasonable performance with agreeable fuel efficiency. The Ikon 1.6 Exi is expensive to maintain in the long run and drops its value sharply the moment it rolls out of the showroom.

These are reasons why you don't get to see Ikon 1.6 models being recommended much through our Which Car? section these days. That said, also take a look at the Ikon 1.3 Flair "� a value-for-money Ford which makes sense when bought with a maintenance plan.

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