Sedan decision

I am planning to sell my Ford Ikon 1.3 and buy a diesel sedan. I also own a 2010 Hyundai Accent petrol. I have shortlisted the Chevrolet Optra Magnum, Skoda Rapid, Volkswagen Vento diesel and Maruti Suzuki SX4. My city driving is very less and I intend to use the car for outstation travelling and holidays. My budget is Rs 9 lakh. Please suggest a suitable car.

Rajat Sanan, via email

You can look at either the Vento or the Rapid diesels — they are excellent cars for cruising. They are fuel efficient, well built and offer good quality as well. As you will be using the car on the highway, we suggest you get yourself the version that comes with all the safety features as standard. Your budget is good enough to accommodate that version.

Newbie wheels

I am learning how to drive now and would like to purchase a car. Could you please suggest a good car within a budget of Rs 3 to 4 lakh? My son likes the Hyundai Eon very much. Should I go for it?

Guna Shetty, via email

Yes, the Eon is a good contemporary car and is a great first car. Though we would suggest you look at the Chevrolet Beat as well, the Eon will be a more hassle-free experience.

Superb choice

I own a 2006 Honda Accord, which has done 90,000 km and I’ve had to replace a few parts which cost quite a lot of money. I would like to replace this car with something that is equivalent to the Accord in rear seat leg room and that business class feeling. I am 65 years old and my car is chauffeur-driven most of the time. My daily commute averages 20 km, which means fuel efficiency is not an issue, but comfort, due to my age, is. I have a budget of Rs 15-20 lakh.

KKB, via email

Easily, the car to go for is the Skoda Superb. It offers the best rear seat space and comfort in the business, and indeed beats several other cars in categories above it. That’s the car for you.

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