Maruti Suzuki Wagon R

The 1.2-litre K-Series engine in the Maruti Wagon R makes it feel noticeably peppier and relatively more effortless than the 1.0-litre petrol version. Also, being a four-cylinder unit, it is a bit smoother and more refined as well. 

Yes, the 1.0 will be a bit more efficient than the 1.2; however, if you like to drive and if it falls within your budget, quite simply go for the 1.2. The Tata Tiago has its strengths, like a good sound system, and better driving manners than a Wagon R; however, in terms of space, user-friendliness, smoothness and overall sales and support, the Maruti car is the one to go for.

Within your budget, you have two Maruti Suzuki options, the Wagon R 1.2 ZXi AMT and the Ignis Delta AT. 

The Wagon R is the more practical choice with a roomier cabin and a larger boot, while the Ignis feels more premium inside and looks more stylish. Both use 1.2-litre four-cylinder engines, but they are not identical. 

On paper, the Ignis makes 8 hp less than the Wagon R, yet in real use, there is little difference, and the Ignis' 1.2 litre K12 engine actually feels a bit more responsive at low speeds than the K12N in the Wagon R.

The new Maruti Wagon R will serve your needs best. It is more spacious, more grown up and will be comfier than your 2009 version. Its light controls, efficient engine and good visibility make it a very user-friendly car. 

Alternatively, you may consider a Tata Punch for its high seating, robustness, and ease of getting in and out. 

While the Maruti Swift ZXI AMT is a good choice, we would recommend the Maruti Suzuki Baleno AMT Alpha, which costs a similar amount. The Baleno's engine feels stronger and will be more suited to highway driving. Like the Swift, the Baleno is also easy and cheap to maintain and delivers good fuel economy. 

Also worth looking at is the Maruti Suzuki Wagon R 1.2 AMT. It has the same engine as the Baleno, but what makes it worth considering for your parents is its higher seating and elevated driving position. Getting in and out of the car is easy and the large glass area makes visibility very good. Also, the high seating also gives confidence when driving on the highway.   

 

If you are not very confident behind the wheel, we would recommend you spend some time with a reputable driving school, as you would want to eliminate small accidents and scrapes as far as possible. As for your query of a manual or automatic, a manual would be better in terms of mastering skills and having flexibility in terms of driving different cars. However, if you do not feel confident, its ok to stick with automatics as there are plenty of choices available today at all price points. In terms of a choice of car, we would suggest you look at the Tata Punch is easy to drive with its compact dimensions and offers a slightly higher seating point, offering you a better vantage point. Tata's service is inconsistent around the country, and if your local dealer isn't known for good service, you could consider the Maruti Wagon R.