An amazing car

Exterior

 The esteem may be dated but it is still very propotionate especially with the spoiler and it make the compact sedans of today look like boxes with headlights. The desigh that was once striking is now common and not given a second glance. But although not striking, eye-widening or jaw dropping, it is pretty and you'll still be pleased everytime you look at it.

Interior (Features, Space & Comfort)

 The interior is dated as well but like the exteriors, not dissatisfying. There is still good legroom and adequate headroom but shoulder space is tight and three will struggle to fit in the back. Equipment is decent though; you still get luxuries like air-con, a stereo that can play mp3, height adustable driver's seat, power windows on all four doors and a rear armrest. A large glass area helps give better perceived space and reduces claustrophobia. Ergonomics are decent as well. Overall a contemporary and comfortable interior - for upto four people.

Engine Performance, Fuel Economy and Gearbox

 The Engine is Fantastic. It is punchy and responsive. It may come from a time when dinosaurs walked on the Earth but it is by no means inferior to the engines of today. Thanks to its astonishingly light kerb weight and the power of the engine, it has a power to weight ratio of almost 100 Ps per ton. That makes it faster than its successor: the swift dzire. The power delivery is amazing. Torque is well spread throughout the rev range so whenever you put your foot down it has pulling power and a strong surge. It is not that loud too... when you drive normally. But when you drive it hard it becomes louder and more sporty. It is overall an epic engine. The gearbox is great too. It is slick and has well chosen ratios. Despite all the performance though, it remains frugal, doing an impressive 15 kmpl overall.

Ride Quality & Handling

 The ride is supple and comfortable. High speed stability is spot-on and it is planted. The suspension absorbs almost all of the bump and you fell very little. You hear a lot though. The suspension noise creeps in over very sharp bumps. But overall it is very comforatble. But the handling is simply epic. The Swift Dzire handles brilliantly but this is better. The chassis is sublime the, hydraulic steering is delightful to use and the driving position is perfect. It grips well too. It handles better than the Dzire mostly due to its lighter weight and its independent suspension. It is joyous, mesmerising, brilliant and wonderful to drive and you will look forward to driving it in a great driving road.

Final Words

 The Esteem overall is a staggering car. It has all you'll ever want and need from a small sedan. It is an epic car and a more than worthy predecessor for the Swift Dzire.

Areas of improvement  

 

 

Engine, Drive train, Handling, ride, smart looksNot comfortable for 3 in the back, suspension noise can be heard over very sharp bumps