Superb entry-level sedan from Toyota

 

Exterior Well-proportioned car with excellent paint-work. Looks pleasing from every angle. But definitely not a stunner like the City / Linea due to somewhat outdated styling & Loganesque rear profile. However, looks better than its main competition i.e. D'zire & Manza.

 

Interior (Features, Space & Comfort) Interiors are not plush but are acceptable for the segment. The fit and finish is good and makes for a neat apearance. Good seat covers are a must in this car and improve the interior aesthetics substantially. Car is poor in features with long missing equipment list even on the top end model - e.g. seat height adjust, electric rear view mirrors, centre cabin light, door auto lock to name a few. At the same time, Toyota has provided a few thoughtful features like cooled glovebox and plenty of bottle-holders. Space is aplenty, be it in cabin or boot. Seats are surprisingly very comfortable, though not soft and cushiony. AC is effective. Single wiper works quite well and centre meter console does not pose any problem. All-round visibility is excellent.

 

Engine Performance, Fuel Economy and Gearbox Engine is a bit noisy during the run-in period. I test-drove a car at show-room which had done 3500+ km and felt more refined and silent. I also read in a few reports that noise level comes down after about 2k run. Engine performance is amazing otherwise as it never loses breath. Pickup is great, Gearshift is smooth. Short and smooth clutch is a delight. FE not yet checked.

 

Ride Quality & Handling Taut suspensions result in a slightly bumpy ride at low speeds but ensures superb ride on highways. Handling is quite good with the car feeling steady even at 100+ kmph. Adequate ground clearance offers peach of mind. Electric power steering is light and precise, but lacks in feedback.

 

Final Words One of the most distinguishing feature for me in this sedan is effortless driving experience, the best for a sub-10 Lakh car, as I had also considered City and SX4 among other cars. It also offers great engine performance, plenty of space, excellent ride quality and decent handling. Keeping in mind the price, and the Toyota assurance of long-term reliability, the car is an absolute Value for Money.

 

Areas of improvement Providing essential features like electric-ORVM & centre cabin lights, Reduction in cabin NVH levels - especially the road noise.

 

Effortless driving, Toyota reliability promise, Good dynamics, thought ful featuresMissing features