My first long drive in Verito D4 in very bad weather

I got my new car on 7th of July 2011 and next day I drove it from Shimla to Yamunanagar (a total distance of 215 kilometers) in very bad weather. The rain was falling and the National Highway was slippery. Out of 215 Kms, 90 Kms track is in the hills. At many places the road was not good and I had to suffer traffic jam at Kalka, Pinjaur and Panchkula. Same happened on my return journey. Heavy rains and traffic jams. yet Verito, in its maiden run gave 20.9 Kms per litre, which is really very good, keeping in view that the car is new and has done less thna 500 Kms. With first and second service, the car will give more thna 23 Kms per litres. This is what I feel. In good weather one can expect even more provided one drives this car with love and affection.

Exterior

The new Verito has good looks from outside though it is a metter of personal perception and attitude. People may find the car still like Logan and not very dashing from outside (box shape etc.). Yet I feel that Verito, with small modifications, has an improved look. It seems to be a seasoned person's car, not for young people. Looks are deceiving and performance should the criterion.

Interior (Features, Space & Comfort)

  As I stated elsewhere in my previous review, cabin space is adequate. In many cars of this segment, space in the back is not adequate with the result that three healthy persons can not sit comfortably. I test drove Lienia and other cars and found  back space somewhat cramped. The car is wider than even the Manza. Three persons can sit comfortably in the back with ample leg room. Front seats are also quite wide and comfortable for long drives.  There are some controls which are placed at odd places, but I feel that one gets used to them very soon. The indicators are placed on the left and it may take time to get used to them.


Quality of plastic, fabric etc. is good keeping in view the price of the car. One can not expect top end material in a car of this price range. Yet interior is pragmatic and should be OK with most of the buyers.

Engine Performance, Fuel Economy and Gearbox

 As I wrote in my earlier review, the best part of the car is its engine and the power that it emits. Even though the diesel engine produces less power than manza, yet there was no lag in acceleraion and torque. But at times in heavy traffic, I was having a bit of trouble to move the car. But this is expected. In hills, torque is more important than power and Verito does the job appreciably. The gears are smooth. The brake padel is a bit hard (wooden feel it gives). But the engineer told me that it will become somewhat soft after some use.

I wish mahindra people do something to increase the power by a few PS.


Fuel economy is very good. Mahindra cars have lived up to their claims. Though I could not test the car for long duration, but what other users have told me the fuel efficiency is more than expected. I will get my car in a few days and I am going on a very long trip the same day testing the car in all sort of conditions. After that I will again write this review.

Ride Quality & Handling

  Now after driving the car for about 450 Kms in one go, I will say that handling of car was exceptionally good. Ride quality was fine and I did not feel tired at all. The steering is smooth and respsnsive. First time buyers should be careful with steering as it is very responsive. I did not get the feeling that I was driving a bigger car.

Final Words

I will definitely recomend this car even if one finds its exteriors not very trendy.  At this price point, one can not expect feature of very high end cars. But this car has all those features which are needed by a common user. Go for this car without a second thought. I said elsewhere that as a good looking girl may not be a good wife, so a very good looking car may not be the best option. Incidently, my mechanic in Yamunanagar approved this car and the car got looks of appreciation from many people walkingon the road.

Areas of improvement

  Boot lid needs some more improvement for better looks. Audio system is needed in almost all the varients.

 

Good mileage, driving comfort, adequate power and good brakessA bit of lag but this happens in diesel cars