Some of the types that are available in India include hatchback, sedan, SUV, crossover, MPV/MUV, sportback, coupe, SUV coupe, convertible and pickup truck.

BHPian Aditya recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Which one is your preferred body style and why?

Cars come in various body styles. Manufacturers are continuously looking to attract more customers by coming up with new body styles. While some would prefer an SUV for its butch looks, some prefer small hatchbacks and others want the exclusivity that a coupe or convertible gives. Here's a look at some of the body styles that cars available in India come in.

Hatchback

Some of the cheapest cars you can buy today are hatchbacks. They have a shorter wheelbase and are smaller in size than other types of cars. This means that they are easier to drive and park in crowded cities. If the rear seatbacks are folded, a hatchback can carry a good amount of cargo too.

Coming to the drawbacks, since the cars are small in size, interior space is limited, especially at the rear. Also, with all seats occupied, the boot is smaller in size compared to other cars. Apart from this, many hatchbacks have low roofs making ingress & egress difficult.

Sedan

Sedans, in general, have more cabin space than hatchbacks, making them more comfortable. They also have more boot space than hatchbacks and you can keep your luggage out of sight of others in the covered boot. Out on the open roads, these cars ride and handle well making them fun to drive.

However, there are some drawbacks to be considered as well. Because of the extra length (due to the boot), these cars are not as easy to drive and park in crowded areas. They have low roofs which hamper ingress & egress. Many sedans ride low and have poor ground clearance.

SUV

People love SUVs for their commanding driving positions. Their large size gives them an advantage on our roads where "might is right" and other road users tend to give you way. SUVs have a lot of space on the inside, and usually also get a third row of seats. Most have four-wheel drive and high ground clearance which makes them capable off-roaders. Their large wheels and chunky tyres help them tackle bad and broken roads with ease.

On the downside, their size makes SUVs cumbersome to use in the city and because of their high floor, ingress & egress are an issue, especially for the elderly. The cars are bulky and have lower fuel efficiency. They are not very good to drive on the road either and many of them have a bouncy ride.

Crossover

Crossovers are generally just hatchbacks with more ground clearance and plastic cladding and roof rails which lend them a rugged look. Those who find SUVs too large, but still want a rugged-looking car, will find them appealing. The increase in roof height also aids ingress & egress and the higher ground clearance helps them tackle high speed-breakers and broken roads with ease.

However, very few crossovers come with all-wheel drive (let alone four-wheel drive) and that means they may not be as capable as traditional SUVs off the road and not as good to drive on the road as sedans or hatchbacks due to their taller stance. Crossovers are usually 5-seaters and rarely get a 7-seater option which makes them less practical than SUVs.

MPV / MUV

Recently, we had a thread on why MUVs / MPVs are the most competitive body style today. They come with higher seating which means a better view of the road and seating for 5-7 people. Their large size & butch styling along with commanding road presence is important in India where "might is right" on the road. They have large and powerful engines and high ground clearance which is necessary to deal with the large bumps and uneven & unpaved patches of road - a common problem in India.

However, like SUVs, the highway manners of these cars are also not as good as other body styles. Besides, many of them have a utilitarian image which may not go down well with urban buyers. Again, due to their large size, driving and parking in crowded cities will be a problem.

Sportback

A sportback is a sedan with a sloping rear end to give it a sleek and sporty look. Such cars are rare in India and appeal to those wanting some exclusivity. These cars have a liftgate rather than a boot lid. This gives one a large boot opening.

On the downside, the sloping roof restricts headroom for rear seat passengers. Low-placed seats can make ingress & egress difficult too.

Coupe

Coupes are two-door cars with a low roof. They look sporty and usually feature powerful engines. They are more driver-focused. They bring exclusivity and desirability.

On the downside, coupes are expensive and low on practicality. Low seating means ingress & egress is not easy. Some come with rear seats but the rear headroom is compromised. Coupes also have low ground clearance which means the driver has to be careful while negotiating speed breakers and potholes.

SUV Coupe

BMW first came out with this new body style with the X6, combining the high ground clearance of an SUV and the sporty looks of a coupe. Very soon other players like Mercedes-Benz, Audi and Volvo introduced similar cars. SUV Coupes have seating for four and good luggage space.

Like regular coupes, they are expensive and the rear headroom is compromised thanks to their sloping roof line. Their styling can divide opinions too. Rear visibility is poor as well.

Convertible

One of the coolest body styles out there. Convertibles are exclusive and very desirable. With very few of them on our roads, you easily stand out. The biggest plus point of a convertible is the wind in your hair feeling.

However, the cars are expensive and are generally heavier than coupes thanks to the roof mechanism and they also need extra strengthening for their chassis. Even with the modifications, many convertibles are not as sporty to drive as their coupe siblings. Convertibles can't be used regularly in dusty, hot or rainy conditions. Besides, most convertibles are suitable for two occupants rather than four.

Pickup Truck

Pickup trucks are popular in countries like the US and Australia where they are used as workhorses. Some of them have great off-road capability as well. They have seating for four and a large loading bay that can hold more cargo than any other car.

Just like MPVs, pickup trucks suffer from the utilitarian image. They are also too big for Indian cities and parking a pickup truck can be very difficult. Additionally, if the loading bay does not have a cover, the cargo in it is at risk of being stolen.

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

My picks:

• Sedans, especially fast sedans. I love European sedans (Virtus, Octavia, 5-Series, M340i, S-Class)
• SUVs: Big & tough ones like the Thar, Scorpio-N, Safari, Endeavour are really my style. Great looks + practicality.
• Crossovers: We have such great crossovers in the market today! Among the affordable ones, I love the Kia Seltos & Nexon EV.
• Coupe: Will definitely own a Mustang, 911 or F-Car one day.

Not my scene:

• MPV / MUV could never be my primary car due to the "van" styling & image. I am a sucker for vanity.
• SUV Coupe is just a way-too-confused & awkward bodystyle to my eyes.
• Convertible isn't my scene (unless it's a 4x4). I'd rather own a Cayman over a Boxster. There isn't a single sportscar I'd buy in convertible guise.
• Pickup Truck: In the USA, yes, because of models like the F150 in luxury editions. In India, it's a pointless bodystyle, although very stylish.

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

Voted for Sedan.

I still favour them over any crossover or SUV because of the generous boot space they provide and their appealing aesthetics. Plus, they handle quite nicely as well.

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

Voted for SUV Coupé

Looks Delicious

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

It’s Sedan for me for the following reasons:

• Comfortable ride
• Flickable and agile
• That proper car-like classic looks

The SUV may be good for the ingress and egress but my dad and other elders prefer my Altis to Compass since according to them they don’t feel tired in Altis even after a long ride plus their feet don’t swell in Altis since they are able to stretch their legs without bending it too much.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

After test driving the Tata Safari facelift, Mahindra Scorpio and XUV700, we also test drove the Force Cruiser.

BHPian anupam00 recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Dear BHPians,

Sharing the story of my recent buying of a truck or should I say, a bus. Yes, probably the first Citiline on Team-BHP - ownership review.

Well, my association with Team-BHP and cars has been really long - from a collection of small bay toys to a huge garage of cars from Indian brands to Italians and Germans. I have cars which were always for enthusiasts. I have a good collection of cars and would start a thread on the same very soon.

Coming back to the decision-making process for the Citiline. It all started with Tata Safari ageing and the need for a people carrier and also some time back, my son - he is currently in class 10th - started his own brand of cold drink manufacturing i.e. Wild Drink. We thought it was time we built a car for him and that is how we started our search. The cars that were considered were the new Tata Safari, Scorpio-N and XUV700. At the same time, we needed space to carry people and also enough space to have a fridge installed and carry loads of stuff like cold drink bottles.

Took a test drive of the Cruiser after a test drive of the new Safari, Scorpio and XUV700. The preference was the following because we have big Germans already in the garage.

1. Engine - Rugged
2. Maintenance- Easy
3. Electronics - Bare minimum
4. Space - Huge
5. Road Presence - Extraordinary

Since we would be doing badging of "Wild Drink Drive", it should be smooth.

So the decision of a Force Cruiser-type car was made. At the same time, the Force Cruiser came with bench seats at the last row and it came to my notice that Force has launched the Citiline. Also, read the thread of the Citiline on Team-BHP in which our GTO said - I can't be the only one out here thinking this extended MUV has the potential to look handsome. Well, the decision was made and we decided to book one and the same was done with Rohit Force in Delhi. The day of delivery came when I actually saw how this truck looked.

There were no surprises here. Our visualization and the actual were the same. We took the delivery of the Citline and asked the dealership to install the following:

1. Roof Rails
2. Windshield protection bars
3. Red Grill Horn (plan to install roots as well)

The delivery day

There were some troubles which were later addressed by the dealership well and the delivery was taken at 10 in the night, thanks to them. It was Dhanteras, so we wanted a new car at home. The car was driven some 1400 kms as per the odometer. We were told that their cars are driven from plant to dealership. Hence the km reading.

Coming to the car's look and feel, well, I was not very happy with the way the car was cleaned. Maybe they had an extra workload that day. So no worries. I took the car later to World of Service and got it washed.

The front looks similar to the Mercedes G-Wagon or should I say, it's inspired by the Mercedes G-Wagon

Coming back to the list of things that I plan to do:

1. Audio installation choices in consideration - Pioneer or Blaupunkt music system
2. Speakers - Rockford Fosgate
3. Component speakers
4. Custom wooden box for rear speaker installation
5. Pods
6. 4 channel amplifiers - maybe two of them
7. Bucket seat covers
8. 7D mats
9. Roof carrier besides roof rails
10. Alloy wheels
11. GPS and central locking
12. TPMS
13. 360 degree camera
14. Rear parking camera
15. Projector headlights
16. Projector fog lamps
17. Indicator fitring - like Gurkha
18. Roots horn with Hella horn
19. Battery cut off switch
20. Wild Drink badging
21. Snorkel
22. Remapping shall be done by World of Service
23. Cold air intake
24. Fridge in the rear
25. Rear windshield mirror
26. Changing of gear oil to fully synthetic and adding additive
27. Steering cover
28. Body cover - to get it built / buy
29. Interior lights
30. Engine bay light
31. Rear ladder

Any suggestions you all have are most welcome. I am sorry the wish list is quite a huge one. The company has left us to do a lot of things. The second way was that they could have done all that themselves. But anyway, I like doing things on my car. I'm happy to get it done myself.

The road presence is truly amazing and the space it has is simply awesome. Loads and loads can be carried comfortably

The rear stance of Citiline

More updates shall be coming as soon as I complete things.

I have driven the car 400+ km post delivery and am happy with the performance. ABS has a loose connection that we sorted out today during washing at World of Service Greater Noida. Rest of the updates are coming soon. Do let me know what all accessories you propose.

Thanks to Rupam & Naveen Sir from the Gurkha group for their suggestions and support towards making my decision of buying a Force Citiline.

The rear camera comes as stock in the Citiline

What I like

1. The space and the road presence
2. People carrier that can ferry 10 people comfortably
3. Body-on-frame construction
4. Build quality and steel used
5. Turning radius considering the size of the vehicle
6. Good lower end torque
7. Modification options are quite exhaustive
8. Ground clearance is acceptable
9. Good A/C. Rear A/C is also very effective
10. Although this vehicle is a 4X2, it's still effective on bad roads

The tall, commanding driving position makes you feel nice and also helps to manoeuvre the vehicle well. The purpose for which it is bought, it shall serve well and that is people carrier / goods carrier / Wild Drink vehicle. Above all, one thing that is huge is space, space and space!

Loads and loads of space - something that is missed in most vehicles including luxury wagons

What I hate

1. The power out of the car is less. It needs a bigger intercooler and definitely remapping. That I plan to get done in the next 30 days or so
2. The basic audio etc is missing. So one area which the company should look at improving
3. The oil and lubricants used should be of better quality - fully synthetic oil of German brand makes the vehicle smoother
4. A 6-speed transmission is required in the vehicle
5. The dashboard could have been better
6. Airbags should have been there. This feature is missing for sure
7. The engine mountings should have been hydraulic or better quality to reduce vibrations
8. 4X4 option should be given by the company
9. The features / add-ons which are present in the Gurkha could have been provided by default in the Citiline
10. The service support is something they definitely need to improve upon. If you need to sell cars in India, learn from Maruti - which is to date best example of how to products in India
11. The part quality could have been better. The cooling coil - a few Gurkha owners faced failure. That too within 3 years.

Reasons why I bought the Citiline

1. Space that the vehicle has is huge
2. No other alternative to the Citiline for the purpose that it's been bought
3. The price at which it comes
4. The road presence
5. Ability to carry loads if required. It shall be used as a Wild Drink vehicle - my son's venture which is of herbal soft drink

Currently on the stock tyres and rims. Plan to upgrade to Gurkha alloys

Things/Modifications done so far

1. Audio installation choices in consideration were Pioneer or Blaupunkt music system. Installed two systems - a single DIN system for audio and the second as a screen system for the 360 degree camera and GPS
2. Speakers: Rockford Fosgate. Went ahead with Pioneer
3. Component speakers - Rockford Fosgate
4. Custom wooden box for rear speaker installation - did not get installed
5. 4 channel amplifiers - maybe two of them - went ahead with a Pioneer amp
6. Bucket seat covers - got the same done. At a few places where I feel some more foaming shall be required, I shall get redone
7. GPS and central locking - Central locking of RD company installed
8. 360 degree camera - installed the same
9. Rear parking camera - installed the same
10. Projector headlights - after installing projector fog lamps, I am now not planning to install projector headlights
11. Projector fog lamps - installed the same and yes, they work well
12. Indicator Fit - like Gurkha - installed the same and yes, it works well
13. Roots horn with Hella horn - installed the same and yes, they work well
14. Rear windshield mirror - not required now since I have a 360 degree camera in place
15. Changing of gear oil to fully synthetic and adding additive - done

The famous FM 2.6 engine - the same is used in almost all Force cars / buses

Things yet to be done

1. Pods- yet to be done
2. Bucket seat covers - got the same done. A few places where I feel some more foaming shall be required, I shall get redone
3. 7D mats - yet to be done
4. Roof carrier besides roof rails - this is a little tricky. I shall get it done this week
5. Alloy wheels - got alloys of the Gurkha thanks to Naveen Sir. I'm in a dilemma about whether to install them or not
6. TPMS - yet to be done
7. Battery cut off switch - yet to be done
8. Wild Drink Badging - yet to be done
9. Snorkel - ordered the same. looks like it will be delayed since it's not in stock and it's dependent on the factory which is busy making the new Gurkha
10. Remapping shall be done by World of Service - to be done
11. Cold air intake - to be done
12. Fridge in the rear - to be done
13. Rear windshield mirror - not required now since I have a 360 degree camera in place
14. Steering cover - to be done
15. Body cover - to get it built / buy - to be done
16. Interior lights - to be done
17. Engine bay light - to be done
18. Rear ladder - to be installed. Got the one used in the Gurkha
19. Rear foot-step - to be installed

Any suggestions you all have are most welcome.

A few pictures of the vehicle

The front gaps of the bumper - but that is okay. We knew what we were buying and why

The left view

The right view

Your suggestions are most welcome for modifications and upgrades.

I shall update the thread with the latest pictures of the Citiline with the accessories installed and once I get the remapping done, I will give an update on the performance.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

Comfort has never been an issue for me: be it city slow moving traffic or quick empty road commute, Innova handles like butter.

BHPian sasta_rider recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Hello BHPians!

In this post, I will cover about following aspects of Innova in addition to the ownership experience already posted before:

• City Usage
• Long Drive Usage
• Do It Yourself (DIY)
• Interiors
• Number Plate Change

City Usage:

As mentioned earlier, I have been using Innova at Bengaluru for office commute, meet-up with friends and get to relative's place on weekends from Sep-2023. Before this, I had taken Innova to Bengaluru for temporary work twice: once back in Mar-2022 and then again in Jun-2023. Both the times, it was good overall.

Usage:

The distance between my location and my office's location is 6.3 km via HAL Old Airport Road. Then there is alternate roads connecting Indiranagar 100 ft. and 80 ft. road but I usually avoid this route because I will have to wait in a long queue for a U-Turn near Manipal Hospital, Old Airport Road. When I cold start the engine in the morning, I avoid sudden accelaration for initial 2 km. By mid-way of my journey, the engine temperature reaches the optimal temperature (exactly between 'C' and 'H' indicators). Evening, while coming back, I might either go to BTM layout to meet friends and have some good time with them or directly head back to my place. I have not felt any regret commuting in an Innova in a city where it is advised to prefer public transport (end-to-end connectivity is a challenge though). In addition, due to my health conditions currently, I try to avoid crowded public transport and even two wheeler for some time. Hence, Innova has come handy to my help!

Comfort has never been an issue for me: be it city slow moving traffic or quick empty road commute, Innova handles like butter. No complaints whatsoever. With my personal opinion, even parking or maneuvering Innova in the city has never been a challenge for me unlike Dad / Uncle who prefer to stick onto their 2021 WR-V or 2012 Renault Pulse respectively for any city commute.

I always have this fear of fellow commuters when stuck in back-to-back traffic: Will a two-wheeler hit? Will any autodriver scrape? Will any truck / bus from behind lose their brake? All these are unavoidable, but I make sure to keep minimum distance ahead of me for safety!

Long Drive Usage:

Whenever I get WFH (which is not pre-planned by my company), I make sudden plans and exit Bengaluru via Kengeri > Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway > Madikeri (Coorg) > Sullia > Kasaragod. This is the nearest and less time consuming option for me. The total distance comes out to be 375 km from my location at Bengaluru if taken this route. However, there are other routes as well: Old Madras Road > Goraguntepalya > Nelamangala > Hassan > Shiradi Ghat > Nelyadi > Puthur > Kasaragod but since the condition of highway near Hassan is not acceptable since years, I never wished to opt for this route but planning to try some day.

Apart from this 'work-hometown-work' long drive, long drive trips with friends, colleagues or even cousins has happened before. In the past one month, I have done Bengaluru-Nandi Hills commute twice, only to enjoy the weekend drive as I was lazy to stay inside home. Enjoyed every bit of such short highway (long?) drives: maintain 2500-2600 RPM crusing at 90-100 kmph with the growl of D-4D diesel engine unless some reckless driver decides to cut me in between!

Yesterday (24-Oct-2023), I had this sudden plan to travel to Kasaragod due to WFH plans. Left Bengaluru at around 03:30 PM via Kengeri. It took 50 minutes for me from Indiranagar to Kengeri. From here, for the first time, I controlled my inner monster from revving the engine to all its glory only to check how much fuel economy this 2498 cc diesel engine can provide after 12 years and 222000 km. However, at times in between, I got this urge to hit the pedal and enjoy the cruise! When the Mysuru-Hunsur junction arrived, I realised that today will be a hectic day with traffic due to the Dussehra celebration that was in place.

I exit Mysuru and headed towards Madikeri, not knowing about the situation there. Everything was going good: sun already had set and it had become dark already by the time I exit Mysuru. All thanks to the recent upgrade to the headlight wiring kit which was done at a nearby FNG mechanic who used to work in Toyota, Kasaragod. Before reaching Madikeri City Junction, I could witness some queue of vehicles which I assumed to be due to accident. But I was wrong: my poor brain realised late that it was Dussehra. Upon checking with a nearby police constable, he said that it will not be possible to proceed ahead towards Sullia, due to the procession and celebration. I was advised to take the same route back towards Mysuru till Suntikoppa, from where I should connect to Chettalli and this route will drop me outside Madikeri City without touching the main city center. Upon reaching Sullia at around 11:45 PM, I filled my tank up-to auto cut-off from a Nayara Fuels. I have this mental affinity towards their fuel due to the reason that I get 'better' fuel economy compared to other outlet diesel fuel! I have started to include the fuel logs into the 'Fuelio' app, and to my surprise, I got a 'good' fuel economy of 11.50 kmpl which is quite decent for this aged and old Innova!

So, highway drives are always welcomed by myself: be it planned or sudden get-aways!

Do It Yourself (DIY):

In Short: Painting the Drum Brake Covers

Last month I was at hometown, and was feeling bored one fine Sunday. At Kasaragod (any coastal region for that matter), the time it takes for rust and fungus to form is minimal. I had this guilty trip to Muzhappilangad (Drive-In) Beach, Kannur back in 2019 which I regret today. I was not aware that the biggest enemy of any metal, rust, can cause expensive damage(s)! Due to my 'enthusiastic' drive, drifts and water-splash moments, rust had started to appear inside the bonnet area, near to windshields, parts around engine which are mainly made of metal and obviously, the lower body of the vehicle after one week. Another mistake I did was, not wash the vehicle well after coming back to home. I should have done that, and the chances of excessive rust could have been avoided. Now, coming back to the DIY.

The wheel alignment was on due, so I removed rear right wheel using the stock stepney jack kit. I had two sets of automobile spray paints (one set white which will be my base coat, followed by one set jet black, which will be my final coat). I have a hand-held drilling machine as well. Now, one missing part was the metal brush, which was somehow arranged on a Sunday from nearby tools shop whom I know.

The metal brush was inserted inside the drilling machine where we usually keep the drill bit tightened, as shown below:

I had ensured the metal brush was secured tight, to avoid any damage to self.

Using this, I scraped all the rust that was accumulated. Let pictures do the speaking:

Before rust removal.

After Rust Removal followed by two layers of spray paint (one base coat and one final coat)

The time between each coat was around 30 mins, and the covers were kept under the sun for drying. Once completely dried up, I put back the drum brake covering, followed by placing the wheels and securely tightening the wheel nuts.

First DIY on the Innova, which I was not confident enough would work, was a small success! It felt so good giving this care and looking forward to more such cost-cutting DIY which will not pose any harm for the vehicle / passengers as such.

Interiors:

Below is the image from the cockpit - driver side POV:

At the time this image was clicked, the ODO reading was somewhere close to reach the '222222' km. But could not capture this beautiful moment due to obvious reasons, hence the above image taken on Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway when I was the only one on the empty roads!

When the vehicle was delivered back in 2011, the car was taken to a popular car accessories shop nearby. Following work was done which still does its job pretty well:

• Sony Xplod Music Stereo. This was a pretty decent audio system available back the within our budget. Till date, I do not feel like shifting to a touchscreen infotainment system (which for me is distracting and I love certain things old school way).
• Set of Pioneer Speakers just near the 'A' pillars and below the roof, for better audio quality.
• Floor carpet (this was replaced with new one again in 2017 due to wear and tear).
• Seat covers matching the 'Light Metallic Blue' color of the body frame.
• Fog lamps and its enable/disable button from Toyota.
• Steering cover, which is of pretty good quality and provides good grip & feel for single-handed drivers like me. The existing one seen in pic above was put in place on Mar-2019.

Currently, there are some cluttering noise coming from various sources:

Front and Middle Row Seat Tracks.

Power Window of Driver side has some issue when the windows are partially lowered at some points.

The double sided tape of the passenger side window rain guard has become lose, which rattles on high speeds that is distracting. A simple DIY should fix this.

Number Plate Change:

The previous number plates were just the punched ones which were in place since years, had a lot of scratches which can attract 'challan' under any AI driven cameras being implemented across India. So, to avoid any unnnecessary contribution towards the Motor Vehicle Department, I approached a good car acessory shop near to 80 ft Road, Indiranagar to enquire about the HSRP number plates, which has been made mandatory in Karnataka for vehicles older than year 2019. However, he advised me that the discussion on HSRP is still in the pipeline and I need not worry at present, but instead can go for the standardised 'punched' number plates with 'IND' marking. He showed me some samples, I agreed for the one with blue stripe on the left and got the current plates replaced the next day for INR 800/-. I felt the price nominal too.

Finally, my short-term OCD was fulfilled, and Innova is getting its much required pampering and care that was missing when it was 'rotting' at home with less usage!

After the last periodic service in Aug-2023, the vehicle has clocked ~3500 km so far which included city only, highway only and both types of runs. Will keep you all updated in this thread on more such DIY, service updates and if any restoration work is done.

Drive Safe!

Sud.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

The first and middle row seating felt a little lower than the Crysta; the third row is better than the Crysta.

BHPian libranof1987 recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Just had a detailed look at the Hycross at a Pune showroom. Here are my observations:

• The styling is pretty contemporary, however, do watch out for how high the hood is.
• The feature list is very 2022/2023; there's nothing you'll miss, esp in the ZX(O). Barring ventilated seats, 360 deg camera and ADAS, even the ZX has pretty much the same kit for ~ 1 lakh less.
• The Ottoman seats: They're a party trick and I feel they're going to be just that. I don't see real-world application. Even with the front seat at the forward most position, you need to be in the lower 5' bracket to have your feet comfortably up.
• In the upright position, the leg support is ideal for kids; most adults are going to find it very uncomfortable, given the width available.
• The first and middle row seating felt a little lower than the Crysta; the third row is better than the Crysta. The slight but noticeable lower seating on the middle row makes its presence felt given that you can't extend your feet, given the battery pack placed below the front seats.

Now the big question of quality:

The drop in quality is noticeable; eg. in the a/c, or the window controls. Is it worth cancelling your booking. Maybe not. Is it a dealbreaker in a 35 lakh car. Maybe not.

But where it is more prominent - small things. Eg.

• The ORVM auto-fold wasn't smooth and on one plane; it was clear that there was minute vertical play in the mechanism. Observed this with both display vehicles.
• The hand rest for the middle row captain seats behave funny; they don't lock in one position consistently. Sometimes they lock right at the bottom, sometimes on top, and move freely in the 90 deg position. Again, observed this with both display vehicles.
• The second row is on sliders (i.e. not on hooks), and even that locks only specific points. This becomes a problem when you want the seat to be at the forward most, while ingress/egress. You want to be able to hold it but the damn thing slides! Again, observed this with both display vehicles.

Given that the second row doesn't tumble, ingress/egress is a slight challenge since the available space has reduced.

*This is open to personal discretion but the steering controls don't have a strong tactile feeling to them; the buttons are in a very awkward territory between touch / press-button type. These put me off the most.

That the third row goes flat, and becomes flush with the boot will make carrying cargo extremely easy, for those that don't intend to use the third row too often.

Toyota could have used nice LED lamps throughout the cabin, esp. focussed reading lamps. Instead, you have the same lamps as you do in the Crysta.

* Lastly, the steering is VERY light. Not sure if this is a + or -.

That's about all for now. The biggest point is the drive/ride quality; will have to wait 7-10 days for that.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

The fuel efficiency has surprised me despite my idling the car every 2-3 days for 5-10 minutes to keep the battery charged in the cold winters of Manali.

BHPian AdityaDeane recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Recently Saffira has been surprising me with her mileage! And this is despite my idling the car every 2-3 days for 5-10 minutes to keep the battery charged in the cold winters of Manali.

No new niggles to report, the Check Engine light and warnings are still present, but the car still did a trip from Manali to Solan and back to Manali last weekend without any problems or issues.

Overall I'm happy with my purchase. Next week we will be driving from Manali to Dehradun with 5 adults and 2 kids on board. Hoping for a trouble free ride.

By the way, my HSRPs have been fitted on the car, and I have successfully been able to install the roof carrier from my Triber on to the Aria. Getting all ready for the family drive coming up next week, where I will need to drive through Haryana and Uttarakhand to reach my hometown. Will keep you all updated with any developments as they happen.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information

I want to keep my house to a single car household. So consider this car for all type of use.

BHPian kmadhok recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Background:

I currently own a pre-owned VW Vento 2011 Highline AT. This was our first AT car purchase (and our first pre-owned), and was when I was in Mumbai travelling from Chandivali to Malad each day for work. I had had enough of using the clutch on the Alto and wanted to move over to AT. Influence from my brother-in-law and team-bhp I started scouting for a pre-owned car. Finally settled on, VW Vento 2011 AT, which we bought from a Toyota U-Trust dealer. The car was 1 year old when we bought it in end 2012, had already done 24K Kms and the first owner was VW Company. I was told was used by executives, though lately I have been wondering if it were a test-drive vehicle. Anyhoo, it served and continues to serve me well. I have since moved to Bangalore, and paid the road tax here as well, not re-registered it though. Haven't done loooong road trips on it, but have used it for trips upto which are 600kms one way. For longer trips (or trips where we have a full load 3 adults and 2 children) I prefer to have a more spacious car for which I rent from Revv/ Zoom. Gives me an opportunity to try out other cars as well.

Last Christmas, a last minute train cancellation meant we had to do a Bangalore - Chennai trip using the VW (no rentals available) with full load. As a driver the drive was enjoyable, cant speak for the passengers. I am most comfortable with the car and my driving style.

Experience with the VW:

The car just crossed the 66,666 Kms mark. So have done approximately, 42000kms in the 9 years I have owned it. Significantly dropped since I moved to Bangalore because, when I moved I had an option to choose where I stayed, and in Bangalore you stay close to work. I proudly cycle into office. The car has given me no trouble whatsoever. Only once, did the ignition coil need to be replaced. When that happened I took it to the VW service center, where they desired to change the entire internals of the car, which I politely refused. My FNG, Automechs Koramangala, picked from team-bhp directory has been my go to point. He simply said if you feel it drives well and nothing feels wrong then nothing is wrong. He was right. I used him for my regular oil changes etc. (which also I do probably once in a couple of years) and before I use the car for a long trip.

The car feels butter smooth (knock on wood!!). Just love to get it into 6th and then with a light foot keep it there. The car feels well built, and the car's boot is spacious.

Desire to change:

• I have had the 'urge' and desire to change for a while now. I have probably posted in the forum earlier to seek advice, but did not action on it. Till now it has been a want to change rather than a need.
• Couple of reasons for the urge getting stronger:
• Father is getting older, and getting in and out of the sedan seems to be getting more troublesome. This is the strongest reason. Others are additional excuses.
• Kids are getting older, though still 8 years from becoming adults legally. As a driver this doesnt bother me, but I imagine as passengers folks would like if the car is more spacious.
• I am getting older.
• VW Vento is getting older - the last I check I was offered 1.5Lakhs in Bangalore in 2019 (it is still MH registered). No major niggles. But may have to invest about 1L to get some bodywork sorted out.
• Fully loaded, with passengers, the car needs to be handled with utmost care. Else the bottom of the car scrapes the speed breakers and some time even when getting on or off a slightly steep incline.

Driving behavior:

I am a sedate driver. Not an enthusiast. I love to not use the brake. Prefer to lift the foot off the accelerator pedal and use engine braking to slow down well ahead. I rarely go beyond 100 kmph on highways even if the car can. I feel, anything faster does not give me enough time to react. This is not a take on the capability of the car, but my own capability. And I truly don't think we save as much time going any faster. I do not care about 0-100, gear shift ratios. I use the car as a tool to get from point A to point B. Don't remember when was the last time I went out just for a drive to enjoy the car itself. Having said that, when I am getting from point A to point B I would love getting there in comfort.

Needs are simple:

• Easy to get in and get out for old folks. Essentially high seating. - Will help my father get in and out without much effort.
• Automatic: In the rare occasions I do take out the car, I am sure the rest of the city will want to take theirs out on the same day. I prefer to exercise my knees by cycling rather than using the clutch.
• Rear AC vent: This one comes from my wife. Our VW comes with it and now we cannot live without it.
• No longer than 2 months waiting period. I have been considering an upgrade for a while, and now it has got serious. So serious that its playing on my mind. I am ok with suggestions for therapies to get my focus of it.

So I am thinking SUV, or MUV.

Want:

• Equally good boot space as the VW Vento.
• If pre-owned not more than 2 years old.
• Preferably TATA / Mahindra - Will make me feel patriotic, and I believe they made proper SUVs.

While money is not a concern (thank you god! and knock on wood!) I cannot digest an expense of upward of 20L on a car. Especially when cheaper options are around. Though I am trying to come to terms with the fact I may have to.

I want to keep my house to a single car household. So consider this car for all type of use. Given our usage pattern, we do not warrant 2 cars. We are also dead against 2-wheelers for safety reasons. So this car will need to do all duties. The VW may not go out immediately, however its usage will reduce and not make sense to keep long. Will also let me psychologically offset the price of the new car. (Blatant advertising: Anyone from Bangalore moving to Mumbai and looking for pre-owned car can reach out to me).

The car will primarily driven by me, occasionally by father and wife, and eventually by son and daughter.

Options considered:

Truly speaking, nothing is off the table. Well not nothing. But from an S-Presso to a new Innova Crysta everything has crossed my mind. I will talk about what we have seriously considered and/or test driven.

CSUV: The entire segment, have test driven the Venue, Magnite, Brezza but dont think they offer adequate space. Considering we plan to keep this car for 10 years (unless something changes drastically), kids will be proper adults then, and we will need more space. And I think cars in this segment offer lesser space than the VW Vento.

Duster CVT: We test drove it a couple of years back when it was still available. Reading reviews here it seemed a good car, and spacious as well. But was rejected for not having a rear A/C vent. I even have used Duster CVTs shortlisted on Cars24, but keep scrolling past them.

Renault Triber CVT: Visited the showroom when it was launched. Felt like a downgrade from the VW Vento.

Tata Hexa XTA: Again based of the enthusiasts feedback on the forum considered this. Test drove one, no complaints (I am a man of limited needs), however some body work etc indicated that was not the right piece to buy. Now there are a few available, but difficult to get one with the extended warranty on it.

Creta/Seltos: Test drove it a couple of years back. Wife feels back is not as spacious as the VW Vento. Right now, the popularity of the cars just puts me off the looks. The value proposition of these cars is difficult to digest. Hyundia's in my opinion are more gimmicky than other cars and charge a premium for it.

Taigun/Kushaq: I would consider them part of the C-SUV segment. However, I have looked at them not test driven. My reasoning, the seat height does not seem to be much different from a sedan. I feel they are not as much a VFM proposition as some others in the list. Note I am looking only at ATs.

Carens: Booked a diesel AT on the 16th February, simply to avoid the DCT. Expected delivery in May. Overall happy with the car, but with the recent price increase I am all but certain to cancel. I would either plonk another couple of lakhs and get a Innova Crysta or save money and get an Ertiga/XL6.

Ertiga/XL6: We would have bought either of these a couple of years back. The only reason I held back was the 4 speed AT. After coming from a VW 6 speed AT I could not imagine going to a 4 speed one. I have a booking on the XL6 as well with an understanding that it will be for the upgraded model. Now, we dont need a 6/7 seater, but when we weigh the value proposition with something like a Creta/Seltos this seems more VFM. The updated XL6 is currently a strong contender. The only thing going against it is build quality compared to VW.

Innova Crysta G petrol AT: Dad said he had wanted to have a car like the Innova, but mom (she is no longer with us). Potentially an unfulfilled wish of his. Have considered a pre-owned 2018 7-str, older than our preferred range. While overall the car was ok, I felt there was a constant sound from the silencer coming into the cabin. I was seated in the middle row at the time. There is no Petrol AT available for test drive, so dont know if the sound is acceptable. I would prefer a 8-str. We are 5 on majority of drives. With 7-str one will always be seated in the last seat. Good for long road trips where one can sleep at the back seat should the need be. We found this very useful when we rented an Innova for our trip to Kerala which had a 8hr and 12hr drive as a stretch.

Almost booked a new petrol AT, but wife does not seem so keen as she feels it is a large car. Have to be really sure of it before we book one, because the booking amount of Rs 50K is non refundable. The price is the biggest factor holding us back here.

Tata Harrier XZA+: From the used car market. Found a couple. One of them in mfg 2020 but registered Jan 2022, and already done about 30K kms. Though looks well maintained save the front tyres. Did a quick check on Vahan cursory checks on mfg date and registration date look ok. Is a single owner. Felt odd the car is registered in 2022, and so quickly done 30K kms. If anyone has suggestions on additional checks I can do I am all ears.

The second is mfg and registered in 2020 done 23Kms, but looks more dusty , less shiny and the interiors also have some dirt marks, which can be as a result of kids using the sunroof or playing around. Will need a thorough detailing. This is slightly costlier. No online checks done.

I test drove both. The first thought when I got into the Harrier was it is huge, but once I started driving it felt very easy and nimble. Brake pedal felt soft, had to really press it hard to get the car to stop. Overall eventually I liked it.

Compared to the XL6 it will be easier to get into this.

Newer car, and top end variant feature are tilting the scale towards the Harrier compared to the Innova, which is the base variant. Most significant differences:

• Harrier 6 air bags vs 2 in Innova Crysta.
• 2 years old vs 4 years old.
• Auto climate control missing in Crysta with my VW Vento has.

Wife at this time has given up on choosing the car, since additional constraints are limiting what we can choose. So she hasn't driven either the Innova or the Harrier.

XUV500 - Yes 500 not 700. A pre-owned. Not test driven yet. Wife is not for looks, but we will need to compromise on the looks should need be.

I would think in the above list, the XL6 and the Harrier are top contenders right now, with me tending towards the Harrier out of complete personal preference, listening to the heart.

Not sure if I have a question for the forum, potentially just writing this down helped getting my thoughts organized. However, happy to hear what folks would suggest.

PS: As a side note I think reviewers should be including a ground to seat height measurement when reviewing. Would make my filtering so much easier.

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

Good research and specific needs, this is the way to go.

Now your timing might not be the best since the rumours/news of Harrier/Safari being modified to be GNCAP tested is hot and so is the 6 speed TC for MSIL cars starting with the Brezza which would make its way into the XL6 and the S-Cross.

Anyways I would only say that if getting a TML car like the Harrier, get it new since issues keep getting fixed plus the benefits of warranties. If there is a new model expected, do wait for that, this is a learning from how the Harrier has evolved from its first iteration.

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

You're the perfect candidate for a top end Crysta. All you care about is getting from point A to point B in absolute comfort.

If you can stretch your budget, go and get it. Durability and reliability is a standard feature and you can keep it for years together. Plus you'll get a great resale value because Innovas hardly depreciate.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

In India, manufacturers like Toyota and Maruti are currently dominating the MUV segment with the Innova and Ertiga respectively; while Renault, Honda, Mahindra and others are stiffening the competition. Then there is the Enjoy, an inoffensive people-carrier from the Chevrolet stable. Launched in 2013, the car got a lukewarm response from the Indian market and now, Chevrolet seem to be giving it some premium additions to make it a more appealing proposition.

The interiors of the Enjoy have been spied this time around. The most prominent change is the Cruze-inspired steering wheel with silver accents and mounted controls. The central console on the dashboard features piano black with chrome touches around the air-con vents. The gear lever too appears more upmarket and the lever too has chrome and piano black finish.

Gaadi also claims that the Enjoy gets some exterior changes too which include blackened B and C pillars and a new chrome number plate garnish.

The Enjoy is currently available with a 1.4 litre petrol and a 1.3 litre diesel engine available in 7 and 8-seater configurations, priced between Rs. 6.11 - Rs. 8.63 lakhs ex-showroom Delhi; with the Spin MPV likely to be launched in 2016 (link to news article).

In the market for utility vehicles in India, Tata Motors has been losing ground to its chief rival, Mahindra. The company is now planning a fightback and intends to launch six utility vehicles over the next 3-4 years. The range will include compact urban SUVs, rugged MUVs for rural markets and premium crossovers.

The first model to be launched will be the Hexa crossover (click here to read about the Hexa). It is expected to hit showrooms in the first half of 2016. It will be pitted against the Mahindra XUV500.

The Hexa will be followed by a compact SUV based on the Nexon concept, which Tata showcased at the 2014 Auto Expo. This car will be less than four metres in length and feature a 5-seater interior. This vehicle is scheduled to be launched in the festive season of 2016 and will take on the Ford EcoSport and the upcoming Mahindra S101.

The third product in the line-up will be the Raptor (next-gen Sumo), a rugged utility vehicle which will target a rural audience. This will be Tata's rival for the Bolero. It is expected to be launched in late 2016. Click here to read about the next-gen Sumo

Tata Motors is also building two premium SUVs with inputs from Jaguar Land Rover, its British subsidiary. These vehicles, codenamed Q501 and Q502, are expected to be introduced in the second half of 2017. Click here to read about the Q501 & Q502

The company is also considering two more SUVs - one a 7-seater SUV on the X1 platform (codenamed X107) and the other a 9-seater based on the X6 platform, codenamed X602.

Tata Motors has the Aria, Safari and Sumo in the utility vehicle segment. All these products have been trailing their rivals from Mahindra by large margins. With the new utility vehicles, Tata Motors will try to regain some of the ground it has lost over the year.

Source: Economic Times

2014 has proven to be a great year for motoring enthusiasts. While many believed the year's highlight would be the Delhi auto expo, manufacturers kept the excitement going through the months that followed. 2014 also proved to be a good year for car makers. From the interim budget's reduction in excise duty to the industry finally exiting a long slump, this year has been positive.

However, the Indian automotive industry is still on an upward trajectory and that means one thing - More launches, more updates and yes, even more brands. The year 2015 has a lot of launches in store for India. Here's a look at the machines that are expected to make the cut. Some are speculated while others are confirmed.

Hatchbacks

Tata Nano Twist Active
Tata Kite
Tata Bolt
Maruti Suzuki Wagon R Stingray AMT
Maruti Suzuki Celerio diesel
Ford Figo
Maruti Suzuki YRA
Hyundai Elite i20 Cross
Honda Jazz
Maruti Suzuki SX4 S-Cross
Volvo V40 hatchback
Abarth 500
MINI Cooper S

Sedans

Maruti Suzuki Dzire facelift
Ford Figo sedan
Mahindra Verito EV
Hyundai Verna facelift
Volkswagen Jetta facelift
Volkswagen Passat
Toyota Camry facelift
Honda Accord

SUVs

Mahindra S101
Maruti Suzuki YBA
Mahindra U301
Mahindra Quanto AMT
Ford EcoSport facelift
Renault Duster facelift
Tata Safari Storme facelift
Hyundai ix25
Mahindra Scorpio Automatic
Mahindra XUV facelift
Ford Endeavour
Toyota Fortuner new variants
Nissan X-Trail
2 new Mitsubishi SUVs
Honda CR-V diesel
Jeep Wrangler & Grand Cherokee
Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe
BMW X6 facelift
Volvo XC 90
Audi Q7

MUVs

Datsun GO+
Maruti Suzuki Ertiga facelift
Renault Lodgy

Luxury/Premium Cars

DC Avanti
Mercedes Benz CLA-Class
BMW 3-Series facelift
Mercedes Benz C-Class diesel
Audi A6
Hyundai Genesis
Audi TT
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet
BMW i8
Mercedes AMG GT

Maruti will export Petrol engines for Mazda'a badge engineered version of the Ertiga MPV, called VX-1 according to report in the Economic Times.

The Mazda VX-1 MPV has just gone on sale in Indonesia. Maruti already exports the Ertiga in completely-knocked down (CKD) kit form to Suzuki Indonesia.

The deal would allow Maruti to better utilise spare engine production capacity at its plants, with demand having been skewed towards Diesel engines. According to the report, Maruti is supplying in excess of 50,000 CKD kits of the Ertiga annually to Suzuki Indonesia.

It is possible that other improvements could be made by Maruti for the VX-1 (If requested for by Mazda). 

Maruti already manufactures its A-Star for Nissan Motors, which sells the little hatchback as the Nissan Pixo in Europe. The Pixo is manufactured at Maruti's Manesar plant and comes with better interiors and keyless engine start (For improved fuel efficiency in urban conditions). The engine that Maruti supplies for the Pixo is also reworked for improved fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions.

Maruti received orders for 10,000 units of the Pixo from Suzuki Motor Corporation last year, to be supplied to Nissan.