Accent Tornado

For those who need more power in their cars should go for the Tornado. The 1.6-litre, 16-valve engine with a mighty 103bhp thrust is the latest power-machine to hit Indian roads in 2002.

All this power comes with all the frills as well. The Tornado has a better appeal than its less sophisticated elder sibling — the Accent. The Tornado has a large boot spoiler, alloys with fatter tyres and gold badging, giving it the looks of a classy car.

The interiors of the car give the feel of a deluxe cabin of cruise liner. Starting from the classy seat upholstery, the leather wrapped steering wheel, leather and chrome gear knob, to the exclusive Kenwood tape deck make it a seductive possession. Competitors like the City, the Lancer and the Baleno offer no match to the interior comforts of the Tornado.

The downside is that it is somewhat of a guzzler and averages 8.2 kpl in city driving and 12.7 kpl on the highway. The 185/60 R14 Bridgestone tyres give it a firmer grip on the road. A stiffer suspension also provides for improved handling.

Priced at Rs.8.15 lakh, slotted just above the Ikon Sxi and well below the Honda City 1.5, the Tornado offers good value for money. It faces strong competition from the Ford Ikon.