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WHICH CAR?

I presently own a Maruti 800 and will be buying a three-box car around October this year. I drive about 35 km everyday. I love to go on long drives (out of town) two to three times a year. My budget is Rs 4.50 to 5.25 lakh.

I am looking at a well-built car with good looks and reliability, comfort, good legroom in the front and rear and a smooth and silent drive. No diesels please.

How would you compare the Ford Ikon Flair 1.3 with the Opel Corsa 1.4? Would the new Hyundai Getz be worth considering against the Ikon or the Corsa? I understand it's a hatchback. Or should I also look at other options too? I would be very grateful for your advice.

Arun Bhalla, via email

We think you should consider the Getz "“ it's the correct car for the correct price. And it has got all the virtues you are looking for in your next car too. If you're not very particular about buying a three-box car, then the Getz is just fine.

Arun Bhalla, via email

  Third alternative   At present, I don't drive any car. I have had a liking for the Ford Ikon for a long time, but recently, the Tata Indigo has also been attracting me.   Honestly, I know nothing about these two cars. Can you advise me on buying either one of these cars? Or is there a better alternative in terms of looks, performance, life, mileage and price, in that order?

Mootakoduru Sreenivas, via email

If you are looking for a car that will give you performance, life (as in reliability) mileage and price, the better deal than either the Ikon or the Indigo is the Maruti Esteem.   Maybe it doesn't look as contemporary as these two, but the recent facelift helps a bit. The Esteem is tried and trusted, offers sterling performance and reliability, yet is fuel efficient. Take a serious look at it instead.

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