Ford's brilliant
Mondeo is the current pick of the D-segment in India. Germanic looks and
solid build quality distinguish it from the pack. Dynamically too, it holds
an edge with ride and handling that others can't hold a candle to. Both
petrol and diesel engines deliver stunning performance but the diesel lacks
refinement.
Easily the
best known car in this segment, the 2.3-litre petrol Accord is a big, capable
and refined performer that comes with an awesome reputation of bullet-proof
reliability. Styling however is conservative and looks
like a grown-up City. 4-speed automatic option is a plus and is not available
with its immediate rivals.
Stunning looks,
great value and refinement are its strengths. Now a well known and respected
brand in India, the Sonata is surprisingly moving up in snob value. It suffers
from a performance deficit and hence is not much fun to drive.
A 2.7-litre V6 with automatic transmission as standard is expected this
Diwali.
A best-seller
in the US market, Toyota have yet to launch the Camry in India which is
expected by the year end. Interior comfort and space are expected to be
strong points along with Toyota's legendary reliability and hassle-free
ownership. Power comes from 2.4-litre 157bhp engine. Auto transmission an
option.
The all-new
Vectra, which went on sale in Europe this May, is expected in India by September.
Handsome styling, rich interiors will go down well with luxury car buyers.
Power comes from 2-litre petrol and hi-tech 2.2-litre turbo-diesel. The
new Vectra is expected to set a new benchmark for refinement in this class.
Merc's C is
a technological tour de force, packed with all sorts of hi-tech equipment
including airbags. 2.0-litre petrol engine gives pedestrian performance
but is a substantially cheaper option. 2.2-litre turbo-diesel is a very
refined unit with adequate power. Compared to cheaper rivals, C-class is
tight on space.
Priced at
over Rs 30 lakh, Merc's E is in a class of its own and substantially larger
than the other cars here. The only car that can match it for interior space
is the Superb. Powerful 2.6-litre V6 the smoothest engine around and 2.2-litre
common rail turbo-diesel simply brilliant. All new
E-class expected by year-end.