It's time to sell our 2K2 Octavia 1.9 and I can't decide what to buy next. Though extremely happy with the amazing turbodiesel unit, I want something different. We already have the Elantra CRDi and hence have no other oil-burner options. I can't make up my mind between the Corolla manual and the Octy RS/Rider. I LOVE to drive, but am trying hard to become a practical person. Is the rice rocket a more practical option than the Czech twins?
Another thing that bothers me is the price of the RS. Should I stretch a (fair) bit and opt for the 2.4 Accord manual instead? Petrol bills worry me a lot because I'll have to pay those while sharing the EMIs with my dad. Please show me the light...
Goliath, via email
As for your next car, change is good, right? You have had an Octavia for long and it is time you had something nice and different. The Corolla 1.8 is no match for the RS or the 1.8 turbo petrol variants of the Octavia – but yes, it is practical and not so boring to drive too.
That engine in the Corolla is shared by the MR-S/MR2 sports car, in case you are interested. The Corolla is economical to drive and peppy enough when you want it to be. We don't like the unexciting interiors though. But then, it is a Toyota and you get bulletproof reliability and economy in the long run.
B for airbags
I'm interested in buying a B-segment car, since I'd primarily be driving within the city. I am struggling to choose between the Hyundai Santro, Maruti Zen and Maruti Wagon R. The car should have decent pick-up and offer good mileage within the city. And once in a month or so, I want to go on long drives with my family, hence the vehicle should be as safe as possible.
It should also be reliable, with a low probability of manufacturing defects. I don't mind spending a bit more for maintenance, but I should get spares easily and service should never be a problem. It should also have reasonable rear legroom and give me driving comfort. With this being the situation, can you advise me accordingly?
Venugopal OL, via email
Essentially, you want a new age car that is reliable, economical, safe and comfortable to drive, right? From the shortlist you have given, we suggest you buy the new Wagon R – with airbags and ABS (it is worth spending a bit more for these safety bits). Now if you are ready to wait, the Suzuki Swift will be in showrooms soon. You may get all of the above, and a slightly bigger and more contemporary car too.
Minivan time
You have an excellent website for those looking to buy a car in India. It's unfortunate that I didn't find your website a year ago when I was shopping for a car for my sister's wedding gift. Now on to my question: I am an NRI living in the US for the last six years. I am planning to move to India (Bangalore, specifically) at the end of this year or next year.
I drive a Toyota Corolla S here in the US and I would like to buy a car in India which has similar features. I know the Corolla is available in India, but I don't want to buy another one. My budget is Rs 10 lakh or less. Anyway, I looked at the Honda City and the Chevy Optra – both looked good. I would mainly be using it for city driving and for weekend trips to nearby places. Can you please advise?
Bala, USA
Assuming that you will have relatives here in India, you may be well advised to buy an MPV – how about the Toyota Innova? It is big, but can be driven like a car and you get a good choice between diesel and petrol too. Best of all, you get ABS and airbags for the top end model, making it a very safe choice.
If you are very much a car person (and not a van person), then we suggest you take a look at the Skoda Octavia or the Hyundai Elantra. Both are a bit dated overall, but there are a few feature rich variants that will suit your budget.
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