I am not a automobile expert. what I am sharing here is only experience happened in last 1 year with my first self earned CAR. I bought Ford figo Zxi diesel model on 10th May 2012 after doing little research on available choice. It took me more than 6- 8 months to finalize this choice.
My preference was for a hatchback variant with good sitting arrangement and an investment which is for coming 5 years. I have selected 4 cars as my final choice.
Maruti ritz
VW polo
ford figo
Chav Beat
After doing evaluation and test ride. zero on Figo and Beat. I will say, beat is really good value for money with irresistible offer of cash less maintenance for complete 3 years. Best looks, never before tall boy. Perfect car for a college guy. steering control was excellent. fuel efficient, everything is great but it accommodate only 4 people. Fifth one is always unwanted pain.
Figo win the race as l become bias on the executive professional look. Large inner space. Good boot space. Decent fuel efficiency. Today I have completed 1 year and almost 1 month. Few observation:
No doubt I enjoyed each drive on my car. It’s a good bargain I had for this car as this car never let me down in last complete year.
Fuel efficiency is good I get with AC in city at an average 16-18 kmp/l and on highway comfortable 22-24 kmpl.
5 people at average 70 kgs sit comfortably for long drive of 150 to 200 kms.
No sharking no jerk at speed of 110 – 125 kms speed. Maruti Ritz start shaking.
I changed cars Headlamps and horn along with heat preventing film on wind shield. Cost me 25k altogether.
Cons :
It hurt me really bad when car hit the Bangalore road humps. Believe me Bangalore got only humps on road, in 2 kms distance you find atleast 10 of them. First 2 month my speed never exceed 30- 40 kms. Until I got a mechanic who lifted my car chassis by 2 inch. No doubt he charge me good figure but I had peace of mind and good average then after.
I am not happy with car stereo when I compare with other car with same range.
Interior is again average as same look for basic model and top end model. Over all in one year I drown only 9k which include daily office to home and 4-5 long trip to various picnic spot around bangalore. There is lot to explore as handling this beauty is a pleasure. Car is very handy and overall value for money. Regards