A gamble that paid off well..

2020 has been a year of unpredictably. Pandemic has caused lockdowns and uncertainty. However as India figures out a way forward, so do we. The search started for a destrier for my wife to commute daily to the office which is around 35 kms drive to and from- 5 days week in moderate city traffic conditions. And her choice was automatic. She does drive our primary Manual occasionally but hates the clutch and gear system. She was specific about the size, transmission and the budget, which primarily left me with only 2 options. You guessed it right 1. Maruti espresso 2. Renault Kwid After doing extensive research we narrowed down on the 'Kwid'. Actually - she had made her choice already on the basis of the most important factor for her- "looks". Yes. The car looks stunning. I can't find a better-looking entry hatch at that price. And with that new colour - Zanskar Blue, it was a sure deal closer. So we booked it, and got the delivery in 10 days. Benchmark Motors kept the delivery promise and yes, full marks to them for that. And now, the drive. I took the delivery as only 1 person is allowed as per the new normal. I drove it to my wife's office, a good 18 to 20km, and all the videos and reviews were now in the live experience. My first experience in an AMT after driving a manual for 20 years was a breeze. The only challenge was with my left foot and left hand that kept searching for a clutch and gearshift. It takes a while to get used to it, but yes, its convenience redefined. This is a mid variant mode and best value for your money- but you don't need the bells and whistles if this is your second car with a sole purpose of reaching office and back home. Surprising part- my wife drove back home with a confidence of a pro in her first attempt. Not once did her left had to go searching for the gearshift. The sheet metal is also sturdy, unlike the Maruti, doors are heavy and have the prominent thud while closing. You do not feel stressed after sitting inside for 2 to 3 hours - that was a personal experience from day 1. So if you want a ride thats meant for city ride or if you are a newbie, you can safely place your bets on the Kwid AMT, Will share more after 1st service, but for now, we are quippy with our new destrier.