Mumbai: In the Indian car market, there are lots of cars that despite being technically brilliant, just haven't found favour with the Indian car buying public. The Maruti Baleno is an excellent example of this. So, here's a list of cars that has played underdog for too long... and who knows, you might chose to do a rethink and buy one of them.
1. Skoda Superb: If snob value ranks high on your list, the Skoda Superb may not suit your taste. Its subdued design is unmistakeably Skoda and it needs a back check to see that it's actually the Superb and not the Octavia. But once inside, there will be absolutely no confusion. It's remarkably refined and has enough space to rival the Mercedes S class. Even though, it comes with the price tag that is lower than the C class. There are two engine options to chose from - a petrol one and a diesel one - though both come in the V6 format.
While the 1.28 litre 190 bhp petrol option isn't a slouch, the 2.5 litre 163 bhp diesel engine has the samrt money running on it - that's because of its impressive driveability and efficiency. Skoda's flagship sedan is the one to pick, if you want space, comfort at a super attractive price.
2. Hyundai Sonata Embera: This is a car that the tycoon sitting in the backseat would appreciate. It has cabin space which is not in short supply. For a quick trips to the factory, there is a 2.4 litre petrol engine and 2 litre diesel that made its debut this year. It was a bit painstaking to drive the diesel and it required a six-speed box to keep it buzzing. But now that a four-speed H-matic autobox is on offer, it's car you might want to take out for a drive.
But the Honda Accord has turned the tables on the Embera. The Accord's staggering.presence leaves you unimpressed with the Embera's masculine posturing. However, the diesel option and the lower price tag does make you take notice of it.
3. Fiat Palio: This car extracts its hide from driving enthusiasts and its owners puff up their chest in pride. When launched the Palio had two very driveable powerplants. But it was the 1.6 litre GTX which was India's first hot hatch and also one which had many admirers. With the arrival of the Palio Stile, the fairly energetic 1.2 litre engine has been replaced by the more frugal 1.1 litre engine. The 1.6 litre engine is still up for grabs at a price of Rs 3.4 lakhs ex-showroom Mumbai, you could buy this Italian stallion in a snap.
4. Hyundai Getz: It may not be the best example to start off with, especially since it has been selling in the Indian market since 2004 and has clocked respectable enough numbers. But when compared to the Swift, the Getz's achievements feel a little mediocre. But I love this car for its spacious interiors, composed aura and a general well built feel.
More recently, the Getz got a facelift and a cheaper 1.1 litre engine option. The 1.3 is still the better car but you still save yourself atleast Rs 20,000, if you go in for the smaller engine.
So, which of these underdogs will find a home in your garage?
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