Review Archives - Indiandrives.com

September 16, 2014

Used Maruti Swift vs New Datsun GO

Maruti Swift, the market leader of its segment that isn’t dethroned anytime despite heavy lash from number of rivals. Even the used car market has renounced its strong consistency throughout, which means the name is enough to cast a spell. Here, in this comparison, the used Swift and new Datsun GO are clashed against each other. Hence, the used model of 2012 make will be priced enough to take on the competition. However, as the 2015 Swift is about to enter the market, means there will be numerous examples to be available soon.

The Datsun GO rested with many expectations on the lap of Nissan. Re-launched the Datsun brand, company had aspired to enter the mass market without harnessing its existing image. GO hatchback is the only product in India and is offered in four trim levels. The top-end costs Rs 4,42,217 on-road Mumbai. The first hand review was impeccable; the long-term test could apparently do well. Sold enough to be seen on the roads, a detuned fully-fledged hatchback for the price of compact car isn’t disappointing either.

Power

Engine dwelled under the bonnet of Swift is a 1.2-liter K-Series engine that clocks 86bhp and 114NM of torque. On the flipside, Datsun GO ounces the 1.2L Micra oriented motor in the detuned mode of 67bhp and 104NM.

As specifically, the used hatchback is more powerful and is reported to have a higher service cost, while the first Datsun to India falls economically on the pocket. Nissan is new to this low-cost fraternity so no long termers available for looking into the fray, while tried and tested throughout the time Swift fares better than the rest, other than GO, on the savings.

Interior

Inside the cabin, Datsun GO hatchback is bare-basic with only the needful gimmicks planted from utilitarian perspective. The Swift on other side, the example that is couple of years old clocked near to 15-20k on the odo, doesn’t pose bad option for the bargain either. Major difference on both the cars is front seat, which is comprised of a bench from the classic cars in GO, and the gearshift too shifted on the panel instead of floor.

Swift is premium and comes loaded with all the needful tranquilities. Cabin is well insulated and the feel to it is captivated by beefy touches.

In fact, GO comparatively has airy and a lively feel, which the Swift as colored black inside and has raising waistline reduces the size of windows lends claustrophobic vibes to rear. The GO’s USB charging port and aux-in compatibility not make you feel left out of crowd that isn’t having the radio in any of its packages.

Drive Experience

Both the cars are not from the same cadre at least on paper, and obviously the Swift fares better for certain causes.

To a given cost in the new car market, as per to us Datsun Go is the best option. Gotten with complete hatchback flavor for the price of compact, it remains unbeatable. The top-speed and power delivery aren’t up for compromise here.

GO, like its name, can be stretched to the maximum. Despite the company claimed slightly lower numbers on spec-sheet, in rear world – unlike others – the Datsun fares better than what is mentioned of. Engine sound creeps in at after several RPMs making disturbances. To complement the better, power steering, central lock, power windows for front and many more are given.

Conclusion

The new car has its own admiration and the new Datsun GO couldn’t be replaced by a ‘used’ Swift. Though, they both come for almost the same price tag, at times the renounced used car dealer will also provide warranty for Maruti’s hatchback. GO will not make you face glitches over the next couple of years at least due its newness resulting peace of mind till then.

The Swift on other side is a buy from the heart option. Prominent attire and a very familiar front fascia that remarks everything else just in right proportion with regards to azure suits everyone in the family.

Hence, a one (Datsun GO) shall be bought if the brain is ultimate decision maker, while the used Swift suits best when heart keeps beating for it always. Both of them had their different persona and are catered wisely for the price paid. None of them are bad option either.

August 19, 2014

Used Tata Indigo CS Diesel Review

Despite the fate of being first in the segment with Indigo CS in 2008 (priced at Rs 3.79 lakh), Tata Motors lost its sovereignty with the passing time due to various issues popping up every now and then. At its launch (in 2008), Indigo CS was the car that kick started the hatchback converted sub-4 meter segment giving blow to the hatchbacks for being overpriced.

After several days of launch, competitors started fleeing in the segment and Tata lost the game very easily with its adulated quality standards and some major technical issues. However, the change was necessary, and at that time Tata barged in with Indigo eCS by 2010 loaded with a more efficient engine and adaptability to new emission norms. Both the cars CS and eCS were planted with 1.4-liter diesel and 1.2-liter petrol. Diesel cars sold very well and many of them are still available in abundance in used car market. Thoughtfully, the recently launched Tata Zest under 4-meter is promoted to bring in marvelous numbers at the company’s sales report, which ultimately would also help in releasing numbers of Indigo to the pre-owned market with a gush. In short, now many can afford to get their hands on the used Indigo CS and eCS which turned out to be available for a breezy price-tag. Here, we did a detailed study what to look into when buying these examples. Read on to find more about them…

Before initiating to write the actual account, let’s brief that Tata cars earlier were known for poor quality and were also commonly used in the tourist transportation, so looking into the paper-works before a test-drive would lend a brief idea of the condition happen to be underneath the hoods.

Coming to the interiors first, it is quite airy and rear bench is made sufficient to house three adults over a long drive comfortably. In fact the new model has better list of equipments, but still they lack to compete fiercely in the present-days competition. Quality was also an issue on Indigo, so looking out to buy it for a family one shall inspect interiors minutely rather than having backlashes from wife and children on the drive.

On the drivability, Indigo fares ok-ok, not so good and not so bad either. The independent rear suspension rumbles the whole body over potholes at low speeds, but becomes planted when ravaged hard at high speeds. We drove the 1.4-liter diesel powered car, the power were generous at low revs and the car felt humming to our tunes in stop=go traffic. As soon as the pedal was dabbed to the floor, drop in power was experienced. Thanks to the tuning of gearbox for such results. On an overall basis, and due to the suspension, feel of gushing and exiting the corners was full of confidence, but the steering wasn’t enough of that hasty feel. Indigo felt allover like a hatchback when driven and when parked. The city drive returned us the fuel-efficiency of 14-15 kmpl, while the highway turned out to be impressive on our fuel gauge, spanned a liter of fuel over 18-19 kms.

The problems that most commonly come to the bay are many. Starting with the turbochargers, they are known for occasionally failing to perform. This can be notice with sudden drop of power when driving, and also emission of black smoke from the exhaust. Replacing it costs approximately Rs 20k. The next is ECU malfunctioning. To check is to see if the engine light stays on even after pushing the engine to life, or if the engine produces knocking sound when driven. Replacing it will not be easy too, as one had to shell out Rs 15k. The other wear and tear: firstly the suspension takes on the toll with leaking dampers and loud sound when moving over the pothole-rigged roads. To fix it, the strut replacement calls for a check of Rs 10k and bush kit for Rs 6k. To the worst even, earlier models of Indigo was reported of uneven tyre wear which the company claimed to have sorted out in the later models. The other nipping and tucking bad experiences costs Rs 307 for an air filter and Rs 201 for oil filter. Other cosmetic accidental fixtures aren’t easy on pocket either. The front bumper gets a setback of Rs 2,889 while each unit of the headlamp meant to cover-up costs Rs 4,588. On the flipside, each of the tail lamp fixtures is priced at Rs 1,125 whereas the rear view mirror is tagged at Rs 826.

Conclusion:

A used Indigo is not the long runner. Hence, it can be bought only for an entry-pass to experience the diesel sedans’ arena, with regards to running cost, magnificent fuel efficiency and less maintenance part. Prefer a car with service history and in well-maintained condition. Avoid stepping on the bad examples just for having lured with the pocket-friendly price tags.

April 23, 2014

2014 Fiat Linea Facelift Test Drive and Review: 1.3L Multijet Diesel

Despite being very Italian in nature, Fiat still find its cars struggle hard to sell in numbers against the Maruti and Hyundai in India. Fiat sells a lot of its 1.3L Multijet diesel engine to various brands, that it seems almost every diesel car running in India are being deployed with the same. Selling that same Linea since 2009, a round of applause must be raised for Fiat for not carving out significant change during those past five years. Available in three engine options, 89bhp naturally aspirated 1.4L petrol, 112bhp 1.4L turbo-petrol (T-Jet) and the very favourite 1.3L Multijet diesel of 92bhp; turning down the petrol versions, we asked Fiat to send us a 1.3L Multijet diesel powered new 2014 Linea facelift for a test drive. And mentioned here are the first hand details we drawn on it when laid our hands on a one fine day.

On the front, it is a very much sophisticated and very Italian car on every bit. It got all the boxes ticked right by deploying chrome stark everywhere. The front grille received dual slats in chrome, while on the downside fog lamps and that whole lip spoiler, inclusive of air dam, from one end to another is done with that metal-kind shinning flair. However, it was easily remarkable the 2014 model is all new, and is Linea too. Must say, the black inserts on the backdrop of chrome structures is working impeccably, can be only thought by Italians.

Moving inside, the cabin is completely revamped. It is refreshed and feels airy, not because the windows are enlarged, but the fabric and colour scheme used are adding value to it. Beige and black colored dashboard, nifty audio system, finer plastic grains, new console are the things to talk about. Yet the digits on the coveted floating hooded new dials may fall tough to read when on zest, but in still image they do feel super. Those bonks-type oozed out dial enclosure to speedo is the perfect fit. And the most remarkable change that this new car got is the ambient lighting, which makes its customers feels special during night. The model that we were driving was the Emotion variant of Linea facelift, where its seat fabric is meant to be matched to the leather quality, which it doesn’t. The covering on steering and gear knob feels true leather, but not on the other components of car. Front passenger gets an armrest and some cubby holes all around. The space chink that was one the top of dashboard is of more utility, which can be used for keeping sunglasses and other tit-bits on the go.

The bottle holder and mid-size door pockets are of great utility for front row too. The knee room wasn’t that generous to the tall person like me. Meanwhile, on the rear, the seats were bolstered with great comfort. Leg room and thigh support find interests with short-heighted, instead of the long ones. Central armrest with cup holders completes the pinnacle. The rear AC vents doesn’t seem making an exception to the ongoing trend. Needed not to forget, the door panels were carried over but the quality feels better. The last and the least not-so-liked feature of the 2014 Linea inside cabin remain the regular ‘power-windows’. They are not anti-pinch, so children on the drive shall be taken care of while rolling the windows up. The top end variant also gets a sun-down cover for rear wind-shield.

On rear bench, there too are number of cosmetic changes. Major one is the change in number plate fixture. Earlier it was marked on the bumper, now shifted to the boot lid. The rear bumpers inclusive of front bumpers are revamped. With that minute tweaking Fiat managed to slap a one more chrome strip on the rear bumper, in addition to the side chrome skirts, for an additional price-value proposition factor. The boot lid too gets a complete makeover. The boldly encrypted LINEA over number plate enclosure is found making more promises than the brand itself. And if we aren’t wrong then the tail lamp cluster too are new, as it was fitted with one more diode which was touted for the highway driving. It remains sharp all the time, and warns other drivers like that of the fog lamps. Boot space is quite generous, but what we noticed is the Fiat sedan received hydraulic suspension for the opening of tail gate.

On the safety front, the Linea isn’t a safety-vault cocooned car, but it has enough of it to delight an average Joe. ABS with EBD, passenger and driver airbag, reverse parking sensor, and more importantly the safety-belt alarm are the ones to be named in the list.

Drive and handling experience remains tried and tested of Linea throughout the time for 1.3L Multijet. Though, already the brand made no changes in the drivetrain, so hitting the mark and attending the curve walks in through that same old road-sticky manner. There is a turbo lag till 2000rpm, but even after that the boost doesn’t comes out as what it is been expected of. Steering gives a bulky feel, but the good old good suspension eases up bumps-jumps. The potholed-filled tarmacs don’t bother either, because the ground clearance is also notched to 190mm. So, if by mistake u hit a speed-breaker at the speed of 45kmph, like what we had done accidentally, it would only grace a hitch and not the screeched or dents. Rain-sensing wipers and automatic headlamps appear of an important aide, while the top player in the list remains that “Cruise Control”, which is the first in segment. 2014 Linea facelift is done with front discs and rear drum, except the one variant T-Jet that gets discs on all four. We tried to hit all the best on it, but couldn’t find it manageable to drift it on roads, due to lack of power despite bestowed with the Turbo. But when rolled it out on the dirt, drifting was a child’s play. Now seriously, the city driving made keep shifting between the cogs, so to upkeep with the inner roads one needs to keep his temper control in composition with the gearbox. Even the open-stretches and highways feels to be better outdone by others, because of the lack of sixth gear; if added would have pumped in better power and improved fuel-economy.

Conclusion:

Overall, the 2014 Fiat Linea is a good product for the money value. Oodles of chrome, much integrated sophistication, end number of features and Italian style on every deigned cue are the things to talk about. Hence, the turbo lag is making it to stay behind the rivals, but an added feature of Cruise Control manages to sail it swiftly. Modern technicalities and a good music system with all the needful embellished, this car doesn’t needs an additional attention after the showroom. All is done and said, the 2014 Linea is a good job and the carmaker had changed the world of its sedan at a very minimal cost. We love Italians because of their outstanding design than others, which make them to stand separate even in the crowd of a thousand. Hope so, the development on the after-sales service of Fiat must improve sales numbers, likewise the increasing number of its dealerships.

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April 13, 2014

2014 BMW M6 Gran Coupe – Impresses With Excellent Design And A Luxurious Appearance

Advantages

Wide range of performance and comfort settings; responsive automated manual transmission; extremely powerful engine.

Disadvantages

Modest rearseat legroom and headroom; feels big and heavy around tight turns.

Introduction

One of the many perks of this job is, not surprisingly, the cars. It’s relatively easy to snag the keys to a vehicle for a special occasion, whether that be for a road trip, tailgating or helping a friend move. And while sometimes the tailgating might happen with Tata Xenon instead of a Range Rover and the road trip might be in a MPV rather than a Mercedes Benz S-Class, occasionally the stars align, and a special vehicle arrives for an equally special time.

That’s exactly how I found myself dressed to the nines and behind the wheel of the 2014 BMW M6 Gran Coupe, a INR1.75 crore rocket ship, en route to a rare multi-wedding weekend to celebrate with two pairs of my closest friends on the biggest day of their lives. Continuing with our nuptial theme, the M mechanicals and 6 Series Gran Coupe body are a match made in heaven. The M6 could be just what the doctor ordered! This sleeker 4-door is outrageously fast and fabulously luxurious, and it’s a delight to drive on most roads.

In addition to its state-of-the-art automanual transmission and massive power, the 2014 BMW M6 Gran Coupe features numerous Motorsport division features; these include rear limited slip differential to help get the power to the ground, intensified interior with extra helpings of simulated suede and leather and standard sport seats. On the outside, you will notice the M car’s more aggressive front fascia with its integrated carbon fiber splitter, along with a prominent roof panel made of the same exotic material.

Whether all these additions are enough to justify the M6 Gran Coupe’s considerable price tag is largely a matter of your personal taste and budget. Sedans such as Porsche Panamera, Mercedes Benz CLS Class and Audi RS 7 are all viable alternatives. Every one of these vehicles is fast and luxurious, but if you are drawn to the M6 Gran Coupe’s character and style, rest assured that it’s a fine choice for an elite 4-seater sport coupe.

Trims and Features

The 2014 BMW M6 Gran Coupe is available in a single, well-equipped trim level, which includes adaptive suspension dampers; 20-inch wheels; adaptive bi-xenon headlights; a rear limited-slip differential; automatic soft-close doors; front and rear parking sensors; front and rear parking sensors and power-folding, auto-dimming and heated side mirrors. It is visually distinguishable from other 6 Series Gran Coupes with its unique front grille and air intakes, aero-contoured carbon-fiber roof, rear bumper with diffuser elements and M-specific side vents.

Inside, you can look forward to standard keyless ignition/entry, four-zone automatic climate control, front-seat heating memory functions, aggressively bolstered 16-way power front seats (with four-way lumbar support), leather upholstery, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, interior ambient lighting, split-folding rear seats and carbon-fiber interior trim. Electronic features include Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity; adaptive cruise control; a rearview camera; BMW’s iDrive interface with a 10.2-inch display and Smartphone app integration; a navigation system; and a 12-speaker surround sound stereo system with satellite radio, USB/iPod integration and a CD player.

Engine

Motivation for the 2014 BMW M6 Gran Coupe comes from the M TwinPower Turbo eight-cylinder petrol engine, which is good for churning out 560 horsepower with 680 newton meters of torque. The M double-clutch 7-speed transmission with Drivelogic leads to high-precision gear shifts in fractions of a second and thus offers inspiring thrust without any loss in traction. The use of intelligent technologies sends driving pleasure soaring and effectively reduces emissions and fuel consumption. In spite of its impressive performance, the M6 Gran Coupe only consumes an average of 9.9 litres per 100 kilometers and is therefore one of the top of its segment. It accelerates from 0 to 100kmph in just 4.2 seconds with the top speed of 250kmph.

Safety

The 2014 BMW M6 Gran Coupe comes standard with traction and stability control, antilock disc brakes, brake fade compensation, cornering brake control, hill launch assist and automatic brake drying. It also gets front seat-mounted side airbags, front airbags, side curtain airbags, knee airbags, parking sensors, active front-seat head restraints and a rearview camera.

Interior

The intimate cabin is decidedly driver-focused and trimmed in an abundance of leather and other high-end materials, including plentiful carbon fiber accents. The unique headliner treatment pairs Alcantara simulated suede with leather in a design, which follows the contours of the carbon-fiber roof. Trunk capacity isn’t exceptional with just 12 cubic feet, but thanks to standard split-folding rear seats, there’s a fair amount of utility when you need it.

A 10.2-inch screen and BMW’s iDrive controller together handle climate, entertainment, phone and navigation functions, in addition to various vehicle settings. There’s a lot of functionality here, and although we advise you to take some time to study the various features before you hit the road, iDrive is one of the best electronics interfaces out there. Graphics are excellent, processing times are quick, and once you’re acclimated you’ll find that the organization of the menus is pretty logical.

Driving Impressions

This car does not follow an example but a philosophy. With technology from motor sports. And with comfort that meets the highest requirements: those of everyday use. The 2014 BMW M6 Gran Coupe: extravagant character and athlete in one. Not built for the mainstream but for the limits of automobile physics. Typical of BMW M. High performance that sets standards in every respect.

With an M TwinPower Turbo V8 engine that knows no equal in terms of performance, torque and efficiency. Supplemented by a seven-speed M double clutch transmission with Drivelogic, which transforms the enormous drive of the high-performance engine into an emphatic forward thrust via two transmissions with separate coupling and no disruption in power. And with a high-performance chassis, which combines razor-sharp precision with outstanding agility.

Are complete control and free personality development mutually exclusive? The freely programmable M Drive vehicle setups in the 2014 BMW M6 Gran Coupe impressively proves that they are not. Even when designing the chassis, the automaker pursued only one aim: the optimum. In every driving condition, the M6 Gran Coupe supplies the proof: mission accomplished. Its sets new benchmarks on asphalt, thanks to its broad track width, unique steering precision, superior handling and perfect road holding.

Select reinforcements and struts maximize stability; innovative technologies optimize the driving characteristics. Even individually programmed vehicle setups ranging from comfortable to ultra sporty can be activated at the press of a button on the steering wheel. As the final consequence: in M Dynamic Mode the regulating tolerance of Dynamic Stability Control operates at the limit – it only intervenes to stabilize in critical situations.

March 28, 2014

Used Tata Nano Review

Tata Nano, the car has always remained in front lines of media since it was launched in 2009. Though, it doesn’t matters whether it is there – the good or the bad reason. But the top line (sales) of Nano hasn’t lifted the mood of Tata Motors’ officials. We are less concerned about what the Nano marketing personnel are thinking, but the used market of Nano has completely floored us. Thanks to the newly launched Nano Twist with power steering, now there are good numbers of used Nano touched the stockyard of a used car dealer.

A survey to a used car dealer sat us on the heap of Nanos, ranging from the models launched in 2009 to the ones that were recently introduced last year. To be precise, the world’s cheapest car lost most of its market share due to the car that gripped fire on roads during the initial days of launch, and couple of incidents in the same cadre has completely tarnished the image of the model plate. PR personnel of Tata shall be praised for the reason they managed to save the grace at the moment, as they took a call of recalling the entire vehicle lot and fitting them with an additional fuse to avoid short circuit, and also a catalytic converter in the electrical system. In the latter years, the engineers gained more confident in the product and started rolling out the various variants and trims of it for penetrating the market sectors deeper.

Prior to entering into a detailed discussion, let us brief that the vision of Tata was to bring in the motoring to the masses with a car priced under Rs 1 lakh, but due to unfortunate reasons of the relocation of factory and also those rising steel prices played spoilsport for Indian carmaker. Despite such drawbacks, the engineers (before the launch) re-engineered the product and finally made to attain the badge of the world’s cheapest car. Here in India, that calculation of being the cheapest car doesn’t worked out during the launch, but now after certain years it seems to be working so, because the small car of Tata can be bought for as low as Rs 75,000 (depending upon the availability and condition of car) at a ‘used car dealer’. Mentioned below are some of the details we collected after our visit to a pre-owned car dealer in Mumbai.

The Nano was of 2010 make, and was asking for Rs 85,000 tag, which was negotiable. We learnt that, the asked price was quite high from the market price, but when looked into its paperwork then understood why the seller was so deliberate with regards of asking a meaty tag. Its insurance was valid upto March 2015, means a saving of approx Rs 3,000 – 4,000, and the owner was having the entire service history, means it was trustable to make a buy because of it being lidded off only in the trained hands. To our luck, the model was of the 2010 make but was produced after the month of January, so out there who are referring to buy the Nano of 2009 and the Jan 2010 shall make clear that the starter motor has been replaced in the recall made by the carmaker. Being used over the years, the Tata Nano is also reported of giving out the problems like headlight stalks malfunctioning, and the not so breezing AC blowers.

The former one may be replaced for a lower cost, while the latter one is sure to cost you hefty. The leaking evaporator coil of Nano is priced at Rs 3928. Other major issue that comes into light is the cars’ battery. Nano uses a unique battery – 25Ah, smaller than the other hatchbacks and compact cars. As the size is small it gets drained out usually earlier than stated, because of the aftermarket additions like music system and else; so if wanted to enjoy the music in Nano will cost Rs 3,000 for the battery replacement. Nano sports two different types of tyres – thin on front and wider on rear. They run for a good number of kilometers, but the cars in used market mostly are in the need of replacement, one of it costs Rs 2,200. Tata Motors offers 4 years/60,000kms warranty on Nano. Probably, most of the cars out there will be under warranty, but the one we reviewed was exclusive of it, because it has ended the tenure. Other parts that needed replacement aren’t too costly either. An air-filter costs Rs 165, while an oil-filter costs a mere Rs 87. The other accidental parts like front bumper rip off Rs 1,298 from the wallet, whereas the headlight assembly needs a blissful Rs 1,357 for the replacement. Even the major of technicalities i.e. the clutch plate is taxed at Rs 977 in the bill, which is then complemented by the clutch release bearing for an additional Rs 353.

Hope so, maintaining the Tata Nano is quite cost-efficient than the other cars, but driving it isn’t yet. Yes, that’s in the time when all of us are addicted to steer the wheel with quite ease due to power steering, the world’s cheapest car still comes without it, an exception made to the Nano Twist that the brand has launched recently. It means, parking may take the last beat of arm’s muscle to squeeze it in the right spot, but comparatively that same technicality on high speeds gives in confident. Cruising in the city is feels uber cool as you can dart in the corners without aggressive efforts.

There are speed limits to the car which we feel better shall not be crossed. Though the other journalist says, its max is 106kmph and that’s true even, but who wanted to drive safe shall not exceed the 80-90kmph bar. Overall, Tata Nano is one of the best cars available in the market, for a price tag of as low as a motorcycle. We believe, the youths are the Nano’s major target buying group in the new car segment, because of ads and TVCs reclined towards that way. We say, the used Nano too can adore the youths who are looking forward to buy their first motorcycle. The only problem is (referring to the youth and when compared) fuel-efficiency rates at near to 15kmpl in the city and a shade more than 20kmpl in highway (which are subjected to differ depending upon the driving style and cars’ condition). Overall, our rating for buying the used Tata Nano was more than the average, a cool 7 out of 10 you can say.

Technical Specifications of Tata Nano:

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March 26, 2014

Newly Updated Chevrolet Cruze Review

We recently informed that GM India launched the updated Chevrolet Cruze priced between Rs 14.37 lakh and 16.99 lakh (ex-showroom, Mumbai).

Offering the perfect blend of power, refinement and efficiency, the updated Chevrolet Cruze further strengthen its position in the marketplace with improved fuel economy for the six-speed automatic transmission variant.

Improved Fuel Economy along with Power and Refinement

The updated 2014 Chevrolet Cruze comes with both a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic transmission mated to the turbocharged 2.0-litre VCDi engine. The Chevrolet Cruze delivers 166 PS of undulated power on tap with 380 Nm of torque making the driving experience simply exhilarating.

The all-new Gen2, 6-Speed Automatic Transmission sets a new benchmark in the segment with improved fuel economy of 14.81 kmpl as per ARAI. The manual variants return a fuel efficiency of 17.3 kmpl.

Seamless gear changes mean superior acceleration off the block and instant torque delivery for effortless overtaking. The Electronic Automatic Transmission Control System offers a clutch-to-clutch shift operation for precision gear shifting. A widespread gear ratio ensures quicker getaways and the sixth gear ensures increased fuel economy at cruising speeds.

A gas-charged McPherson strut type front suspension, U-shaped rear suspension with torsion beams and gas-charged shock absorber ensure a smooth and comfortable ride. A hydraulic power rack-and-pinion power steering is tuned for more responsiveness with quick-reacting ratio. A four-wheel disc brake set-up provides excellent stopping and stable braking capability.

Refreshed Stylish Exteriors:

The updated 2014 Chevrolet Cruze comes with turn indicators on outside rear view mirrors as standard. The Cruze embodies a new dual-port front grille with gold bowtie, newly designed front and rear bumpers, new dual bezel design headlamps, new alloy wheels and new fog lamps with chrome surround across all trim levels. The new Cruze with its refreshed styling chisels a lasting impression with its bold dynamism of form, aggressive stance, muscular shoulders and taut styling crease lines.

The jewel-effect headlamps add striking character to the sporty front end. Muscular sides with chrome door handles, chrome applique on the trunk lid and mesmerizing twin-port jewel effect tail lights highlight the design enchantment.

Comfortable and Entertaining Interiors:

The new Chevrolet Cruze comes with thoughtfully researched comfort features like a six-way power adjustable driver’s seat, dead pedal, premium speakers, power-operated windows with the express-up & down feature on the driver’s window, Bluetooth music streaming and pinch guard protection for improved customer delight.

The ice-blue ambient lighting enhances this, as do the classy, elegant and comfortable jet black leather interiors. An advanced integrated centre stack with graphic infotainment display, radio and HVAC controls add to the premium feel of the car. A thicker, ergonomic rim design helps maneuver with more ease with the three-spoke steering wheel.

A sleek, no-wire experience for the car audio enthusiast is standard. Push button start, cruise control, rain-sensing wipers and an auto-dimming inside rear view mirror make the Chevrolet Cruze a dream to drive. Steering wheel-mounted cruise control automatically controls the speed for a pleasurable highway drive.

The three-gauge instrument cluster has sophisticated ice-blue dash illumination and a centre-positioned information display provides every little detail required.

Safe, Sturdy and Mighty:

Equipped with dual front airbags and two side airbags, the new Cruze enhances safety in case of a high-impact collision. The strong and rigid “safety cage” has reinforced pillars with tubular bars, which provide optimum protection to passengers. The front and rear crumple zone maximizes safety by absorbing the impact energy in a collision.

The anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic sensors provides excellent braking efficiency and shorter stopping distances, which ensures better steering control, especially on slippery surfaces. Passive Entry Passive Start (PEPS) automatically controls the central locking system, anti-theft alarm and ignition.

The pedestrian protection design of the hood and related hinge structures reduce the chance of pedestrian injury. With a child seat provision specifically designed in the rear seating area, the new Cruze offers protection for children at all times. They can be secured in any of the three rear seats.

March 3, 2014

Datsun GO Review and Test Drive

Datsun, the cost-effective brand launched by Nissan, has the first product on its launchpad “GO”. The aspiration range in gigantic numbers for the carmaker, and we are invited to find out that does it seems enough to give a tough and gutting competition to the India’s most selling and one of the top three best sellers Maruti Alto? Hopefully, the test drive session was called in the city of Hyderabad, and we found out what the engineers from Japan have clocked beneath its simple yet appealing looks. Read more here to find out, has the Datsun GO got those streaks right in the pinnacle of GO.

Exteriors:

On the first look, Datsun GO dons simple yet basic attire. The car that was given to us was of light blue paint shade, the one that the brand is seen marketing through, which also seems to be its flagship shade. So its first impression to it was quite soothing to our eyes. It was the paintjob that we were expecting to have on our platter for the tests too. The D-shaped front grille, flanked back headlamps and three air intakes on the front panel guts us to be revealing some more interesting ferns throughout the body. Connecticut, the sides also has gone through crispy creases, which the other cars in the segment may not have parched through. Overall, the aerodynamics ranging from the headlights adjoining to the Datsun logo on bootlid is impressive from a car of this category.

The combination of tail lamps and bootlid flapping is swiftly adapted ranking it to the category of hatchback. It remains an articulated fact that Datsun GO shares most of the spaces with Micra Active, but it is never meant to be uttered that the carmaker wanted to go down the line and sell its cars, without harnessing its existing brand image, which also sells the niche brand like Infiniti in the abroad and Teana in India.

Interiors:

On inside, the first and the most remarkable tip that was noticed by us was the bench-type front seat. It reminded us of those good old Fiat and Ambassador days; but sitting on the driver’s seat was worth having an experience. Starting from the dashboard, it is compiled of three different colors, and three spoke steering wheel, which everywhere is been donned with the plastic. The grain quality feels of average quality – not too high or too low. The second fact that will grab the attention after the seat is ‘gearbox and hand-brake’. The gear and hand-brake sticks are clustered in the dashboard, and is the only sort to have paved way for the single-platted seat of more convenience. When asked about having such sort of seat, the carmaker replied to have been designed it keeping in mind the utility factor, which can be used for keeping maps and other objects during the drive, rather than placing them on the floor or elsewhere. The leg and shoulder room inside are the class-leading due to the extensive wheelbase of 2,450mm.

The boot space even is consisted of 297 liters, which is groped subtle with nicely pierced in depth. Luggage will not be problem for the family of four. The car on inside as well on outside is basically designed keeping in mind the first-time buyers. The value for money remains the main focus for planting up those metals in place. Just to affirm that, the Datsun had also not left behind the technological aspect of the young generation. Four AC vents, two speakers, and docking station with USB (for charging) are said to be standard on all variants. To be specific, the top-end variant will be having power windows on front, while the manuals on rear.

The seat fabric is draped in equation of quality-money asked. The only disappointment that we seems was have to be taken care of is, the connectivity of smartphone to the dock with a USB wire, instead of upgrading it to the Bluetooth connectivity. But it feels quite lucrative to have even the docking station on it, because rivals are still far from the said. The wipers acts automatically on sensing the rain or water for top-end variant. Follow-me headlamp feature was also experienced. We were informed that, the three different variants of GO will have the trimming of features in form of power windows for the mid-variant, and the power windows as well as power steering for the starting one. The other features may remain the same. And in the last, the Nissan’s sub-brand had also pleased us by placing the bottle holders in front doors, of 1.5L each, which feels of great utility after a long tiring drive. We believe, that’s enough of the aesthetic gimmicks, shall now move towards the technical ones, with the driving experience.

Ride and Handling:

Likewise its cosmetic fronts, with no disappointing feedback, the ride and handling too remain outstanding. Firstly, the car feels impressively high from the ground, when taken the charge of driving seat. And after the ignition process, that is while moving out of the parking lot, it felicitated us with the smile on our faces. All because of the shorter turning radius and the first thumbs-up from a group of ladies who were probably the college goers, peered into our car’s front to get its cute glimpse and also a snapshot from their smartphones. The thumbs-up were then followed on our test too, with some from the bikers, and also a one from an Alto owner. Talking its technical aspirations, all of them were drawn from the three cylinder 1198cc petrol engine producing 68PS @5000rpm in term with 104NM of torque @4000rpm. The top-speed that our odo clicked was the 165kmph, but some of other media friends had made to the 170kmph without a hick. Even the more power strokes were also meant to be experienced if the noises from underneath the floor wouldn’t have stopped us there. Hope so, those noises may be on the media trial vehicles only, which could be resolved in the showrooms one. The 120kmph can be attained like a child’s play. To the science behind it, we can safely utter that, the Datsun GO is altogether the same Micra Active under the skin, because of its driving feels like a “Hatchback”.

That additional number of speed, comparatively with the Active, was due to the reduction in weight. In the nearby tout, gearing distribution can also be held responsible for it, which was shorter in first two gears and longer in the latter two. So the city driving is lucrative, whereas the overtaking on highways may need a downshift depending upon driving conditions.

The suspensions were of subtle inputs. Bad roads to an extent lent us some unsettled bumps, but the regular tarmacs haven’t impacted the noise to leak. It remains undoubted the GO has a lot of body roll. But it can be handled upto an extent on its 13-inch wheels wrapped with the 155/70R13 tubeless tyres.

Conclusion:

The Datsun GO is altogether a winner on the hand, which is needed to be supplemented by the outstanding network of service and repairs. We believe, it is going t change to scenario for Maruti and others who were ruling the roost for many years. The fuel economy that ARAI has claimed is of 20.6kmpl, and so our mix-drive of city and highway made a progress of something near to 17-18kmpl, which is almost somewhere near to its rivals. But the charm that it seems to have retained with it is the low pricing of spare parts so as to encourage many of the first-time car buyers. Expected to be launched in the category of sub Rs 4 lakh (ex-showroom) it has no rivals coming near to it in the vicinity of glazing accomplishments. And if proved successful, then the hatchback-derived A+ segment car of Datsun will definitely make way for the Nissan cars and also the MPV GO+. So guys, we say, don’t wait, GO and test drive once when it will be launched. It is worth doing that, trust us, especially the first-time car buyers.

Rating: 9/10

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February 18, 2014

Honda Mobilio Review – The Phenomenal MPV

Honda Mobilio is the third car to be designed and engineered on Brio platform, and marks the company’s entry into MPV segment in India. After the introduction at Indonesian Auto Show, the automaker invited a couple of journalists to Tokyo for examining the vehicle up close. The Indian car market has hit a bit of rough patch and most segments have been beleaguered with low customer response and dropping sales. The Japanese automaker had quite a distinct benefit when it planned to try its luck in the MPV category. The Honda Brio has been designed and engineered on such a platform that it can be ported to be used on MPV or saloon. The all-new Honda Mobilio was designed keeping Indonesia in mind, simply as it is a market, which adores multipurpose vehicles and the vehicles already thrive in the country.

Honda Mobilio was originally manufactured and launched by Japanese automaker for its domestic market, which took the company’s i-DSI engine and Global Small Platform. Amongst its features were sliding doors, which could open for easy entry and exit in confined spaces. It was designed keeping recreational activities in mind and was introduced in the year 2002. According to Honda, the Mobilio attained highest fuel rating in seven-passenger vehicle segment and could be configured in five modes; these include long mode, utility mode, refresh mode, adjustment mode and twin mode. Its body was designed for providing protection to passengers in 64 km/h front offset collision, 55 km/h full-frontal collision, 50 km/h rear collision and 55 km/h side collision.

Design

Exterior

Honda is renowned for its amazing style and exemplary looks. Recently, the Amaze further enhanced its quality. While the company’s focus either designing an economical or a luxurious vehicle, it has been able to offer a perfect combination amongst these two in Mobilio. Like the Honda Amaze and Honda Brio, the all-new Honda Mobilio is based on the same platform. So basically, there’s nothing to hide as the other two vehicles are already known to everyone. Just like Amaze, its front is pretty much appealing with chrome bar placed between honeycomb grille and chrome furnished logo. In addition to this, there are rounded headlamps with turn signal indicators and foglamps with matte black finish.

Honda Mobilio’s rear end is quite simple and pretty much identical to that of Toyota Innova. The taillamps with small grille and turn indicators act like supplement to rear beauty. The overall length of this multipurpose vehicle is 4390mm with 2650mm wheelbase, 185mm ground clearance and 1610mm height.

Interior

The Japanese automaker’s intentions are quite clear; they are planning to introduce Honda Mobilio at an affordable price unlike other multipurpose vehicles in the market. It would offer comfortable seating for up to seven passengers along with adequate interior room comprising 3-row seat configuration. Most interior design elements, particularly the seats and dashboard, are carried over from Brio. The Mobilio is still under production stage and final interior design has not been frozen yet; nonetheless it offers voluptuous interior with excellent legroom and 60:40 middle seats. Once third row folded flat, you get plenty of cargo space.

Engine

The Honda Mobilio will be available with two engine choices: DTEC 1.5 liter diesel and i-VTEC 1.5 liter petrol. Both powerplants will be teamed up with a 5-speed manual gearbox. The petrol engine generates 116.3 horsepower @ 6600 rpm with 146 Newton meters of torque @ 4800 rpm, whereas the diesel engine churns out 98.6 horsepower @ 3600 rpm with 200 Newton meters of torque @ 1750 rpm.

Safety

The Honda Mobilio comes standard with advanced safety features; these include antilock braking system with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) technology, which applies less or more braking pressure to every wheel in order to maximize stopping power while maintaining vehicular control.

The production version of Mobilio is likely to be revealed at Delhi Auto Expo this year and when it does, we could see the new king being crowned in India’s multipurpose segment.

January 16, 2014

Tata Nano Twist (Power Steering) Review

Tata Nano ‘Twist’ is meant for churning out more numbers from the hat of Nano before it gets fizzed out. The Nano with a twist, in fact, was anticipated at the time of launch itself; but to disappointment Tata Motors hadn’t did the R&D righteously, and so we are getting our hands on it for the year 2014 bloom.

Let’s be simplified with the thought of driving a Nano, power steering sounds a must for the city drive. And with this new Nano, Tata Motors has announced to have shifted the target audience from 35+ age-group to the 18+ to 35 batch who prefers all the comfort of driving sense and also wanted to go trendy at the same time, lest of bothering about the car’s price-tag.

Amplified with the purple paint shade, Nano Twist patches up the all remaining factor to demand of India’s young generation. And during the time of soaring car prices, Rs. 2.36 lakh price tag for Twist is interesting, which is only Rs. 14k more than the outgoing Nano. ‘Edition XT’ is what the Nano Twist is grouped under. The option of customization is also been made available at all the Tata Motors outlets.

Exteriors:

On seeing exteriors, minus the purple paint shade, it was the same Nano underneath. The Damson Purple paint shade was in actual one of the features portrayed by Tata Motors to entice up the eyeballs. Nothing much to do new on the Nano; the coolest options which the carmaker has portrayed in the form of customization was mind-wobbling. Decals, spoilers, and regarded detailing on interiors were meant to talk about. But the customization is not termed to fall easy on pocket. On asking one of the Tata officials at the launch, it was revealed, the package hopefully starts as low as Rs. 22k, which we were adored to. Devoid of the additional bells and whistles, Nano’s new paint job was enough to lure our attention with its luster. Apart from that, the ounce of chrome garnish on bootlid is what the world’s cheapest car got on exteriors, in the form of badges “Twist” and “XT” for the Nano Twist.

One of the customization packages was also done with silver-colored ORVMs.

Interiors:

Major chunk of changes were experienced when doors were let open to us. Interiors were feeling special: the dual tone upholstery, slightly refined plastic grains, and lot of other minute bits here and with significant importance were noticed at a first glance. There weren’t seems many of the changes did in terms of spacing, which Tata was claiming so at the venue. The most remarkable frat we liked was the dual glove box placed on each side of the instrument cluster. And that too it opens at a touch, sounding sophisticated in its class. The endowment of driver information system is the first in its class, with to claim more powerful AC, Bluetooth featured music system and keyless entry appeared there name in the list of Nano Twist. It was also surprising to see the ‘Nano badge’ on the black colored floor mat, as pf for some special edition car. Other portions which were raised a class above were the aluminium pedals, cubby hole next to gear level, and flimsy door pockets. Two good quality music speakers were jagged at the rear, with proper inlays, for boozing the car with a good music dose.

Technicalities:

Technicalities is retained the same to what it was there in the outgoing generation. The petrol powered 624cc twin-cylinder MPFI engine return output of 38PS and 51Nm of torque. The 4-speed gearbox tosses it up to the max speed of 105kmph with leading fuel-economy at 25kmpl.

Turning radius is also been shortened to 4m making lucrative to maneuver the twisty city roads.

Other additions include paint shade namely Dazzle Blue, Royal Gold, and Damson Purple, alongside the existing Papaya Orange, Pearl White and Meteor Silver.

We are interested to see what the Tata Motors is going to display at 2014 Delhi Auto Expo for the Nano.

December 19, 2013

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Edition C: Test Drive and Review

Mercedes-Benz Class is been in existence on this planet from 1982. But when the German based carmaker sold 1million units of it globally, it then decided to give Indians a gift of exclusivity for the same, which is dubbed as “Edition C”. However, the Edition C is nothing but the cosmetic change of Mercedes-Benz C220 Cdi (diesel variant). However, the carmaker has said to be rolling it out only in 500 units for India.

Hence, the above said were the trivias about the vehicle, but is the Edition C is really worth buying a one for the price of Rs. 39.16 lakh ex-showroom Mumbai. With a difference of Rs 3.36 lakh between the regular C-Class and the Edition C, it remains a question popping against the rivals like BMW and Audi whether the new Merc should be bought or not. We solved the myth by driving the vehicle, given just for a short distance at the launch venue. Hope so our experience mentioned below may clear all the queries related to it.

Exteriors:

For aesthetics Mercedes-Benz looks promising with next-to zero naggings paid to the Edition C. The AMG body kit on the outers, and slightly smoked headlamps pose as major changes. The starching lines and rest of them remained unchanged. Marking the exclusivity, an “Edition C” metal stag is stamped on the sides. The said Edition C badges are not so big in stance conveying the limited edition, but those AMG style kit on the front is enough to snob all of the rest for the new assorted C-Class looks. Chromed exhaust tips at rear dips the last call of Edition C.

Overall for the Edition C exteriors, we found it more lucrative and engaging than the conventional C-Class. In fact the 220Cdi dopes out all the sophistication, and fizzes in the racing aspiration. It seems the designers at Merc backend may have paid their effort in the form of enormous time as well as creativity.

Interiors:

Complementing the exteriors, interiors too is dignified with number of assortment. Once inside, the black suavely-fitted Alacantra leather is one of the delegated things to talk of. Blue contrast stitches running across seats makes the experience more adrenaline packed. Microfiber dashboard is now delved with silver trim instead of woods, with contrasting stitches running across. The best that we had experienced was the ‘sunroof’, and those adjacent AC vents thatched very next to it. The engineering part of German has come to an ultimate experience when we saw the inching gap between second row AC vents and sunroof, and also the vent’s positioning in alignment with rear passenger seats. Tailing the notch further, SAT-NAV comes as a standard feature for Edition C. The number of buttons remains the same on central console, to confuse for every bit of second, but will be getting used to if driven for hours.

Technical & Ride Experience:

Just as said above, engine specification remained intact to what it was been on the conventional 220Cdi. The 2143cc turbodiesel engine of 167bhp mated with 7-speed automatic gearbox is enough to give a nice bump over the others. To an extent, we fled the scene with punch of gushing powers. That’s when we realized it was the Sports mode which swooped us the way said. Eco Mode is also referred here for the Indian-settled fuel conscious buyers. The mileage was good enough to tempt its audience. Engine starts stroking in all the force post 2000rpm, but those numbers feels enough to outdo the elder sibling 250Cdi in the performance and handling experience. Only the bit that was worrying us was low-profile 225/45 R17 tyres fitted on the 17-inch 5 spoke wheels. It kept us slightly on the edge when cutting the curves, but great thanks to the automatic changeable suspension as per to the mode. In the Sports (mode) it lead us to the spoofing needed, and ultimately we grasped the kilometers swiftly on those under-estimated pieces of rubbers. However, there weren’t any differences in the performance of the existing C-Class 220Cdi and the one of Edition C.