Great MUV with excellent value for money and driving pleasure.

The selection of a car has become complicated with the launches of various new models and variants.Having used to a Maruti (800,Esteem,Wagon R) for a long time it was kind of uneasy to look elsewhere.SX4 of Maruti felt good but they do not offer a diesel engine yet.

I value economy and reliability apart from ride and handling as key factors in selecting a car.Fiesta and Verna were good but not impressive considering the prices as well for top end models.I could not even get to see an Aveo,let alone test drive!An MUV was not even in my thoughts as I regarded them as bulky and unwieldy.A Mahindra FC person suggested a test drive of Xylo during a debate about used cars.

The test drive via Triplicane,Mount Road, beach Road was thrilling.The car handled like a sedan. The seating,view,steering,drive,turning etc were superb.My biggest apprehension of driving through crowded city roads vanished all at once! The car seemed majestic with the front grille reminiscent of the Jeep legacy.Though the price of E2 was attractive I opted for the extra safety of the ABS E8 version.Even at Rs.9 laks Xylo is a winner with top models of Innova costing 2-3 laks more.Whether clocking highway miles or hitting out with pot holed roads in Cities the car would come out winner. The ample space inside and the plush seating could give you the comfort of your drawing room.

Several years back, when driving around with German colleagues they used to tease me to show cars designed and made by Indians.I am proud to offer them a drive today should they get back here again!

My impressions are based on only about 1300+km drive within Chennai city limits.The mileage is about 10km average.I am surprised why M&M is not offering 4WD as they have sold 4WD jeeps in sub 5 lak prices.

Good handling,Spacious interiors,Luxury seating,SUV/Jeep styled,Value for moneyMileage could be better,so are the interior plastics,4WD option not available