Hatch me if you can

I plan to buy a hatchback in the range of Rs 6 lakh to 7 lakh. My current usage will be about 8,000 km a year. I am over 6 ft 3 inches tall and am considering the Maruti Suzuki Swift. Do you think it's a wise decision?

Naresh, via email

Yes, the Swift is indeed a car that will meet your requirements — it manages to keep even tall people happy in the driver's seat, which somehow the Volkswagen Polo has not managed. The Swift is a reliable car that is fun to drive as well as fuel efficient. You can't go wrong with it.

A new lease of life

I am planning to go in for a new car. My average usage is around 800 to 1,000 km a month, with a highway drive once in three or four months. Many of my friends are suggesting that I buy a diesel car instead of petrol. I want a car for the next six years. Shortlisted are Honda City S and the Volkswagen Vento Highline diesel. I will be taking the car on lease and hence will have to pay only the ex-showroom price. The EMI and fuel costs of both these cars are likely to be the same. Any guidance will be truly appreciated.

Gaurav Acharya, via email

Even if you are considering going in for a lease plan, we think your kind of usage is still suitable for a petrol car. The Honda City, with its new set of features and reduced price tag, still makes for a terrific proposition. It's comfortable, spacious, great fun to drive and reasonably frugal as well. Over a six-year period, we think it should hold out better and suit your requirements rather well.

Smooth performer

I am planning to buy a small car and my daily usage is around 20 km. I have narrowed it down to two choices — the Toyota Etios Liva V and the Hyundai i20 Sportz. Which one of these is better in terms of performance, mileage, maintenance cost and looks?

Sahil Dham, via email

Between the two cars you have shortlisted, you can go for the Liva. Overall performance is good and it meets all your requirements well.

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