Jun 13, 2010 09:59 PM
7236 Views
I have always been in love with bikes but with mercury soaring as high as 48 degrees in Delhi, a car becomes a mandate. So the search started. I didn’t want to spend more than 4.5 lacs on the car because I have plans to buy a superbike in next 5 years (planning-you seeJ ). I shortlisted several cars within my budget like Hyundai’s i10, santro, Cheverlot Spark, Beat, Maruti Ritz, A-star and Alto(CNG).
Beat and Spark were ruled out because of low resale value even though the Chevrolet was offering a lot of freebies. The Santro was in market for long and was running on the same age old technology. The i10 was good option with good resale and new technology. I took the test drive of i10 and I must say it was most refined of all the small cars (except Fabia-petrol). I somehow didn’t like the beige interiors of the i10. I think they suit more on Mercs, BMWs or Accords. Also it was the same shape, we have seen on cars for last 10 years almost. So i10 was out of picture.
Moved to Maruti.I never liked the odd rear shape of a Ritz but I must say the space Ritz offered was unmatchable. Took the test drive. Faced some problem with the bumper visibility(even though I am 6'1"). Test drove the A-star then. I liked the look of an A-Star from front. The profile was good as well but the rear was a bit shabby. The engine was refined but still could feel a bit of vibration on the steering. Finally made the choice and an A-star was booked. My basic purpose of commutation in summers and not so good weather was fulfilled.
I now have completed 4000 kms in a month and below mentioned are my finding:
Looks: Mine is a white vehicle . It’s definitely a different design for Indian roads . The car is a head-turner specially after fitting the alloy wheels and wide Bridgestone radials. An i10 and a Santro will never get those looks.
Fuel Efficiency : The car after the first service, gives me an average of 16-17 in city with 90% AC on and 17kmph on highways (speed over 100 at more than 90% of time-Delhi-Jaipur & Jaipur-Agra highways). I am sure It would give a better average to a more sensible driver. And I forgot to mention the AC-it is effective in Delhi summers (That sums it all I believe ).
Stability : The car is very stable at speeds as high as 130 kmph and even with sudden braking doesn’t lose the grip. It skids but it skids like a straight rocket not like the Santros, Wagon Rs and Dezires(topsy-turvy) . More like a Swift I must say. The braking is good and with Optional ABS, no situation is dangerous.
Value for Money : Maruti has always delivered value for money cars but this one actually exceeds the expectation. With a price of 3.72(LXi) I got a car that runs well, burns lesser fuel, rated as second most eco friendly car in the world and looks good too. A-star is a steal.
Caution : The car is only good when most of the times you travel alone or with a partner. Not good for joint families. And not good if you need to carry lot of luggage with four people for long distance ( I use my dad’s car for that purpose J ).
Otherwise for A-star "All is well". Special mention of Regent Automobiles who are providing excellent after sales J
Regards,
Abhishek
