2 months ownership review - Very Satisfied

 

Hi guys, this is my two months ownership review of Etios Sedan VX model (petrol). So far I have driven about 1700 km and overall I am quite satisfied till now. Ive finally taken the time out to write it, hope it helps.

Exterior Quite pleasant to look at from most angles, except the back which I feel is under-designed. Admittedly not as stylish as the current Honda City or new Verna, but definietely a decent looking car, far better than Swift Dzire or even SX4 and Vento. Actually it falls within Toyota's comfort zone fo safe looking vehicles, not radical or very stylish but nothing really to complain about either. Colors are also nice. I jad no trouble getting used to it, unlike Dzire which, even after all these years, looks like an overgrown box to me. Another thing I like is that the rear end does not protude too much, which makes reversing and parking very easy.

Interior (Features, Space & Comfort) Positives - The space inside is just superb, especially in the rear seat. Even at a height of six foot one inch I can sit very very comfortably in the rear seat, with the drivers seat pushed fully back. Seating three people in the rear is a breeze. Boot space is awesome. Seats are fairly comfortable and the AC is incredibly effective. Drivers position is very good, with an excellent road view and very good rear view also. AC vents are very well placed, they are effective in cooling the rear quite well. Essential safety features are present so thats good.

Cons - Some features are missing, like electronically adjusted ORVM, and rear seat overhead light. Also, interiors plastics quality is somewhat below par, though putting in the wooden dash does make it look brighter and better. Toyota could also have provided two speakers at the rear, instead of all four in the front. But these are things I have got used to, I can ignore it at this price point. Overall a very decent package for a family sedan.

Engine Performance, Fuel Economy and Gearbox Positives - Good strong engine, feels very reliable and consistent, good power. Toyota seems to be living up to its reputation here. Of course not as zippy as some other cars, but quite good especially for city driving. Pick up is decent, and it cruises very well. Gears are very smooth and easy to change. Cons - There is definitely some engine noise while starting the car and at low speeds. Dont know why this happens, but I was told at the service station that it happens in all Etios cars so not unique to mine. Also, there is definitely some vibration felt in the cabin when the engine is turned on and car is idling, eg. at red lights. This was quite pronounced before the first service. I complained about it and they told me there is some circular from Toyota on this issue and engine RPMs will be adjusted to deal with it. After service it is definitely less noticeable but still there. Again I am told this is common to all Etios cars. Surprising, really, why this should happen. However, vibration is mostly in the cabin frame, and does not come through the gear shaft or steering wheel.

Fuel economy is not as great as claimed. Average is between 11 and 12. The best I have managed in Delhi (after first service) is around 12.5 kmpl (with AC), which is all right for an engine of this size but I feel could have been better. Maybe in winter, without AC it will be better still. Havent taken it on a long highway drive yet so cannot comment on that. 

Ride Quality & Handling Steering is very light and very easy in traffic. Drive feels mostly butter smooth and effortless. Long drives are a pleasure, and heavy traffic also is not an issue. For example, I spent two hours in rain hit traffic in Delhi, just crawling and repeatedly engaging clutch and break, but hardly felt tired when I finally got out of the car. Definitely a very good car to drive. It negotiates pot holes and speedbreakers quite decently.

Final Words A very good value for money package. For this price point, definitely a good buy. I am quite satisfied overall.

Areas of improvement Listed above. For this price point I cant think of much else.

Great space, comfortable to driveinteriors could be better, fuel economy is just about OK, some features missing