'Big' confusion

WHICH CAR?

Look no further than the Mitsubishi Montero. It can seat seven, is fairly powerful and has a decent suspension setup for even expressway drives. Besides, it runs on diesel, so it should make for "not too high" cost of running. The Montero comes with a lot of equipment as standard, and will serve you well.

The Gypsy Kings

I'm a 42-year old senior executive with a pharma company and am looking to buy a 4WD vehicle for the weekends. I intend to spend not more than Rs 7 lakh and need something that is hardy and is good to drive on a beaten path for some serious off-roading. I'm aware that the Maruti Gypsy King does fit most of my requirements, since I used to drive one during my college days. Is there anything else that I should consider? Also, are Maruti Gypsy Kings still available for civilians?

Rajesh Rao, via email

While Mahindra does offer the Invader, its only visible benefit over the Gypsy is the frugal diesel engine. But if you seriously consider off-roading, the Gypsy King is still the only viable option in your budget. It offers decent performance even on-road while being a true mountain goat. Yes, the Gypsy King is still available for civilians, but is built-to-order and has a waiting period of one to two months.

Earnings and learnings

I'm an MBA student and am planning to upgrade from my four-year old Wagon R and go in for a larger hatchback with my father's money. My daily running is about 50-60 km involving mostly highway driving since my college is based in Gurgaon. I've narrowed my choice down to either the Maruti Suzuki Swift VXi or the Hyundai Getz GLS. Good fuel efficiency and lower cost of spares are important since I will have to make do with my pocket money. I've had no problems with Maruti so far, but have no experience with Hyundai. What do you suggest?

Chetan Rai, New Delhi

If you are brand loyal, the Maruti Swift won't disappoint you. It looks contemporary, is more fun to drive and is something you would appreciate at your age. Besides it is fairly fuel efficient and spares are priced competitively, so your pocket money does more or less stay in your pocket. The Swift does appear as the sensible choice for you.

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