Deluxe Comfort
Space and an airy cabin are the first things you notice about the Corolla Altis when you’re inside. It looks and feels like a much larger car and you wonder how they managed to pack in so much and use every bit of available space so well. The dual-tone interior with the wide, flat dashboard makes it look like there’s a lot on offer while whatever there is, is simple to operate. The blue back-lit dials and the centre touchscreen make things easier, but the latter can be rather distracting on the move. The safety features are quite good. The fact that it has two airbags is good, but I wish it would also include curtain airbags for rear occupants. The buzzer reminding you to buckle up gains frequency with time and speed, a nice touch; something few other cars feature.
The seats too are extremely comfortable and offer multiple adjustment possibilities, unlike the other two cars. It’s easy to find a comfortable driving position. The rear seats are also very comfortable and offer generous room. It’s a pleasant place to be, that’s for sure. In fact, it even makes sense to have a chauffeur drive you around in any of these cars, if you so wish.
The Elantra is the most compact of the lot and while it’s a snug fit with controls falling in hand, there are things which could be better. The centre console looks even more futuristic than the exterior and there is a good bit of kit which lets you connect all sorts of devices to enjoy entertainment or communication features. Room at the rear could be much better, and it is a tight fit, especially if you’re tall. The sloping roof-line doesn’t help things either.
The Octavia presents a strong case for itself even in the interior department. The quality of material and plastics feels extremely solid and well-put-together. The panel gaps and levels of fit-and-finish are just as good as any good European car, and the dual-tone trim and upholstery make for an appreciably airy cabin. The seats are very supportive and overall ergonomics are very good as well. The controls for the multimedia are many but simple and easy to use. Occupant room and protection are very good and while I, feeling rather snug, would have liked more room, there isn’t anything to complain about. The highest trim level for the manual version, however, is the Ambition we have here.
Verdict
For the occupant comfort and safety on offer, the Corolla Altis clearly has an edge over its competition.
