Hi, Botchi!
I'm planning to get a compact sport-utility vehicle, which is pretty but at the same time offers value for your money. I've looked at all brands (believe me, I've memorized all the cars that they are offering) and I've narrowed it down to the Hyundai Tucson and Toyota Innova. I know it's not right to compare them since they're not of the same type but the price of the 4x2 gasoline Tucson is very near to that of the Innova's diesel SR variant. I also considered the Toyota Corolla Altis because I feel that we're only less than five so no need for a big car. But I currently drive a 2006 Honda Civic and I told myself that our next car should be something higher than a regular sedan.
I'm confused on which one is a better buy considering its value for money. It's hard-earned money so I want the vehicle to be really worth it. I hope you understand. We're not the type who can afford to keep on changing cars. I'd also like to know about after-sales service and resale value of the brands I'm looking at.
I'm not really sold on the looks of the Innova because I think it's a "mom mobile" or more of a family car which accommodates a lot of people. The Tucson, on the other hand, is really pretty from the outside.
The only ones who will be riding the car are my parents who are both senior citizens already. It's going to be the family car.
I also want something which is easy to maintain because I don't have a brother who "makes asikaso" car problems. I don't really know how to handle car problems and it would be a hassle to always go to the casa or any car shop for that matter.
Another consideration is fuel efficiency since gas is expensive nowadays.
If you have other suggestions, please feel free to write it so I can also consider other available options. I hope you can give me your expert advice on the matter. I'm really so confused.
Pat
Hi, Pat!
Thank you for sending us an email. We're always glad to help female motorists! In fact, your email made my day! But first, I'm so sorry for the late reply. I was out of action for a few weeks because of a back problem.
Anyway, if you're looking at that price range of cars, have you considered the Honda CR-V, too? Women love the Honda CR-V and it's only natural to recommend one to a female driver. It is, just like the Tucson, a very accomplished SUV that drives smoothly and comfortably, is loaded with options and has solid resale value.
Buying a new car ensures that you won't have problems with it for the next three years at the very least, and probably even longer if you follow the preventive maintenance servicing (so when someone mentions PMS, don't throw a fit immediately!) schedule of every 10,000 kilometers or six months, whichever comes first.
I also love the Hyundai Tucson, and it also offers great value for money. But the two H brands still don't really stand toe-to-toe. Honda offers better resale value but Hyundai is catching up fast.
The inside of the Tucson looks and feels really modern. I love the iPOD/MP3-aux/USB connectivity. The outside, as we both know, makes you think it were a European made vehicle, thanks to the stylish flair and brave lines. Great SUV.
The Innova though will be the roughest, harshest vehicle in this group since it sits on a sturdier but far less sophisticated truck-based platform, unlike the Tucson and CR-V which sit on a hybrid, modern car-based platform but modified extensively to allow for added ground clearance.
So there you have it, Pat. Maybe if you can extend your budget, or tell me more about what you like and dislike in your next car, I can recommend more cars to you. Take care, God bless and keep it safe out there!
Botchi Santos
Consumer editor
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