a cool kit

q: Can I fit a CNG kit in my 2005 model Maruti Zen? How much space will it take up as the Zen has very limited boot space? How much will engine performance and fuel efficiency be affected? Is fitting a CNG kit in a new Tata Indica Xeta or petrol Indigo CS a good option?

Yuvraj Kumbhar

a: A CNG tank is quite big and would take up all the space in your Zen’s boot and not leave any room for luggage. Besides, with CNG, the car’s performance would drop considerably. A car with a more powerful engine and a bigger boot makes more sense for CNG conversion, as a bigger and more powerful engine wouldn’t have as drastic a drop in power when running on CNG like the Zen. Also, a car with a boot would accommodate the CNG tank and also have some space left over for a couple of bags. We feel the petrol Indigo would be the best for a CNG kit.

service woes

q: I was about to buy the Fiat Linea but dropped the idea after people told me that there is no assurance of getting proper aftersales service from Fiat, given its previous record and the service which Palio owners are getting now. I am also apprehensive about the resale value of the car. I am very keen on buying the Linea but these factors have me in doubt. Should I still go ahead?

Sahil Bansal

a: These are very valid concerns and Fiat is doing its best to address the service issue, but for sure the aftersales won’t be as good as Maruti or Hyundai. If you like the Linea, we suggest you buy it. The car is quite solid and well built and shouldn’t give you too much trouble to warrant frequent visits to the workshop.

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