I’m planning to buy a sedan, and am looking at the Skoda Octavia, Toyota Corolla Altis and Chevy Cruze. My commute is about 1000km per month in the city. Which would be the best car among these? I’m worried about whether the Octavia would be a good choice in terms of aftersales cost and resale. Also, is the Cruze going to be replaced any time soon?

 

Brijesh Anand,New Delhi

 

AAA This decision is really one that’s between the heart and the head. The Octavia is much nicer to drive than the Corolla, thanks to its brilliant engine which is powerful, smooth and economical if driven gently. The ride and handling of the Octavia is better too and the interiors feel more premium. All told, the Octavia is the better car than the Corolla. But in terms of aftersales service, we doubt it will be as painfree as the Toyota. Though the new Corolla is a bit underwhelming compared to the Octavia, it is a safer choice. As for the Cruze, it recently got a mild facelift and is likely to continue for a year or so. If left to us, we would go with our heart and pick the Octavia, purely because it is so much more enjoyable to drive.