Apr 05, 2004 12:42 AM
5788 Views
(Updated Apr 05, 2004 12:42 AM)
I drove around in an Accent GLS earlier, and I choose a black Ikon SXi next. Immediately, I plunged into regret. I should've done this a long time ago!
The Ikon 1.6 is a powerhouse. Extremely brisk acceleration, (the only other car in its price range which can keep up would be an old Honda City 1.5), a beautifully low torque -engine (I shift to fifth gear at 35 kmph. ..one can shift from 1st to 3rd to 5th gear with absolutely no lag in accleration) and fantastic handling (the way one can shift lanes or throw it around corners at ridiculously high speeds is mind boggling!) make it a perfect drivers car.The rear seating room is good, and getting in and out of the car is easy because the SXi had 14 inch alloy wheels (which, incidentally, are borrowed from the Mondeo and look gorgeous).
The suspension copes well with potholes, but the ride quality is not as well carpeted as the Indigo or the Siena. The interiors too given an impression of reduced space, and the smaller width of the car is apparent the moment you get in. The switches feel a little cheap, and the the position of the power window buttons is extremely inconvenient. It takes a while getting used to the left handed turn indicator stalk. The mileage varies according to driving style. The sound insulation is not good too, with the roar of the tyres constantly intruding into the cabin. With the A/C on at all times (essential in cities these days with the kind of pollution we see), sedate driving gives me around 12-13.5 kmpl and some spirited driving gives me around 8 - 10.5 kmpl.
The point is, though, that this is a car to relive those glorious, carefree motorcyle days. One feels extremely alive, connected to the road, powerful and confident while driving the car. If you are the kind who doesn't prefer driving, go in for something else - it would be an insult to the Ikon's superb capabilties otherwise!
