RIGHT REPLACEMENT

q: I plan to sell my 2008 model Swift Dzire VDi in exchange for the VW Vento Highline diesel. How much do you think I should get for it? Is the Vento diesel the right upgrade considering my annual mileage of 20,000km? How is VW’s aftersales service? Is it built for long-term usage?

Arun Kumar

a: The market price for a 2008 Swift Dzire should be in the range of Rs 5 lakh to Rs 5.5 lakh. The resale value is just an indication and depends to a great extent on the vehicle condition. If you have maintained it well, you could even get a better price.

The Vento Diesel is the ideal choice for you. It’s engine has lots of pulling power throughout its rev range, so it’s driveable in the city and has great overtaking ability for highway use too.

The Volkswagen network is still small but is being ramped up rapidly. The quality of service is good though spare parts-prices are on the expensive side.

The Vento’s German build quality should ensure that it easily lasts seven to eight years if you adhere to service schedules and drive it carefully.

THE BETTER DEAL

q: Between the Mitsubishi Outlander and Honda CR-V, which one is better? I’m looking for hassle-free ownership coupled with a refined engine and luxurious interiors for five adults.

Prasanth Fernando

a: The Outlander has a much better value and is more versatile, being a slightly better off-roader than the CR-V. Go for the Outlander but bear in mind that that the aftersales service is not the best.

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