Before going in for my first small/family car, I read reviews of almost all cars available within my budget of Rs. 3.5 Lacs and not a penny more. I shortlisted only two cars to chose from, the new SANTRO XING XK eRLX in its basic avatar and the new ALTO LXi. I found that the new ALTO was not just as good, but better in some aspects. The SANTRO doesn’t even offer a power steering in its XK version, but the ALTO LXi does.
Also, the fuel efficiency of the ALTO was something that attracted me more than anything else. It’s already given me 11.5 Km/Ltr in the city, with AC and above 15 Km/Ltr on the highway. Albeit, the pickup/acceleration does suffer to a certain extent with the AC on, but that’s a minor thing keeping in mind that the engine is not as powerful as the SANTRO. It’s the engine of the SANTRO that’s where it has a winning edge. However, I was more than happy in disregarding this aspect.
The interiors of the new ALTO have been really spruced up, even the exterior is significantly better than the older model. Nice two tone fabric for the seats, ample space for a family of four. Not too generous a boot, but at this budget and pricing, one doesn’t have the right to complain.
I’d also considered the PALIO DIESEL from FIAT, but it was way beyond my budget. Of course, when it comes to sturdiness and a robust build, nothing can beat a FIAT.
The AC too, is a fantastic performer, even on the hottest of days. Overall, I doubt if there is a better car on the Indian Market, in this segment. I’d suggest anyone who is considering this car, to go for it, with their eyes closed. Nothing, not even the SANTRO in its basic avatar can beat this one.