A comparison- Fiat Linea vs. SX4 vs Honda City

The competition in the mid size sedan segment in India is fast heating up. The Linea, Maruti SX4 and the Honda City are the top vehicles, leading the rivalry. How does one compare against the other? Let us try and find out.

The Fiat Linea

It seems as though every year, the Linea appears to become a better car, but is bogged down by the problems with respect to its dealership. In 2012, the Linea has got a class leading ground clearance of 185 mm, coupled with certain new features such as rain-sensing wipers and auto on/off headlamps. Regular features such as ABS and EBD are also part of the equipment.

Upon closing of doors, one gets a crunchy “thud” sound, which shows proof of the fact the vehicle is built like a tank. The innovative “Blue & Me” is a cutting edge innovation, which allows you to integrate your phone with the system, using Bluetooth technology. Probably the only grouch I can find here is that- it is unable to collect all the contacts. The car also is known to generate a mileage of 20.4 kmpl with the Linea Multijet Diesel and 14.6 kmpl with the 1.4 Petrol version.

As per dealership, Tata Motors, which was known to have been unable to market Fiat cars well due to its own portfolio, have decided to disintegrate the partnership soon, and the Fiat group is looking to get a different in-house partner to promote its cars.

 The “Muscular” SX4

The SX4 kick started its campaign by saying “Men are back.” Considering that they (Maruti) launched the car with the mindset that most men drive, this statement may soon need a rethinking.

The SX4 diesel sure makes a mark, when it comes to pickup. The system integrated audio player is quite user friendly. The diesel DDiS generates 104.7 ps and the petrol, 90 ps. As compared to the Honda City, it surely is underpowered, but more than makes it up in the 0-100 kmph timing. It is also most nimble to handle, with greater agility into corners.

The “Reliable” Honda City

                                                    

In the recent past, the Honda City has faced a lot of problems in sourcing parts, due to the Thailand floods. In fact, the Honda Brio (hatchback) was unable to sell any acars in January 2012. But now, the situation has improved.

At present, the Honda City generated a class leading power of 118 ps. What really is a driver’s delight, is the 5 speed AT with paddle shift, due to sheer performance. Interiors are also classy, as good as any.

The only potential problems that Honda faces today are:

a)    Lack of a diesel engine, especially due to spiralling petrol prices.  However, the City does generate a mileage of 16.8 kmpl, as per company stats.

b)    Availability of spare parts and high cost

The Verdict

 After looking at the three, all one can say is- It depends on what you want

1)    If you want feel and pickup, the SX4 is your car. Though it also might be so that you may have got bored with so many Marutis around you.

2)    If you take safety and long distance driving as your priorities, the Linea is your car.

3)    If you want power and design, the Honda City is truly your car.

Pictures taken courtesy:        www.shrushtitravels.in   

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