Used 'premium' car for under 5 lacs?

DarKizashi · 24th October 2021, 11:36

Hello guys, I need to buy a new car and hence am turning to the experts at team bhp to guide me.

I have an 2017 XUV500, but I am soon going to be relocating abroad and hence selling it off. I need a car which will be used for the next one year, and then I'll move abroad.

My budget is about 5 lakhs, and I need a pre-owned car which doesn't feel like a downgrade from my XUV. Don't get me wrong, I know I can't expect a car like the XUV for 5 lakhs, but looking at the premium sedans of '12 - '14, they have all the features, if not more, my XUV has to offer. Basically I'd rather buy a '13 Kizashi than an '18 Swift.

Cars like the '12 Accord, '10 Kizashi, '12 Sonata can easily be found for under 5 lakhs and have a lot going for them, both in terms of space and features. These cars also have a powerful engine so that's a plus

As for some more factors to consider:
- Roads in Chandigarh are in decent shape so it won't be driven on bad roads too often, just the occasional potholes here and there.
- Reliability is a must, I don't want the car to spend most of it's time in a workshop.
- Not really interested in cars older than 2010
- No restrictions other than that, (automatic, manual, petrol, diesel, sedan, suv) I can live with anything.

So are there any under-the-radar cars which offer a lot of bang for the buck which I can consider?

This is my first post on team bhp, excuse the length or any mistakes.

akshay4587 · 24th October 2021, 11:57

In your Budget, I would recommend an Accord.
Good Power, fairly reliable and Comfortable.

TorqueMonster · 24th October 2021, 12:09

I would just like to give a warning that the Accord and Sonata were 20 Lakh cars when they were new, so expect service costs and spares accordingly. But thankfully your budget excludes complicated Germans, which have too many electronic issues. So, even despite my initial warning, I think you can buy a vehicle of this segment.

My personal choice would be the Accord. It is a tried and tested vehicle all over the world, with it being spacious and feature-rich, while also being extremely reliable. Moreover, the same 2.4 engine was there in the CR-V which means that when compared to niche offerings like the later gen Sonata's and the Kizashi, you will have a decent spare availability. If you feel adventurous, you could always buy a v6 Accord, but I would still recommend you to stick to the 2.4.

The Kizashi and Sonata are great cars but put them up against the Accord, and they falter massively. You could also see the Elantra(A downgrade to the Accord but reliable) if you want a slightly newer car. Stay away from the Superb, that is one car best bought new, and not used at 5 lakhs

DarKizashi · 24th October 2021, 12:37

Quote:

Originally Posted by TorqueMonster

My personal choice would be the Accord. If you feel adventurous, you could always buy a v6 Accord, but I would still recommend you to stick to the 2.4.

How is the automatic transmission in the accord (2.4 & V6)? Is the transmission reliable or should I stick to a manual?

Also, how is the clutch on the 13' Sonata 2.4 Gdi Manual? I've heard it needs replacing every 1 lac kms even if driven with care?

TorqueMonster · 24th October 2021, 13:44

Quote:

Originally Posted by DarKizashi

How is the automatic transmission in the accord (2.4 & V6)? Is the transmission reliable or should I stick to a manual?

Also, how is the clutch on the 13' Sonata 2.4 Gdi Manual? I've heard it needs replacing every 1 lac kms even if driven with care?

I have only sat in an Accord once, and have never driven it before. I am just telling you the Accord is a good choice as I have been in one before, and for the price would certainly recommend one.

I'm sure the experts of the forum can advise you better on the technical aspects regarding the manual or the automatic, and that of the engine choice.

IshaanIan · 24th October 2021, 15:00

If you have no particular wants or needs, apart from the car being an entry level luxury sedan, one can never go wrong with the Honda Accord. Kizashi is a solid reliable choice but even at its launch, only select service technicians were trained to handle the car thus nearly a decade after its discontinuation, maintaining it if anything were to go wrong, requires a certain intimacy with the local service center and knowledge about the car that I would not expect someone to care about if they just require it for 1 year. Accord has been around for a while and should be a piece of cake to find one, buy one and live with one for one year

akshay4587 · 24th October 2021, 17:48

Quote:

Originally Posted by DarKizashi

How is the automatic transmission in the accord (2.4 & V6)? Is the transmission reliable or should I stick to a manual?

Also, how is the clutch on the 13' Sonata 2.4 Gdi Manual? I've heard it needs replacing every 1 lac kms even if driven with care?

Accords around 2010 had 5 Speed Torque Converter, It is very reliable and does the job nicely, however it takes its time to downshift, when given the whip.
If you wish to enjoy K24 to its fullest, get the manual. 3.0 V6 only came with an Automatic, and with the current fuel prices, I am not sure, how comfortable would you be with 6kmpl.

Avoid the Sonata.

libranof1987 · 24th October 2021, 18:38

You have a fairly contemporary XUV500, why change that just for a year? You're moving abroad, and unless you're going to be in a high cost metro like London/NYC or Singapore, you'll be able to afford a new/newer premium car much easier than in India.

In 5 lakhs, you'll get really, really old examples and in the year that you intend to own it, you wouldn't want to spend your time fixing niggles. Sure, an Accord/Camry might be reliable but they're so barebones, even your XUV will feel premium. Just giving you a different perspective.

krishnakumar · 24th October 2021, 18:56

Just curious to know why you wouldn't retain the XUV5OO for a year more until it's time for you to move? You'll probably lose a lot less in terms of further depreciation. This option, to me, not just feels more financially prudent but also hassle free.

Assuming you have other reasons for selling it off right away and getting a temporary car for the interim, explore the options of subscriptions as well before you decide on buying a used car. The subscriptions may be a little higher but you can forget about maintenance and selling it later.

DarKizashi · 24th October 2021, 18:59

Quote:

Originally Posted by akshay4587

Accords around 2010 had 5 Speed Torque Converter, It is very reliable and does the job nicely, however it takes its time to downshift, when given the whip.
If you wish to enjoy K24 to its fullest, get the manual. 3.0 V6 only came with an Automatic, and with the current fuel prices, I am not sure, how comfortable would you be with 6kmpl.

Avoid the Sonata.

I'll be OK with 6kmpl, but is the auto in the V6 accord reliable? Also the V6 has cylinder deactivation right? Is that something to be scared of considering the age of these vehicles (and perhaps them not being serviced frequently)

Also why should I avoid the Sonata? The car looks pretty promising on paper and in photos albeit I'm yet to sit in one.

ninjatalli · 24th October 2021, 19:02

Quote:

Originally Posted by DarKizashi

I have an 2017 XUV500, but I am soon going to be relocating abroad and hence selling it off. I need a car which will be used for the next one year, and then I'll move abroad.

My budget is about 5 lakhs, and I need a pre-owned car which doesn't feel like a downgrade from my XUV.

Any particular reasons (say immediate need of funds) to sell the XUV? If that isn't the case, then my suggestion would be to continue with the XUV. You know the vehicle condition in and out, it'll be only the 5th year of ownership so no major expenses. Any preowned option you consider would have the risk of higher maintenance than your current ride for sure. And also the additional headache of selling two cars and figuring out a reliable old vehicle to purchase.

DarKizashi · 24th October 2021, 19:12

Quote:

Originally Posted by krishnakumar

Just curious to know why you wouldn't retain the XUV5OO for a year more until it's time for you to move?

Quote:

Originally Posted by libranof1987

You have a fairly contemporary XUV500, why change that just for a year?

Quote:

Originally Posted by ninjatalli

Any particular reasons (say immediate need of funds) to sell the XUV? If that isn't the case, then my suggestion would be to continue with the XUV.

Truth be told, I have already sold my XUV for a great price (and paid off the loan) before the XUV700 was launched to avoid further depreciation. I had the option to keep it, but it needed new tyres, battery, and it also developed a turbo leak (was told to new owner). All things considered I took a decision and now onwards to another car !

akshay4587 · 24th October 2021, 20:23

Quote:

Originally Posted by DarKizashi

I'll be OK with 6kmpl, but is the auto in the V6 accord reliable? Also the V6 has cylinder deactivation right? Is that something to be scared of considering the age of these vehicles (and perhaps them not being serviced frequently)

Also why should I avoid the Sonata? The car looks pretty promising on paper and in photos albeit I'm yet to sit in one.

Yes AT is Torque Converter and very reliable.
I am not sure as to from which generation Cylinder Deactivation Technology was introduced.

2.4 Manual would be my pick if you want to get a Fun to drive car, or even a Later year Civic would be nice.

Sonata's are very uninspiring to drive, which is why I suggested against it.

AJ56 · 24th October 2021, 22:42

2010 2.4L Accord owner here, in 65k kms the only issue I’ve had (as have many others) is a leaking hydraulic steering pump, fixed easily by my trusted mechanic. It’s the most reliable car you can buy for 5L, 2011 and up got the facelift with cruise control, sunroof and ESP being added to the non V6 variants, so if going for 2.4L, spring for post 2011 models. Interior quality is much better than Camry’s from the same years. Also has a lot of space at the rear. My only complaint is a lack of steering mounted audio controls, but that’s about it. Make sure you get the car checked thoroughly at a Honda dealership before buying. Pay special attention to the hydraulic steering rack and pump seals, as it’s a weak point. Cheers.

kurmist · 25th October 2021, 11:47

I am on my third Honda Accord right now. Earlier owned the 2003 MY 2.4 AT, then the 2006 MY 3.0 V6 AT and currently own the 2012 3.5 V6 AT. All of them have been pre-owned beauties.

If the choice is between the Sonata, Civic, Superb or Accord, I would always go for the Accord. Rock solid reliability, oodles of space, amazingly comfortable seats, essential safety gear ( 6 airbags, TCS etc in my current V6) and paddle shifts (not that necessary, in my opinion). The engine is a silky smooth unit with adequate power (2.4) while the 3.5 V6 is a beast with a Jekyll & Hyde character (thanks to the cylinder deactivation tech which still works fine on my 10 year old car) . If you stick to the regular maintenance schedule of every 6 months, these are fairy reliable cars too and you can drive with complete peace of mind.

Some caveats though, to keep in mind:

1) Accords are no longer sold in India, however due to their global popularity, have not faced any parts issue till date

2) Be prepared for staggering fuel bills. My 3.5 V6 gives an average of 5-6 kmpl with sedate city driving. With petrol prices being where they are,

. Good news is the car doesn't need high octane. Regular gas is fine

3) As someone has mentioned earlier, the only gripe is the hydraulic steering system which usually starts leaking at the pump. Also ancillary rubber pipes tend to harden and crack, leading to leakages. The good news is that this is a relatively easy fix done by any competent mechanic

4) Get a good independent garage to service / repair your car. Dealer services can be very expensive

5) Tends to have a soft, floaty suspension (comfort oriented) which may not inspire confidence at higher speeds. After-market dampers etc easily available to sort this out

Good condition, late model (2011 - 2013) cars are available for Rs. 5 - 7 lakhs for Mumbai registered cars. V6 prices tend to fluctuate basis condition (sometimes these are badly used / abused). Check Carwale for prices.

Get the car vetted by a trusted mechanic before you commit. Even if there is some work to be done on the prospective car dont get put off. Most regular repairs are not that hard on the wallet.

Good luck on your search and wish you many happy miles with this beauty!

24th October 2021, 11:36	#1
DarKizashi Newbie Join Date: Jun 2021 Location: Chandigarh Posts: 13 Thanked: 30 Times	Used 'premium' car for under 5 lacs? Hello guys, I need to buy a new car and hence am turning to the experts at team bhp to guide me. I have an 2017 XUV500, but I am soon going to be relocating abroad and hence selling it off. I need a car which will be used for the next one year, and then I'll move abroad. My budget is about 5 lakhs, and I need a pre-owned car which doesn't feel like a downgrade from my XUV. Don't get me wrong, I know I can't expect a car like the XUV for 5 lakhs, but looking at the premium sedans of '12 - '14, they have all the features, if not more, my XUV has to offer. Basically I'd rather buy a '13 Kizashi than an '18 Swift. Cars like the '12 Accord, '10 Kizashi, '12 Sonata can easily be found for under 5 lakhs and have a lot going for them, both in terms of space and features. These cars also have a powerful engine so that's a plus As for some more factors to consider: - Roads in Chandigarh are in decent shape so it won't be driven on bad roads too often, just the occasional potholes here and there. - Reliability is a must, I don't want the car to spend most of it's time in a workshop. - Not really interested in cars older than 2010 - No restrictions other than that, (automatic, manual, petrol, diesel, sedan, suv) I can live with anything. So are there any under-the-radar cars which offer a lot of bang for the buck which I can consider? This is my first post on team bhp, excuse the length or any mistakes. Last edited by Aditya : 26th October 2021 at 19:47. Reason: Punctuation, typo
	(18) Thanks

24th October 2021, 11:57	#2
akshay4587 Senior - BHPian Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: Chandigarh/Mohali/Ambala Cantt Posts: 4,157 Thanked: 4,722 Times View My Garage	Re: Used 'premium' car for under 5 lacs? In your Budget, I would recommend an Accord. Good Power, fairly reliable and Comfortable.
	(11) Thanks

24th October 2021, 12:09	#3
TorqueMonster BHPian Join Date: Oct 2020 Location: Trivandrum Posts: 182 Thanked: 834 Times	Re: Used 'premium' car for under 5 lacs? I would just like to give a warning that the Accord and Sonata were 20 Lakh cars when they were new, so expect service costs and spares accordingly. But thankfully your budget excludes complicated Germans, which have too many electronic issues. So, even despite my initial warning, I think you can buy a vehicle of this segment. My personal choice would be the Accord. It is a tried and tested vehicle all over the world, with it being spacious and feature-rich, while also being extremely reliable. Moreover, the same 2.4 engine was there in the CR-V which means that when compared to niche offerings like the later gen Sonata's and the Kizashi, you will have a decent spare availability. If you feel adventurous, you could always buy a v6 Accord, but I would still recommend you to stick to the 2.4. The Kizashi and Sonata are great cars but put them up against the Accord, and they falter massively. You could also see the Elantra(A downgrade to the Accord but reliable) if you want a slightly newer car. Stay away from the Superb, that is one car best bought new, and not used at 5 lakhs
	(14) Thanks

24th October 2021, 15:00	#6
IshaanIan Senior - BHPian Join Date: Aug 2012 Location: Hyd Posts: 3,749 Thanked: 7,719 Times View My Garage Infractions: 0/1 (7)	Re: Used 'premium' car for under 5 lacs? If you have no particular wants or needs, apart from the car being an entry level luxury sedan, one can never go wrong with the Honda Accord. Kizashi is a solid reliable choice but even at its launch, only select service technicians were trained to handle the car thus nearly a decade after its discontinuation, maintaining it if anything were to go wrong, requires a certain intimacy with the local service center and knowledge about the car that I would not expect someone to care about if they just require it for 1 year. Accord has been around for a while and should be a piece of cake to find one, buy one and live with one for one year
	(3) Thanks

24th October 2021, 18:38	#8
libranof1987 Team-BHP Support Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: All over! Posts: 8,173 Thanked: 20,586 Times	Re: Used 'premium' car for under 5 lacs? You have a fairly contemporary XUV500, why change that just for a year? You're moving abroad, and unless you're going to be in a high cost metro like London/NYC or Singapore, you'll be able to afford a new/newer premium car much easier than in India. In 5 lakhs, you'll get really, really old examples and in the year that you intend to own it, you wouldn't want to spend your time fixing niggles. Sure, an Accord/Camry might be reliable but they're so barebones, even your XUV will feel premium. Just giving you a different perspective.
	(34) Thanks

24th October 2021, 18:56	#9
krishnakumar BHPian Join Date: Oct 2019 Location: KL01 - KA01 Posts: 691 Thanked: 3,244 Times View My Garage	Re: Used 'premium' car for under 5 lacs? Just curious to know why you wouldn't retain the XUV5OO for a year more until it's time for you to move? You'll probably lose a lot less in terms of further depreciation. This option, to me, not just feels more financially prudent but also hassle free. Assuming you have other reasons for selling it off right away and getting a temporary car for the interim, explore the options of subscriptions as well before you decide on buying a used car. The subscriptions may be a little higher but you can forget about maintenance and selling it later.
	(7) Thanks

24th October 2021, 22:42	#14
AJ56 BHPian Join Date: Jul 2021 Location: Gurgaon Posts: 827 Thanked: 3,204 Times	Re: Used 'premium' car for under 5 lacs? 2010 2.4L Accord owner here, in 65k kms the only issue I’ve had (as have many others) is a leaking hydraulic steering pump, fixed easily by my trusted mechanic. It’s the most reliable car you can buy for 5L, 2011 and up got the facelift with cruise control, sunroof and ESP being added to the non V6 variants, so if going for 2.4L, spring for post 2011 models. Interior quality is much better than Camry’s from the same years. Also has a lot of space at the rear. My only complaint is a lack of steering mounted audio controls, but that’s about it. Make sure you get the car checked thoroughly at a Honda dealership before buying. Pay special attention to the hydraulic steering rack and pump seals, as it’s a weak point. Cheers. Last edited by AJ56 : 24th October 2021 at 23:03.
	(16) Thanks

25th October 2021, 11:47	#15
kurmist BHPian Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Mumbai Posts: 95 Thanked: 77 Times	Re: Used 'premium' car for under 5 lacs? I am on my third Honda Accord right now. Earlier owned the 2003 MY 2.4 AT, then the 2006 MY 3.0 V6 AT and currently own the 2012 3.5 V6 AT. All of them have been pre-owned beauties. If the choice is between the Sonata, Civic, Superb or Accord, I would always go for the Accord. Rock solid reliability, oodles of space, amazingly comfortable seats, essential safety gear ( 6 airbags, TCS etc in my current V6) and paddle shifts (not that necessary, in my opinion). The engine is a silky smooth unit with adequate power (2.4) while the 3.5 V6 is a beast with a Jekyll & Hyde character (thanks to the cylinder deactivation tech which still works fine on my 10 year old car) . If you stick to the regular maintenance schedule of every 6 months, these are fairy reliable cars too and you can drive with complete peace of mind. Some caveats though, to keep in mind: 1) Accords are no longer sold in India, however due to their global popularity, have not faced any parts issue till date 2) Be prepared for staggering fuel bills. My 3.5 V6 gives an average of 5-6 kmpl with sedate city driving. With petrol prices being where they are, . Good news is the car doesn't need high octane. Regular gas is fine 3) As someone has mentioned earlier, the only gripe is the hydraulic steering system which usually starts leaking at the pump. Also ancillary rubber pipes tend to harden and crack, leading to leakages. The good news is that this is a relatively easy fix done by any competent mechanic 4) Get a good independent garage to service / repair your car. Dealer services can be very expensive 5) Tends to have a soft, floaty suspension (comfort oriented) which may not inspire confidence at higher speeds. After-market dampers etc easily available to sort this out Good condition, late model (2011 - 2013) cars are available for Rs. 5 - 7 lakhs for Mumbai registered cars. V6 prices tend to fluctuate basis condition (sometimes these are badly used / abused). Check Carwale for prices. Get the car vetted by a trusted mechanic before you commit. Even if there is some work to be done on the prospective car dont get put off. Most regular repairs are not that hard on the wallet. Good luck on your search and wish you many happy miles with this beauty!
	(15) Thanks