For those hemmed in by budgetary constraints, but constantly nudged by big car yearnings, a used Optra, for around Rs 6 lakh, is just the ticket.
Launched in 2003, the Pininfarina-styled Optra was initially offered with only a 1.8-litre engine. GM later decided to introduce a 1.6-litre engine option and that made the car even better value for money without compromising much in terms of driveability and performance. At the time of its launch, the car came with a three-piece grille, but the late 2004 special NY edition set the trend for single-piece grilles.
While both the engines are trouble-free units, the timing belt needs to be changed around the 35,000-km mark — make sure you don’t miss that and ensure that the Optra you’re considering buying has got it covered.
The front and rear brakes both need attention around the 40,000km mark. Most owners replace the front brake disc at this point, but squealing brakes in the car you’re checking out translates to “change disc now.”
Some owners complain about the 14-inch wheels being too small and change over to bigger 15-inch rims. This, however, doesn’t impact the suspension or impede fuel-efficiency.

1.6-litre motor more fuel-efficient and offers better value than the 1.8.    Classy, well-built cabin consists of top-class materials and ages well.

Chevrolet offers a two-year service deal and it is transferable from owner to owner and will be honoured by its dealers as long as the servicing schedule has been adhered to. Under this scheme, Chevrolet will pay for regular servicing, including oil and coolant.
Optra spares are pricier than, say, a Honda City or a Hyundai Elantra. But the Optra, which has acquired a decent reputation for reliability, should not prove expensive to maintain. It depreciates more steadily unlike, say, the Elantra, which registers a much sharper dip in value. But let us also add that parts like the front brake disc (Rs 2,000) cost twice as much as a similar City spare. The door costs a whopping Rs 21,000, while the hood can set you back by Rs 16,000.

A new door costs Rs 21,000.

The Optra is a good-looker, but make it a point to inspect the used car during daytime. Lighter paint on some body panels may be hark back to a shunt. Stay away from such a car or bargain harder for it.
The Optra’s suspension — its strongest point — is fail-proof and can go on without a glitch till the 60,000-km mark. If a used Optra has accumulated a lot of miles on its odo, check for worn bushings and noises from the suspension.
The front shock absorber and the lower front suspension arm cost Rs 2,700 and Rs 4,000, respectively, so beware of suspension noises.
GM has put in a lot of effort to make the Optras fuel-efficient by changing the gear ratios and working on the engine management system. Optras usually deliver around 9 to 10kpl (post-September 2005 cars) in the city. And don’t worry about that slightly notchy gearbox, especially the shift to second — that’s another Optra trademark.
We’d recommend you opt for the Optra 1.6, which is not only less expensive and more fuel-efficient than the 1.8, but also gets pretty close to the latter in performance terms.
The base 1.6, with essential features like power windows, power steering and AC, offers good value for money.

Alloys look classy...... so does the sunroof.

Callout:
1 Pre-September 2005 cars may have higher fuel consumption.

2 Brakes will need attention at 40,000km.

3 Suspension holds up well for over 60,000km.

4 Bumpers and headlamps prohibitively expensive.