Upgrading down

I own a very old Maruti Esteem. I want to move to a smaller car with a better ride, given the state of the roads and traffic in Bangalore. I found the Suzuki Swift a bit impractical, as it has little cabin space in comparison to its size. I really liked the Hyundai Getz, until a colleague bought the Tata Indica Xeta. Since my budget was closer to the Getz's, I looked at Tata's other offerings "� the Indica Turbo and the Marina Turbo. The Marina is available at a price slightly higher than the Getz in Bangalore, making it a very attractive purchase. I did not like some of the interior and exterior touches in the Tata vehicles, but some of these can be overlooked. Which car would you recommend between the Indica Turbo, the Marina diesel and the Getz, since they come in a similar price range (I've almost disqualified the Turbo for its looks). I drive about 35 km a day, and go on long drives (250 to 300 km) once a month. I love driving and would like a really responsive vehicle. But I'd rate my parameters in this order: ride, fuel economy, maintenance and driving pleasure.

Vinay Rao, Bangalore

Ha, you impressed us by saying that you wanted something smaller than what you are driving now... But you ended up in a queue for the Indigo Marina! It is indeed an attractive proposition for almost the same price as the Getz. But do not expect the same level of engine/gearbox refinement from the Tata as compared to the Hyundai. If you are ready to live with that and ensure that you do your routine maintenance well, the Indigo Marina is a good buy. Think again, didn't you start off looking for something smaller for Bangalore roads? How about a Maruti Wagon R instead?

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