Toyota Fortuner : Preview Volkswagen Polo GTI : Launch Thread BMW X1 : Launch Thread Honda Accord Hybrid : Review What youll like:
Fuel-efficient, environment-friendly Hybrid technology
Fast performance, with good low-end torque
Comfy low speed ride quality
Safe handling matched with a steering that's nice to use
Spacious interiors, well-bolstered seats & lots of equipment
5 star safety rating. Kit includes 6 airbags, lane-watch system, ESP & more
What you wont:
An overpriced CBU! 6 lakhs more expensive than chief competitor, the Toyota Camry
Misses many rear seat features that the Camry has (reclining seat, air-con settings, audio controls...)
Despite the fast performance, it is boring to drive
Excessively soft suspension means an unsettled high-speed ride
No spare tyre! Additionally, low-profile tyres are prone to damage on Indian roads
Small boot for such a large luxury car. Hybrid hardware eats up space
Audi A4 : Review What you'll like:
Clean & timeless design. Very classy styling
Well-packaged, high quality interiors
Suspension offers a good balance between comfort & handling
Slick 7-speed AT is nicely mated to the 1.4L TFSI. Adequate power + fuel efficiency
Loaded with features & tech (smart MID, triple-zone climate control, wireless phone charger etc.)
5-star safety rating & equipment
What you won't:
1.4L is 'adequate', but not special. Will be smoked even by cheaper siblings like the Octavia & A3
No diesel engine on offer. Period
Is best suited to 4 onboard (and not 5), thanks to the tall transmission tunnel
Looks a lot like the older A4! Layman won't be able to tell the difference
7-speed DSG has a notorious reputation for breakdowns & unreliability
A FWD, when all of its competitors are RWD
Jaguar XE : Launch Thread Mercedes GLC-Class : Review What you'll like:
Clean styling and solid road presence
High quality workmanship all round and spacious interiors
5 star NCAP rating. Loaded with safety features - 7 airbags, ESP, ABS, attention assist & more
5 drive modes to suit most driving styles and a dedicated off-road package in all versions
A punchy petrol option for places where >2L diesel engines are not allowed
What you won't:
Usability of luggage space is compromised by the spare tyre kept in the boot
Operation of some controls and equipment (sat nav, handwriting inputs) not user-friendly
Petrol engine guzzles fuel when driven enthusiastically
Some features might go missing when locally assembled versions roll out
9 gears are too many!
Jaguar XF : Launch Thread Volvo S90 : Review What you'll like:
Built like a tank!
Great looking face. Volvo's new design language packs appeal
Well-crafted interiors. Adequate space too
19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system is simply awesome
Comfortable ride quality over most road conditions
Top levels of safety & equipment
What you won't:
Only a 2.0L diesel. No 6-cylinder option, no petrol engine
Weird rear end styling. Doesn't match the smart front
A FWD. Driving experience isn't as much fun as its RWD competitors
Some glaring omissions (
electric steering adjustment, sunshade for rear windscreen...)
Volvo's tiny 15-dealer network
Volvo badge lacks the lure & pull of its German rivals