White interiors look good but will get soiled real fast. The display car was already showing some stains.

BHPian Anduril recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Visited Lakshmi Hyundai, Kalyan Nagar with my brother-in-law to check out the new Verna since they are looking for a new car. The car looked much better in flesh than the pics. Couldn't test drive one since we were told it will be another 10 days till they get a TD car.

Few points I noted:

• The switchgear seemed lifted straight off the i10/i20.
• White interior looks good but will get soiled real fast. The display car was already showing some stains. I think the black interiors should be the pick.
• The screen bezels were huge.
• Centre console hand-rest doesn't slide forward.
• Rear retractable sunshade is a good feature but it could've been provided at the 4 windows too which is a miss.
• Rear seat space is sufficient though I felt the City was a bit more spacious.
• For a car whose top-end costs 20/21L, Hyundai could've done little more like full cladding for the inside of the boot lid, full cladding for wheel well etc.

Overall quality seemed satisfactory.

The difference between the top-of-line Verna and Creta (petrol) is around 1L approx which is negligible in EMI terms.

In my opinion, at this difference, the Creta seems more VFM considering the kit it offers at almost the same price.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

I believe that our 10-year-old Hyundai Verna fluidic with a new JVC infotainment system sounds better than our 2022 top variant Creta.

BHPian blacksantro recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

We recently bought the top variant of the 2022 Hyundai Creta (SX Optional Dualtone).

Whenever we drive, music is mandatory. The 8 Bose Speakers set up seemed very impressive, and when we had test-driven the car it sounded likewise. After delivery, the music was back on, but it didn't sound that impressive.

We gave the speakers time to burn in (a period of breaking in before they can perform optimally), but it didn't seem complete. In fact, I believe the 10-year-old Fluidic Verna we own with a new JVC infotainment system sounds better than the Creta.

The Creta seems like it isn't rightly tuned, the music seems like it is coming from the front until you move the centre a little behind. It lacks roominess, and it seems a little muffled. Coming from a family that likes to spend time picking the right sound system, this is disappointing.

The Bose webpage for the Creta doesn't give too much information. So now, we are here debating if it is time to change the speakers. We cannot change the head unit as we would lose a lot of the features. I've heard Alpine speakers are usually favoured.

What do you guys think?

Here's what GTO had to say about the matter:

I found the Creta & Seltos Bose sound system to be "good", but certainly not "excellent" as the BOSE brand name would have you believe. The MG Hector's ICE remains my favourite in this segment of cars.

Tips for improving your SQ:

• Try alternating between Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay / Android Auto to see which sounds better. In some cars, very surprisingly, it is the Bluetooth stream which sounds superior.
• If you are streaming from apps like YouTube Music or Spotify, upgrade to premium subscription, then choose "high quality" audio in the settings.

• Play with the equalizer on the head-unit first, then tweak the equalizer on your phone's music player. I did the same to Rocket Player on my Android and it made a world of difference.
• Consider upgrading the speakers.
• Damping of all doors.

Here's what BHPian civic-dk had to say about the matter:

I had exactly the same issue with my Seltos GTX DCT Plus (which I bought in Dec 2019). On opening the door pad, I found that the so-called Bose speakers had a very small magnet and the Bose branding was done only with black ink stamping (which indicated that it was made in China). I replaced the front speakers with JBL Stadium GTO 620 and the rear speakers with JBL coaxial speakers. The sound quality now while not being phenomenal, is still a big improvement over the factory speakers.

Here's what BHPian toiingg had to say about the matter:

Had the same observation in our family Seltos's Bose speakers. Changed the fronts to Audison components and there was a world of difference.

Here's what BHPian komalthecoolk had to say about the matter:

I was surprised to see the actual "Bose" speakers that are shown around 0:46 into this video.

It looks like it's just the cheapest mass-manufactured unbranded speakers that could (possibly) have been made in a Bose manufacturing unit. Granted, it still sounds better than many default car speakers but this is almost a scam. I'm expecting to get my Creta in a month. The first possible and only upgrade I'm planning for is the speaker system. Anyone knows what's amplifying all 8 speakers?

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

Space in the rear was my biggest gripe with the previous Verna; the new one corrects that issue very well.

BHPian drkritik recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Wanted to upgrade my Figo Aspire AT (Run 26k kms in 6 Years) with a Strict Budget of 20L. Was considering a less run Preowned 2018 Superb, New City, Virtus and Slavia; the usual suspects.

Finalized on City VX AT after numerous Test drives. Somehow Virtus and Slavia didn't click in spite of few Test Drives ( That is for another thread).

New Verna was Awaited eagerly before pulling the trigger. It was launched on Saturday.Better half did like the whole design a lot, I loved the rear design very much, seeing new Creta the front design for new Verna was more or less expected. Exterior design is Polarizing, saying it futuristic is a safe bet considering the new EVs in the market. But Car looks quite proportional in flesh.
Kun Hyundai offered a test drive (AT Turbo) on Sunday.

Space in the rear was my Biggest Gripe with previous Verna, New one corrects that issue very well. enough place even when front seats pulled all the way back. This gives a big car like experience both in front and rear seating. Back seat Comfort was pretty good but city will still have a slight upper edge in my opinion. Interior fit and finish is top notch no complaints whatsoever.

Features wise , ADAS, 6 Airbags , Futuristic instrument Cluster and Ventilated front Seats were quite appealing.

Test Drive: I got extensive Test Drive and covered most of the routes near my home which will be covered by this car on Daily basis. First Expression was WOW! this has serious loads of power which I had initial trouble controlling. Car doesn't feel sedate and pulls up superbly from whatever speeds (with 4 on Board). The turbo is Rev happy but the sudden gush of power at some RPMs makes it more enthusiast car than for the sedate drivers. The Road feedback may not be as good as Ford but much improved than previous Gen Verna. The handling was quite well controlled, very confidence inspiring much like the bigger sedans. It did not scrape the bottom anytime even in construction roads, Wife and Kids Pretty happy at the backseat. ADAS is quite effective for front collision warning with parking sensors being very useful. Drove many routes as a Passenger in backseat as it is going to be partly chauffer driven. Car is a looker on Road and will attract lots of eyes especially in the Red Color. I have driven many IVTs previously, so I thought the Non Turbo should be enough as this Car will be driven outside city limits very rarely.

I just went ahead and booked the Car (SXO, IVT Grey) , which could be delivered sooner than expected. Let us see how it goes.

Although I've sat in a Merc before, the most expensive & powerful car that I've driven till date was the Mahindra Thar Diesel AT.

BHPian rGT recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Today, my friend and I were headed to a Go-karting place, only to realise that the place was under renovation. We headed back, and I was disappointed as I really wanted to get some adrenaline pumping after a lacklustre week.

Then I spotted the T&T Motors banner and immediately had a brainwave. I asked my friend if he had ever experienced a Merc. He replied in the negative. And off we went to the showroom like two good-for-nothing vagabonds to get a taste of The Silver Star.

We entered and were courteously introduced to a SA. I enquired about the C300d, to which he replied that because of fewer allotments, the 300d wasn't available. No problem, the C220d then. And immediately he asked if we were interested in a test drive! Aah! Couldn't have asked for more.

He took us to the basement, where the test drive cars were kept. Because the entire building was being renovated, they were also keeping the customers' cars there. We saw a white GLC 43, a black E 53 and a G 63 in what must be the Selenite Grey colour in a satin finish. The G looked heavenly. Our test drive car was a Cavansite Blue coloured one, and it did look beautiful.

We got in, and I began setting the seat position to my comfort. Here, the SA asked for my height (6'0") and did something on that massive centre console screen, which made the seat move automatically as per my height, and I must say, it was a rather comfortable position. The SA went on to explain some connected features of the car, but I was way too excited for the actual drive to focus on all of that.

Now let's hop on to the actual driving experience. Mind you, I haven't driven a lot of cars before. Although I've sat in a Merc (pre-facelift GLC 220d) before the C, the most expensive and powerful car I've driven was the Thar Diesel AT. So my comparison points are also similar. Obviously, the C is the best car I've driven till date.

Somehow, I didn't feel intimidated when I first got into the car, it was as if everything was fresh in my mind (thanks to TBHP reviews). Pushed the gear stalk downwards to put the car in D, and we crept forward smoothly. The diesel motor felt smooth and refined at low revs. Drove out of the basement and onto the main road, and dug the throttle by about 50% and the linear pushback onto the seat put a grin on my face. I knew then and there that this was gonna be a bit of a roller coaster drive.

Did a U-turn, took an empty lane, and gave it the beans, and the C just zipped past the other cars. The pushback onto the seats, although linear, was clearly felt. And this was the Eco mode. I asked the SA to change it to Sport mode, and surprisingly he did so without any hesitation at all! Immediately the revs rose, and the throttle response became distinctly sharper. And I pinned it again, and OH MY GOD!

This time, the C flew! And during the entire drive, I made zealous use of the paddle shifters, which gave a click-clack sound. Did some unmentionable speeds in relative ease and effortlessness. The test drive was a short 2 km one on a pre-set route. So all that fun was over way too soon. I just couldn't imagine how manic the 265ps C300d would be if this was the case with the C220d. After the test drive, I saw my friend's bewildered face (couldn't gather if the bewilderment was because of the drive or because of my audacity).

A few takeaways from the drive:

1. The engine is pretty smooth and refined throughout the rev range, and it is only audible at higher revs. The engine note itself isn't bad for a diesel.
2. The 9G-Tronic is a smooth-shifting gearbox, but it was also decently quick. The responses for both upshifts and downshifts in Sport mode with the paddle shifters were pretty quick for a TC.
3. The suspension was neither soft nor stiff. It felt just right. Sharp bumps could be felt, but shouldn't be a deal breaker for most.
4. The C220d has a 6-speaker music system, which is just about okay. Nothing to write home about.
5. The car's auto start/stop system is smooth, but it can be felt when the engine shuts on/off. I turned it off at the beginning of the drive, so as to minimise its hindrance.
6. The steering, in all honesty, didn't feel really different from that in our Creta. It's light, direct and accurate, but lacks feedback.
7. Talking of the steering, the horn pad is hard, and also a stretch for the fingers. Can be a bit of a problem in dense and chaotic Indian traffic.
8. Using the massive screen in the middle for almost all purposes while driving is a challenge, and would take time to get used to.
9. Visibility all around was pretty good. Having been used to a C-SUV, I didn't feel anything untoward or odd when it came to viewing the surroundings.

All of my observations are related to the actual driving experience, and not to the car overall, the reason being, I was too engrossed in driving it. Forgive me, if certain observations are noob-like, but this was the first ever test drive, where I was actually driving the car, and was not just a passenger.

That's about it. I want to add a note of appreciation for the folks at T&T Motors, Gurgaon, and our SA, Mr. Mohit Dang, for accommodating us, despite us being seemingly under-aged to buy a Merc.

P.S. The SA was impressed with my ability to use the paddle shifters so ineptly (now I realise why he wasn't hesitant to engage the sport mode). As per him, in his two years of being a Merc SA, he had never seen anyone use the shifters as liberally as I did. In my mind, I went, "Well, that's what happens when you come across someone who happens to be a car freak and an F1 worshipper."

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

Enthusiasts can blast the Hector all they want, but the fact is, it is unbeatable as a spacious, comfortable, family cruiser with a softly sprung suspension.

MG Hector

What you'll like:

• Big size & lots of bling for the money! We find the Hector to be well-priced
• A spacious cabin that can easily seat 5 adults. Massive 587 litre boot too
• Refined 1.5L petrol is mated to a smooth CVT
• Fiat-sourced 2.0L diesel is simply fantastic
• Compliant ride quality. Suspension is tuned for comfort
• Lots of kit (panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, electric seats & tailgate etc.)
• ‘Connected’ Tablet ICE with an embedded SIM & lovely sound quality
• 5-year / unlimited km warranty with roadside assistance
• Top safety equipment includes 6 airbags, ESP, HSA, all-wheel disc brakes, TPMS & more

What you won't:

• Awkward styling on the side & rear profiles. Looks weird from some angles
• Sloppy high-speed handling, noticeable body roll & easy understeer
• The turbo-petrol engine is “adequate” at best. Nothing for enthusiasts here
• Petrol CVT combination is a gas guzzler. Realistically, you can expect ~10 km/l
• No Diesel AT (Creta, Seltos, XUV500, Hexa offer this combination, which we love)
• Some annoyances like the ~6 meter turning radius, strange rpm meter (digital)…
• Small after-sales network. Service quality & long-term reliability are big unknowns
• Don’t get blinded by the British branding. This is a Chinese car

Review link

Tata Harrier

What you'll like:

• Stunning looks & strong road presence. Solid build too
• Well-priced for the package on offer
• Classy, spacious cabin with comfortable seats & a chilling air-con
• Fantastic 9-speaker audio system. Sound quality & bass are enjoyable
• The 168BHP, 2.0L diesel offers good performance
• Smooth & competent 6-speed automatic transmission
• 205 mm of ground clearance + terrain response system. Latter will make monsoon driving safer
• Topnotch safety kit includes 6 airbags, ESP, break reminder, hill hold, brake disc wiping & more
• Features such as the panoramic sunroof, Eco & Sport modes, auto headlamps & wipers, cruise control…

What you won't:

• Concerns over niggles & long-term reliability. Few customers have reported problems
• Heavy steering gets cumbersome at parking / u-turn / crawling speeds (<5 km/h)
• Although improved, the Harrier's steering @ 120 km/h is still a level too sensitive
• Diesel engine does get loud at 3,500 rpm & its engine note is quite sad too
• No petrol option (almost all competitors offer it). No AWD for enthusiasts either
• Harrier AT’s focus is on smoothness & comfort; gearbox is not the most responsive
• Service visit every 6 months / 7500 km (12-months is the norm today)
• Tata's after-sales service quality is a hit or miss. Remains a gamble

Review Link

Hyundai Creta

What you'll like:

• A superbly engineered all-rounder that delivers a premium experience
• We find the Hyundai Creta to be well-priced for what it offers
• User-friendly interiors with sufficient space & good-quality parts
• Loved the 1.4L turbo-petrol & 1.5L diesel. These are fantastic engines
• Smooth & competent automatic gearboxes available. With the useful "auto-hold" feature too
• Sorted road manners & handling for a Hyundai, including on the highway. You will be surprised!
• The Creta's safety package includes 6 airbags, ESP, all-wheel disc brakes, TPMS etc.
• Impressive kit (panoramic sunroof, paddle shifters, Bose sound system, cooled seats, cabin air purifier & loads more)
• Hyundai's competent after-sales service, fuss-free ownership & upto 5-years standard warranty

What you won't:

• Scored just 3-stars in the GNCAP crash tests
• Oddball love it or hate it styling. We find the Creta's exterior design to be too weird & futuristic
• Firmer suspension isn't as cushy as the 1st-gen Creta. It is more comfortable than the Seltos though
• Back seat's width makes it better for 2 adults and a kid, rather than 3 adults
• Some misses (no auto wipers, 360-degree camera, illuminated window buttons, full-size spare tyre on top trims)
• Dual-clutch ATs (like the Hyundai Creta Petrol DCT) have a history of poor reliability in India
• Diesel’s 113 BHP & 250 Nm – although adequate – are the lowest in the segment. Old 1.6L CRDi was superior
• No manual transmission available with the fast 1.4L Petrol (Seltos offers this combo)
• You get bigger SUVs & Crossovers for the same money (e.g. Hector, Harrier)

Review link

Kia Seltos

What you'll like:

• A superbly engineered all-rounder that delivers a premium experience
• Handsome, contemporary styling. Looks very sharp
• We find the Seltos to be well-priced for what it offers
• Nice, user-friendly interiors with sufficient space & good quality
• Loved the 1.4L turbo-petrol & 1.5L diesel. They are BS6 compliant too
• Both the automatics - Diesel AT & Petrol DCT - are simply fantastic!
• Mature on-road behavior, including at highway speeds. A+ brakes as well
• Unusually wide variant offering. Seems there is something for everyone
• Safety kit includes 6 airbags, ESP, all-wheel disc brakes, blind spot monitor, TPMS etc.
• Impressive kit (360-degree camera, HUD, front parking sensors, Bose sound system, cooled seats, cabin air purifier & loads more)

What you won't:

• Barely managed 3-stars in the GNCAP crash tests (full discussion)
• Firm suspension. Liveable, but bad roads will bother you (especially on 17" wheel variants)
• Back seat's width makes it better for 2 adults and a kid, rather than 3 adults
• Niggles are being reported by owners (details here)
• Some misses (illuminated window buttons, thinner spare tyre on top trims, no dual-tone option on GTX+ / HTX+)
• Dual-clutch ATs (like the Petrol DCT) have a history of poor reliability in India
• Diesel’s 113 BHP & 250 Nm – although adequate – are the lowest in the segment. Creta 1.6L is faster
• Extremely confusing & complicated variant spread. We still haven’t gotten the hang of it!
• Kia's after-sales service quality is an unknown. We await details in our ownership reports
• You get bigger SUVs & Crossovers for the same money (e.g. Hector, Harrier, XUV500)

Review link

Maruti Grand Vitara

What you'll like:

• A competent hybrid car for the mass market
• 20+ km/l FE in city driving conditions makes the Grand Vitara cheaper to run than a diesel!
• Lower emissions will appeal to environmentally-conscious buyers. And those who aren’t ready for an EV yet
• Toyota’s reliability & expertise in hybrid systems is very reassuring in the Maruti
• Seamless Hybrid system that makes driving a breeze. A car you will enjoy driving in traffic
• Maruti's AWD system provides impressive soft-roading capabilities. Can get you out of tricky situations when touring
• Compliant ride quality coupled with balanced driving dynamics
• Well-equipped with features such as driving modes, panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, ventilated seats, wireless smartphone charging, connected car features, wireless Android Auto + Apple CarPlay and more
• Maruti’s excellent after-sales service, wide dealer network & fuss-free ownership experiences
• Does most things well, but doesn’t excel in any particular area (other than fuel economy)

What you won't:

• Practicality is compromised due to reduced boot space in the full-hybrid variant
• Interior quality and fit & finish are underwhelming at this price point
• AllGrip AWD is only available in a single MT trim. Missed opportunity to market a USP
• Interior is narrow and doesn't feel as roomy as some competitors. Rear seat is best for 2 adults
• Lacks the outright performance of the competition. Runs out of steam above 110 km/h
• Not as engaging to drive as the German competitors, or the Creta / Seltos turbo-petrols
• NVH levels from the drivetrain are surprisingly poor for a hybrid. Sounds from the 3-cylinder engine, electric motor and brake vacuum pump filter into the cabin
• The Honda City’s Hybrid system is smoother, more sophisticated & more refined
• Missing features such as rain-sensing wipers, premium audio + subwoofer, electric seats, electric parking brake, LED interior lighting, etc.
• Does most things well, but doesn’t excel in any particular area (other than fuel economy)

Review Link

Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder

What you'll like:

• Very good attempt at making a mass-market hybrid car
• 20+ kmpl FE in city driving conditions makes the Hyryder cheaper to run than a diesel!
• Seamless hybrid system that makes driving a breeze. A car you will enjoy driving in the city
• Lower emissions will appeal to environmentally-conscious buyers. And those who aren’t ready for an EV yet
• Toyota’s reliability & expertise in hybrid systems is very reassuring
• Compliant ride quality coupled with balanced driving dynamics
• Well-equipped with features such as driving modes, panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, ventilated seats, wireless smartphone charging, connected car features, wireless Android Auto + Apple Carplay and more
• Only Crossover in this segment to provide AWD capability
• Toyota’s after-sales quality is usually regarded as top-notch by owners
• Does most things well, but doesn’t excel in any particular area (other than fuel economy)

What you won't:

• Practicality is compromised due to reduced boot space in the full-hybrid variant
• Quality of interior plastics feels more “Maruti” than Toyota. Frankly, the S-Cross cabin feels better in quality
• Interior is narrow and doesn't feel as roomy as some competitors. Rear seat is best for 2 adults
• Missing features such as rain-sensing wipers, premium audio + subwoofer, electric seats, electric parking brake, LED interior lighting, etc.
• Lacks the outright performance of the competition. Runs out of steam above 110 kmph
• Not as engaging to drive as the German competitors, or the Creta / Seltos turbo-petrols
• NVH levels from the drivetrain are surprisingly poor for a hybrid. Sounds from the 3-cylinder engine, electric motor and brake vacuum pump filter into the cabin
• AWD available only on the MT (not the AT) and the mild-hybrid (not full-hybrid)
• The Honda City’s Hybrid system is smoother, more sophisticated & more refined
• Does most things well, but doesn’t excel in any particular area (other than fuel economy)

Review Link

Volkswagen Taigun

What you'll like:

• Has its own fresh, European character and complements its cousin (the recently launched Skoda Kushaq) nicely in a segment dominated by Indian, Korean and Chinese SUVs
• Unmistakably VW styling matched with solid European build quality
• Cabin has good legroom to offer, supportive seats, perfect ergonomics & lots of storage
• 148 BHP engine makes the Taigun one of the most fun-to-drive crossovers in the segment!
• Sporty 1.0L & 1.5L turbo-petrols are mated to slick 6-speed MTs & smooth ATs
• Sorted suspension offers a balanced ride & handling package
• Safety features include up to 6 airbags, ESC (all variants), 3-point seatbelts for all, electronic differential lock, brake disc wiping, multi-collision brake and more
• Features like active cylinder tech, ventilated seats (weirdly 1.0 TSI only), sunroof, 10-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and CarPlay, auto headlamps & wipers etc.
• Advantages over the Kushaq = a top AT variant with 6 airbags, design that stands out more, cabin 'feels' better, fabric seats are executed in a nicer manner...
• 5-star GNCAP safety rating - full details here!

What you won't:

• No 1.5L diesel is a major disadvantage in a world where petrol costs over 100 bucks/litre
• GT customers will need to choose between the rock (potential DQ200 transmission problems) and a hard place (GT manual variant misses out on many top-end features)
• Narrow cabin width makes a 5th adult completely unwelcome. Best for 4 onboard
• Interior colour scheme and quality don't feel up to traditional VW standards. Some polarising details too (chrome outside, painted plastics inside...)
• Sure lacks the street cred / presence offered by some competitors
• VW’s after-sales service can be a hit or miss. Many VW owners find it expensive too
• Missing some now-expected features such as 6 airbags in the MTs, a subwoofer, driving modes (sport), panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, electric driver's seat adjustment & rear window blinds
• Turbo-petrols are very sensitive to driving style. FE will drop drastically when you drive hard
• Kushaq's 'clever' touches are missing = no spot on top of the dashboard to place a deity, no smartphone holders on the front seatbacks, no ticket clip on the windshield, no elastic band in the doorpad to keep items in place, or even something as simple as the small reflective tapes on the doorpads

Review Link

Skoda Kushaq

What you'll like:

• A breath of fresh (European) air in a sea of Korean, Chinese & Indian SUVs
• Classy exterior & interior styling matched with solid European build quality
• Cabin has good legroom to offer, supportive seats, perfect ergonomics & lots of storage
• 148 BHP engine makes the Kushaq one of the most fun-to-drive crossovers in the segment
• Sporty 1.0L & 1.5L turbo-petrols are mated to slick 6-speed MTs & smooth ATs
• Sorted suspension offers a balanced ride & handling package
• Safety features include 6 airbags (sadly MT only), ESC (all variants), 3-point seatbelts for all, electronic differential lock, brake disc wiping, multi-collision brake and more
• 6-year extended warranty & 4-year all inclusive service packages available
• Features like active cylinder tech, ventilated seats, sunroof, wireless Android Auto and CarPlay, audio system with a punchy subwoofer, auto headlamps & wipers etc.
• 5-star GNCAP safety rating - full details here!

What you won't:

• No 1.5L diesel is a major disadvantage in a world where petrol costs over 100 bucks / litre
• DQ200 DSG transmission has a history of poor reliability & breakdowns in India
• Narrow width makes a 5th adult completely unwelcome. Best for 4 onboard
• Lovely 1.5L TSI is only available on the top variant
• At 385 litres, boot space is lesser than its direct rivals (Creta & Seltos = 433L)
• Sure lacks the street cred / presence offered by some competitors
• Skoda’s notorious dealerships & after-sales horror stories
• Missing some now expected features such as driving modes (sport), panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, electric driver's seat adjustment & regular USB ports
• Turbo-petrols are very sensitive to driving style. FE will drop drastically when you drive hard

Review Link

Jeep Compass

What you'll like:

• Handsome Cherokee-inspired styling & loads of character
• Solid build. Feels very robust, just as a Jeep should
• Powerful 2.0L diesel. Good driveability in the city, fast on the open road
• 1.4L turbo-petrol makes 161 BHP! Offers fast performance.
• Mature suspension setup, nicely-tuned EPS & rock-solid stability
• Capable AWD available (unlike some competitors)
• City-friendly: Compact size, higher seating, smooth gearshift, soft clutch & low NVH
• Topnotch safety: Strong all-disc brakes, a plethora of electronic aids & 6 airbags
• We think the Compass is well-priced for what it offers. The driving experience & overall package feel premium

What you won't:

• Small size for the price! A sentiment echoed by most people who saw it in person
• Suitable for 4 adults, not 5. Boot is small too
• Tiny dealership network. Plus, after-sales quality & long-term reliability are unknown factors
• 4x4 is no longer available with the MT. AWD AT commands a ~4 lakh premium over 4x2 MT
• Turning radius of 5.65m is wide. Also, 17º approach angle is too low
• Missing goodies (blanks on the steering, lumbar adjustment, reclinable rear seats)

Review Link

Review Link - Petrol AT

Link to Report - The Trailhawk

Mahindra XUV 700

What you'll like:

• Handsome styling matched to solid build quality. Has street presence, feels robust
• Very spacious interiors with comfy seats and sorted ergonomics. 6-footer passengers welcome!
• 182 BHP turbo-diesel & 197 BHP turbo-petrol make for a potent line-up
• Smooth 6-speed torque converter Automatics available with both engines
• Sorted suspension with good road manners & high speed stability
• AWD available for the adventurous, unlike most FWD crossovers in the segment
• Loaded with features like radar-based driver assistance system, pop-out door handles, panoramic sunroof, driver memory seat, 360-degree camera, 10.25" infotainment & instrument cluster etc.
• 12-speaker Sony audio system is fantastic! You'll enjoy its sound quality
• Safety features include 7 airbags, ESP, all-wheel disc brakes, hill hold, hill descent control, driver drowsiness detection, TPMS, ISOFIX...

What you won't:

• Negligible boot space with the 3rd-row seat up. Either 5 onboard, or 7 with a roof-top carrier
• Cramped 3rd-row seat is best suited to children only. A sliding middle row is sorely missed
• Petrol AT is thirsty due to its hefty weight, 197 BHP & torque-converter AT
• Some cabin plastics & a few rough areas don't feel premium in an otherwise loaded SUV
• Missing features such as an auto-dimming IRVM, ventilated seats, paddle shifters, full-size spare wheel, ambient lighting, rear sunblinds...
• Concerns over niggles & bugs in a freshly baked, complex Mahindra. We saw 2!
• Mahindra's after-sales service is a hit or miss. Remains a gamble
• AWD is available just with the Diesel AT, and not the MT or petrol motor

Review Link

Here's what GTO had to say on the matter:

Enthusiasts can blast the Hector all they want, but the fact is, it is unbeatable as a spacious, comfortable, family cruiser with a softly sprung suspension. I have recommended the Hector to many people in my circle who were looking purely at a comfort-mobile and each of them is very happy with the purchase. MG also scores well on sales & service experiences.

It is however, not my kind of car. If I were buying an SUV in this segment, it would be the XUV700. If high running, then the practical Diesel AT. If the usage is on the lower side, then the fast & refined Petrol AT.

Here's what BHPian AtheK had to say on the matter:

Great comparison, and I eventually settled for facelift Hector. The enthusiast in me has taken a back seat as years have gone by, and my prime requirement in the car was for my 9 year old son to be comfortable on long drives. Secondary was to have a very good music system that I can listen to, when I put the car on cruise control at 110 on highway and have a good relaxed drive. Hector is slow of the block but once turbo kicks in it cruises silently at 110 with enough power on tap to make some quick overtakes. Hector checked both my requirements and wife loved the view and space in passenger seat as well. The worldly creatures like ventilated seats, ambient lights, electrnic boot and wireless CarPlay adds up to overall mood uplift. We took the car for a long 100 KM drive to see if my son was comfortable and he really had a good time in the car which sealed it. Need to zero down on the bling though as I personally don't like chrome at all, so a lot of that will be taken out.

For the enthusiast in me I have my bikes, I can have all the fun I want and no one to bother me every second to slow down.

All in all I echo GTO sentiment and he has put it perfectly this car is not for enthusiasts they need to look at XUV. I had also given XUV a long thought but 9-10 months of waiting was something I was not ready for and also deal with the niggles in the car, they still have issues with wireless android auto and CarPlay.

PS: One car which can now make entry to this list is Alcazar, now with a new turbo engine which puts in a very good power it can actually be a great choice. As a matter of fact I was thinking of going to take a test drive if new engine but got a message that my hector has been allocated so now will take delivery of hector next week.

Read BHPian comments for more insights and information.

Honda’s new SUV will share its underpinnings with the 5th-gen City and will be powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine.

Earlier this year, Honda teased its first midsize SUV for the Indian market. The SUV, which will take on the likes of the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos, is already being put through its paces on Indian roads. Now, a new report suggests that its global debut will be held in June 2023.

Honda’s new SUV will share its underpinnings with the 5th-gen City. In terms of design, the car is likely to borrow cues from Honda’s other global models. It is expected to measure anywhere between 4.2-4.3 meters in length. Spy images suggest that the car will have a decent road presence and will feature an upright front fascia with LED daytime running on either side, flared wheel arches and a set of roof rails.

Under the bonnet, the new model will feature the 1.5-litre petrol engine from the City. However, it is expected to get a higher tune and improved mid-range grunt. Reports suggest that Honda might introduce a strong-hybrid version along with a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine at a later date. Transmission options will include a 6-speed manual and CVT.

Source: Autocar India

I went to the showroom to cancel my pre-booking of the Hyundai Venue as it was too compact for my liking.

BHPian Artyom recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

After getting married and moving to Bangalore, I felt the need for a 4-wheeler as the frequent trips on my beloved Apache 160 were becoming tiresome and so the search began.

Being my first car, I was apprehensive about buying a bigger vehicle, especially in Bangalore.

One fine day I was talking to my dad, and he brought up the idea of relocating our Alto 800 from Punjab to Bangalore. This would meet our requirements and so the vehicle was relocated to Bangalore in February 2014.

We thoroughly enjoyed the trips to Ooty, Kabini, Coorg, Mangalore, Gokarna, and Pondicherry in our beloved Alto and it drove like a charm.

Fast forward to 2019, we observed our trips were getting frequent and the distance we were travelling was increasing. Alto was capable enough to travel from point A to B but it was not that comfortable and so we decided to make the move to something bigger which offers features and comfort.

Finally, we sold the Alto at 28k Odo Reading after 5 years.

Budget

It was finalized- 11-11.5 OTR Bangalore

Priorities

• Petrol as our running didn’t qualify to buy a Diesel.
• High Ground clearance.
• NA Engine strictly with Manual Transmission.
• Tried and tested mechanicals.
• 5-seater with decent boot space.
• Quality fit and finish for Interiors.

Coincidentally there were a couple of new launches, so we kept our options flexible just in case.

The test drives were taken in the following order:

Ford EcoSport

First test drive & we felt at home. The build was top-notch and the commanding position was a new experience. Despite being a 3 cylinder, it was refined. The suspension was on the harder side and within the city was a little unsettling.

XUV 300

The size was overwhelming. The interiors were too flashy and the test drive vehicle had squeaks and sounds coming which the SA couldn’t explain. Plus, it was a Turbo unit. It was a proper 5-seater though.

Venue

Had been following the launch and were impressed with the features on offer and we felt it was the right choice so pre-booked it. On the day of the launch, we both sat in the front seats and to our disappointment, it felt claustrophobic. We were so disappointed that we immediately visited the Ford showroom which was next door and sat in EcoSport’s cabin to observe the difference and mind you it was considerable. We took a TD of the DCT version and felt just OK. Space was a major concern. It’s a strict 4-seater.

Duster

We took the TD for the manual variant, and it was Ok. The SA was least interested to sell the vehicle. That clubbed with the dwindling sales we felt it was better to drop it.

We took multiple test drives of all the vehicles above to ensure we take an informed decision.

We had finalized EcoSport Titanium Plus and were about to book but at the last minute, we were told that Ford is not taking bookings for Titanium + and there was a facelift in the works. I read through various forums and all of them said the facelift will have a lot of options removed which usually made EcoSport a value-for-money option. Again, I was left disappointed.

I had almost given up and thought let’s take a break and resume the hunt after a few months with a fresh mind. Since Venue was dropped, I wanted a refund so visited Trident Hyundai. It was a busy weekend as Venue had just launched and the staff was busy catering the customers. I was waiting for them to process the refund.

It was taking time, so I started glancing through the models casually and saw the Creta on display. To kill time, I asked the SA to give me a test drive and so he obliged.

It was a Top model Manual transmission test vehicle. Oh boy. Instantly we felt we are sitting in a bigger and more spacious vehicle with a refined engine. The acceleration was butter smooth and it had oodles of space for the 2 of us. Cabin was quiet. Fit and finish was A level. I took 2 test drives back-to-back.

After the TD we both were perplexed. There was a major bump in the price (11.5 Lakhs vs 15.45 Lakhs). I felt that if we go with Creta it will be a future-proof buy. This was the last iteration of the 1st Gen Creta which meant all the niggles were sorted out. I wasn’t a fan of the new-gen Creta looks so if it was Creta it had to be this model.

It was almost 8 pm and I quickly called my parents to discuss, and my dad said. “Buy what brings a smile to your face” and the decision was made. We finally booked Creta SX 1.6 Petrol Manual.

Booking, PDI, Delivery Experience

The Booking was seamless, and the delivery date was promised 1 month from booking.

25 days later I followed up and no one had a clue where the vehicle was. I had to escalate and finally got the status and ETA. I got the VIN allocated to the vehicle from the SA and then checked and it was fresh out of the oven piece.

Did the PDI 1 day before delivery and it was to my satisfaction.

Finally “Artyom” as I call him came home on 19th June 2019. Overall, the experience was satisfactory.

What I Like

• In the dying breed of NA 4-cylinder engines, it’s one of its kind 1.6 Litre unit.
• Fit, finish and quality of interiors are holding up fine without issues.
• Easily can accommodate 5 people
• Soft suspension makes the city drives a breeze and gobbles up the bumps.
• Seating position and seat comfort have been phenomenal. I have driven 18 hours straight and was surprised there was no fatigue or backache.
• FE is acceptable considering it’s a 1.6 liter engine (11.5 in City and 15-17 on Highway)
• A lot has been said about its braking but in my experience, I have encountered the notorious issue 2 or 3 times that too on a gravel surface. Other than that, it has worked effortlessly. No Complaints.
• The steering weighs up as the speed increases and unless you are 135+ you will not feel nervous.
• I have done Bangalore - Punjab trip twice with a full load and I never felt the engine is underpowered.
• Very good NVH insulation especially coming from an Alto.
• AC is satisfactory and chills in no time.
• Touch and feel of all buttons and click reeks quality.
• Gear shifts are butter smooth without any jerks.
• HU is no nonsense unit with basic features working without any surprises.
• Service Costs and spare availability is acceptable.

What could have been better

• OEM tires were the lowest of the grade, 3 tires had gone bad within the first year due to manufacturing defects. Fortunately, they were replaced with help from a friend.
• No 12V socket in the boot.
• It has a Projector setup which is useless on highways especially when the oncoming traffic is using high beam. Even driving during the night, the throw of light is very weak.
• At this price point telescopic steering adjustment should have been provided.
• Ground clearance at 190mm is lower than the competition.
• This is not a vehicle for enthusiasts and is more suited for sedated driving.

Parts Replaced so far (Mechanical Issues)

At 19947 Km I faced a pre-mature Slave Cylinder failure which was replaced under warranty.

Niggles

Squeaking noise from the rear seats which was due to a loose locking and was fixed by the Service Center.

Aftermarket Accessories / Additional fitments or Purchases

• Sensairy TPMS (Internal)
• Dashcam (Front and Back)
• Roof Wrapped
• Ceramic Coating (IGL Kenzo)
• Tyre Inflator
• Jumper Cables
• Under body Coating

Service Maintenance Costs

• 1st Service -> Zero
• 2nd Service -> 4359 Inr
• 3rd Service -> 7081 Inr
• 4Th Service -> 13365 Inr
• Total-> 24,805 in 3 years 8 months

Challans

• Two Challans for Over speeding while passing Telangana.
• One Challan for wrong parking in Bangalore.

Dents and Breakages

• 1st dent courtesy of a luggage carrier who couldn’t brake on time and scrapped the rear right side. Painful but can’t help.
• Multiple Chippings on the front windshield were observed.
• Left Side rear View Mirror cracked while parking so got it replaced.

Future Plans

• If all goes well the next trip will be to the Northeast followed by a Leh Ladakh trip. Travelogue will follow rest assured.
• I will be extending the warranty till the 7th year soon to ensure peace of mind. Currently, it's till the 5th year.
• Changing the tires in another 10000 Kilometers and Brake pads during the next service.

Overall Impressions

Every time I drive Artyom it brings a smile and every time I park it a 2nd glance is assured. I hope that sums up my emotions.

My First ride Alto 800_2014 Till 2019_28000Km

1st Glance and PDI Inspection

1st Trip to Pondicherry

Artyom Comes Home

On the Way back from Pondicherry

Roof Wrapped

On the way back from Vizag

TeamBhp Meets

Trip to Shimla

Fully Loaded during 1st Trip to Punjab

Artyom and dad's Venue

Left RearView Mirror Breakage

The Dent. Ouch.

Slave Cylinder Replacement

Milestone Click

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

The Hyundai Creta is now available in six variants: E, EX, S, SX, SX (O) and Knight Edition.

According to a media report, Hyundai has made some changes to the Creta variant lineup. It is said that the SUV is no longer available in SX Executive trim. It also loses the Mulberry Red exterior colour.

The Creta SX Executive was available with the 1.5-litre petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engine options priced at Rs 13,99,500 and Rs 15,43,300 (ex-showroom). Both versions came with a 6-speed manual transmission. While the report claims the variant has been discontinued, it is still listed on the brand’s official website.

Hyundai introduced the 2023 Creta earlier this year. The SUV is available with 1.5-litre petrol and diesel engine options as before, while the 1.4-litre turbo-petrol has been discontinued. That being said, the latter will be replaced with a new 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine in the near future.

With the SX Executive trim removed, customers are left with a choice of six variants: E, EX, S, SX, SX (O) and Knight Edition.

Source: Carwale

The SUV is based on the Creta facelift that is yet to be launched in India.

Hyundai has launched the Creta N Line Night Edition in Brazil. The SUV is based on the Creta facelift that is yet to arrive at our shores.

As the name suggests, the Creta N Line Night Edition features an all-black exterior with a black grille and bumpers, smoked headlamps & tail lights and 18-inch alloy wheels finished in black. Even the logos and badges on the car have a black finish.

Inside, the Night Edition comes equipped with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated driver’s seat and automatic climate control. It also gets features like cruise control, a 360-degree camera and Level-2 ADAS.

The SUV is powered by a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine that puts out 157 BHP and 202 Nm. The engine is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The Creta N Line Night Edition is offered with two colour options: Black, Silk Grey with Black roof and White with Black roof. Production has been capped at 900 units.

I had to pull over to the side and stop driving for about 10 min and then resume my journey.

BHPian tiagoatrix recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Realized that DCT is not meant for heavy traffic.

Yesterday I was stuck in a massive traffic jam, it was like start /stop kind of traffic. Finally got the transmission overheat message, so had to pull over to the side and stop driving for about 10 mins. Luckily resumed journey after that.

Avoid purchasing DCT if your intended usage is primarily city use, in dense traffic.

I would recommend an extensive test drive before buying.

Here's what BHPian MyLife_MyCar had to say on the matter:

How long were you stuck in traffic for? Is this the first time you were stuck in a traffic that long?

BHPian tiagoatrix replied:

I was in traffic for about 20-30 minutes.Had faced longer traffic, but this one was a creeping traffic, stop - accelerate - break, couldn't shift to N or use auto hold.

Usually I shift to N in traffic.

But, after about 10 minutes of stop, I could resume driving. Will update in future.

Here's what BHPian sudeepmehrotra had to asy on the matter:

I see you have driven this car for about 16k km already. A few queries:

• Is it the first time you faced this issue?
• Has your driving been in similar weather / temperatures historically since purchasing? I see the outside temperature is 40 deg in this case.
• Has your car usage largely been city traffic all this while, or a large part has been highway traffic etc?

BHPian tiagoatrix replied:

• Yes that was the first time I had faced that warning.
• Outside temp was around 30 deg celcius, I'm from Tamil Nadu, so I've been driving in higher temperatures, but possibly that was worst traffic that I had faced.
• My run is 90% highways, I wouldn't have bought DCT if my primary usage was city.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.