[vinay_tw]

Here's my ownership review of Etios VD on completion of 2 months and 3500 kms.

The Choice
Being a WagonR owner for more than 10 years made me look at Maruti as the first choice for a C-segment car. However, despite the great looking SX4 in the stable, and the hugely popular Dezire, Maruti didn't ring the bell for me. Dezire looked good at the price point (~ Rs. 8 lakhs), but somehow the shape of the car--as a disproportionate extension to Swift--was not to my liking. Even though SX4 looked like the right car for me due to its height (I am 6 ft 2 in tall), the cabin space was a dampener as also the pricing (for the safety-rich version). I considered Vento, Verna Fluidic and Fiesta Classic as other options. If Vento and Fiesta Classic looked cramped for space, Verna was priced well above my budget, despite its great looks and adequate space. The other option I seriously considered was Honda City. Great spec and an amzingly smooth car. But lack of a diesel version and the exorbitant price for a safety-rich version made me look the other way.

The very first time I saw Etios, I was stuck by its simplicity and great space. It had all the features I was looking for in a sedan within my budget. I almost made up my mind to buy the Etios Petrol at the very first instance. But on researching, I found a lot of negative feedback on the mileage of the car in specific and the interiors, quality of metal, engine/cabin noise and water seepage in general. Some of the feedback I saw about Etios put me off so badly that I never wanted to look at Etios again. I almost gave up the idea of buying a sedan for some time. The introduction of the diesel version gave me new hope. I knew Toyota was a leader in diesel engines and I was hoping that the Etios diesel would be as efficient. A lot of negativity about Etios was due to its poor petrol mileage and the other associated complaints were all reasons that people came up with to not buy a poor mileage car. There was never a doubt about the engine performance, stability, space (both cabin and boot) and its suitability for Indian roads. So, when I test drove the diesel, I could immediately see the difference. The engine responded as well as the petrol and the engine noise too was not such a spoiler. My wife's friend's advise, who did similar research on various cars, came in handy. If not anything, I knew that the diesel version could give me better mileage than petrol and since I had no other complaints about the car, I forced myself to accept a sedan at Rs. 1 lakh more than my budget of Rs. 8L. This still was about Rs. 1.5 lakh less than the other diesel C-segment cars (barring Dezire) with dual airbags, ABS and alloy wheels. Despite not getting even a single rupee off nor any freebies, somehow I felt good about making this choice.

Booking and Delivery
The booking and delivery experience was less than pleasant. Viva Toyota in Bangalore didn't have the sales manpower to address the growing interest of customers in Etios and Liva. Added to that, the only salesman I was talking to at Viva Toyota left the company just after I made the initial Rs. 50,000 advance, without even showing the courtesy of informing me of his quirtting. For a long time, I didn't know whom to speak to in Viva and I was seriously contemplating asking for a refund and looking at other options. However, Viva gave me the delivery of the vehicle within 30 days of my booking as promised and about 3 days after Deepavali.

The delivery experience was another sore point. On the day of the delivery (Oct 31, 2011), I had informed the salesperson who was dealing with my car delivery that I would need the car between 4 and 5 pm in the evening as I wanted to ensure that I could see all the features of the car in daylight before I took the delivery. Also, that was also an auspicious time for taking delivery. I waited to take delivery of the car from 4 pm, but the salesperson and the customer relations guys would not handover the keys to me even after I reminded of the time many times. Later, I literally had to shout at the customer relations head and almost snatch the key at 6 pm from her. Later I realized that they were setting up the car for delivery and the customery photo shoot. But, by the time they did it, it was dark and I couldn't check all the features of the car before I left. I felt this lack of customer orientation from Viva Toyota apalling. I am still awaiting the promised courier with the snap taken at the time of delivery.

On-road
I paid Rs. 8,90,532 on-road for Etios VD vermillion red with no discounts. I fitted the car with red and black seat covers to match the exterior color of the vehicle. I fitted reverse sensor, car charger, USB connectivity and steering grip at no discount, but I got mud flaps and floor mats at nominal discounts. It all worked out to approximately Rs. 9.1 lakhs with these accessories.

Good and bad of the car
I didn't find the interiors to be bad at all, as I was not expecting anything more. This could be due to my graduation from Wagon R LX to a sedan. I found the placement of speedometer dial awkward and the lack of ORVM surprising. Apart from these, I found the equipment levels upto my expectations.

As I write this review, I have completed ~3500 kms in exactly 2 months time, with one long drive from Bangalore to Munnar and back for about 1000 kms. See - Team-BHP - The Definitive Indian Car Community (Bangalore to Munnar - Which Route?)
I do a daily commute of 60kms to work everyday. My daily drive is a mixture of bumper-to-bumper traffic and traffic-free stretches in Bangalore. You could safely assume my daily drive as a typical city driving with heavy to very heavy traffic at times.

Exteriors
As far as the external design of the car is concerned, I have fallen in love with the smiling front grille design and the overall shaping of the car. I don't feel any part of the car is disproportionate and I find the alloy wheels adding to the overall exterior looks of the car. The car is definitely not as attractive as the Verna fluidic and as majestic as the SX4, but definitely has a distinct styling and an excellent road presence.

I have found the overall build quality good and sturdy. I've heard other Etios owners complaining about dashboard, engine and door rattling noise, which I am yet to experience.

Interiors
As far as interiors go, it is pretty plain and also a bit unconventional. The placement of speedometer dial and the AC ducts are unconventional. The space provision for storing 7 water bottles and other essential items is a big plus for a family sized car. The mini-cooler is a great addition too. The positioning of the gear lever is appropriate for a my height and I have never felt the lack of seat adjuster, eventhough I would've welcomed it. The tilted steering has helped me to adjust the steering wheel to my comfort. Lack of clutch side foot-rest and the additional cushioning in the drivers cabin floor to prevent engine noise are things that I don't like about this car.

Space
There is no question about Etios having the best space among C-segment and even higher-end cars. My family and I enjoyed the large cabin and boot space during our recent long drive to Munnar. Again, the comfort factor, especially on long drives is something I appreciate a lot. However, the hard clutch, lack of clutch-side foot rest and the cushioning below the feet creates some discomfort for the driver.

AC and ergonomics
AC is very effective and I have to keep the ducts in closed position most of times when I travel with my family. The upright seat position without the buckety feel suits me. However, not being able to see the bonnet and a general feeling of not having the full view of all the corners makes me a bit nervous at times. This could also be due to my long association with a small car. Eventhough I found the positioning of the speedo dial irritating, now I've come to realize the clear view it provides me of the indicators and the other dials. Having the dials just behind the steering wheel sometimes doesn't give you a clear view of all the vital parameters of the vehicle while driving.

Engine performance & driveability
1) The engine has been performing very well in city conditions. For a car having as low a power as Etios Diesel, the driveability in city conditions is surprisingly good. I have never felt tired driving this vehicle in the city. This could due to the good thigh and back support in the driver's seat.

2) Driving at top-gear cruise on highways is a bliss in Etios. The engine turns silent at constant high speeds and the stability of the vehicle doesn't let you feel the speeds even in excess of 120 kms/hr. Only when you open the window glass do you realize the whirring wind and the speed at which the vehicle is moving.

3) For someone who has driven a petrol car for a long time, I was expecting a substantial turbo lag in a diesel car. But, to my surprise I haven't found too much of a lag even though I did experience some problems in getting used to the pull of the vehicle at lower gears.

4) The gear position is good. But I've found gear changing a bit noisy. During my WagonR days, I used to feel shifting to lower gears to pick up momentum made my vahicle look powerless in front of others. But, after I got advise from some of the BHPians, I've now realized that changing gears to first or second gears at low speeds is not bad, if it means putting lesser pressure on your engine. I am quite happy with the performance of my car after adopting these sound diesel engine driving principles.

Fuel efficiency : City and Highway
In the last 2 months, I've got 15.5, 18, 16.5 and 17.5 km/l of fuel efficiency in city conditions for top-up to top-up fuel filling. I mostly drive with 50% AC on and in busy city traffic. On the long drive to Munnar, I got 19 km/l with 75% AC on and full boot load and 4 passengers (including 2 kids).

Other points
1) Suspensions are good, but I often experience a thud noise at road humps and road depressions. But the way in which the vehicle absorbs the road potholes is amazing and I am comparing my Wagon R experience to make this point.

2) Road grip is excellent and I haven't really felt unstable at any speed so far. Braking is excellent and confidence inspiring. This could also be due to ABS.

3) I would've liked company fitted back speakers, ORVMs and better quality dials. Wipers leave a streak of dirty water on the sides of the wind shield. The defogger doesn't work as efficiently and defogging effect wears off as soon as you switch off the defogger.

Conclusion
I have a had a great run with Etios so far. Even though the dealerships dont know how to sell this car, it is able to self-sell due to its superior performance and the Toyota brand name. I am supremely happy with my choice and I recommed the car to anybody who is looking for a spacious, decent looking and fuel efficient sedan in the price range of Rs 8-9 lakhs.

[RadiantKarma]

Boy, it's raining reviews of Etios family on team-bhp!

Congratulations on immensely sensible choice and ownership of this practical sedan! Makes a lot of sense while upgrading from another truly practical car like Wagon-R!

Thanks for sharing a good, detailed and balanced report. But expect BHPians to pitch for the pictures of your ride!

Originally Posted by vinay_tw

Here's my ownership review of Etios VD on completion of 2 months and 350 kms.

You mean 3500 kms? At another point you have mentioned ~3300 kms.

The delivery experience was another sore point. On the day of the delivery (Oct 31, 2011), I had informed the salesperson who was dealing with my car delivery that I would need the car between 4 and 5 pm in the evening as I wanted to ensure that I could see all the features of the car in daylight before I took the delivery. Also, that was also an auspicious time for taking delivery. I waited to take delivery of the car from 4 pm, but the salesperson and the customer relations guys would not handover the keys to me even after I reminded of the time many times. Later, I literally had to shout at the customer relations head and almost snatch the key at 6 pm from her.

I fully empathize with you. I too also picky about taking delivery of my car during a particular auspicious hour. Fortunately on my part, everything was ready for me. I could not realize the good part of this at that time, but now must appreciate my dealer for the same.

I am still awaiting the promised courier with the snap taken at the time of delivery.

Hope you get at least that and upload it here!

The car is definitely not as attractive as the Verna fluidic and as majestic as the SX4, but definitely has a distinct styling and an excellent road presence.

This is a car that really grows upon. From being indifferent to its looks, I have come to appreciate its decent road presence mainly due to its distinctive front grill and rear profile. I still don't like its side profile though from certain angles especially when it's stationary.

There is no question about Etios having the best space among C-segment and even higher-end cars. My family and I enjoyed the large cabin and boot space during our recent long drive to Munnar. Again, the comfort factor, especially on long drives is something I appreciate a lot.

True. Space, space everywhere! And great comfort too!

However, the hard clutch, lack of clutch-side foot rest and the cushioning below the feet creates some discomfort for the driver.

A jarring point for Diesel Etios. Fortunately, gear change requirement is low and overall driveability is superb.

Suspensions are good, but I often experience a thud noise at road humps and road depressions. But the way in which the vehicle absorbs the road potholes is amazing and I am comparing my Wagon R experience to make this point.

I have also noted this typical suspension behaviour in my ownership report. Slow down just a little before the bumps and potholes and the sound will vanish.

Even though the dealerships dont know how to sell this car, it is able to self-sell due to its superior performance and the Toyota brand name.

The sales experience has been sub-par, but not as low, for me too. However, A.S.S. experience has been very good so far. I would prefer a superior A.S.S. to a grand sales pitch anyday! How has been your A.S.S. experience?

Wishing you safe and happy miles on this super-comfy and yet reliable workhorse!

[swiftnfurious]

Congrats on the new car! Even I noticed you mentioning 350 kms in 2 months and wanted to pick on it! Later I read that its ~3300 and it made sense to me. Looks like you forgot to add pics to the thread - please do so. Makes the thread interesting. Well written & to the point. Looks like Viva Toyota is new into the business in Bangy? Any reason why didn't you prefer Nandi & Ravindu ? Please keep adding you experiences & your service experiences and costs too.

Wish you miles of happy & safe motoring!

Originally Posted by RadiantKarma

However, A.S.S. experience has been very good so far. I would prefer a superior A.S.S. to a grand sales pitch anyday!

How much have you clocked your vehicle? Any pointers on the service costs?

[amalji]

Good Review, @Vinay
Glad to see another happy Etiosian

Originally Posted by vinay_tw

A lot of negativity about Etios was due to its poor petrol mileage and the other associated complaints were all reasons that people came up with to not buy a poor mileage car. There was never a doubt about the engine performance, stability, space (both cabin and boot) and its suitability for Indian roads.

The Etios Petrol mileage is not bad is it is made out to be.

1) As per reviews of Etios Petrol owners on the forums, the mileage seems to improve after 3000 kms ( maybe, due to a change in ECU tuning post 3,000 kms )

2) The Etios has a superb torque and the way to drive the vehicle is to shift early. I know people in Toyota Etios facebook community who gets mileage of 17kmpl. The guy uses 5th gear after 35 kmph! And he used to get only 14kmpl on his old Santro through the same route. But, having said that, I wouldn't recommend to drive the Etios Petrol that way because it's a fun to drive vehicle and is meant to be taken for a spin and when you give more accelerator, obviously the mileage will come down. With my driving style, I get 12-13 kmpl on fast highway driving of Swift Petrol. So, even 12 kmpl on Etios on fast and agressive highway driving is fare enough.

Originally Posted by vinay_tw

Eventhough I found the positioning of the speedo dial irritating, now I've come to realize the clear view it provides me of the indicators and the other dials. Having the dials just behind the steering wheel sometimes doesn't give you a clear view of all the vital parameters of the vehicle while driving.

That's a very interesting observation of the speedo. Yeah, I agree with you on this even though I haven't thought about it before. I find one more advantage with this. It keeps the people inside the car very involved as they enjoy the view of the speedo from any seats especially the front seats.

Originally Posted by vinay_tw

Engine performance & driveability
4) The gear position is good. But I've found gear changing a bit noisy.

I guess, you are pointing to the click sound. It's because the gears slot in precisely. The rubbery gear shifts will be quiter. But, I will always prefer the slick, short and precise gear shifts to the rubbery ones.

Originally Posted by vinay_tw

2) Road grip is excellent and I haven't really felt unstable at any speed so far. Braking is excellent and confidence inspiring. This could also be due to ABS.

This is one point I adore about the Etios. Inspite of being the lightest car, it feels so grippy and stable.

Originally Posted by vinay_tw

3) I would've liked company fitted back speakers, ORVMs and better quality dials. Wipers leave a streak of dirty water on the sides of the wind shield.

Could you explain this further with photos or Videos ? I had posted the video of Etios wiper on my ownership thread
Could you please see, if you find the same phenomenon over there ?

Originally Posted by vinay_tw

The defogger doesn't work as efficiently and defogging effect wears off as soon as you switch off the defogger.

In my case, I found that the reason for defogger effect fading as soon as you switch it off is because of the throw of the air from ac vents. You might want to adjust the direction of air flow.

Originally Posted by RadiantKarma

Congratulations on immensely sensible choice and ownership of this practical sedan! Makes a lot of sense while upgrading from another truly practical car like Wagon-R!

True.

Originally Posted by RadiantKarma

A jarring point for Diesel Etios. Fortunately, gear change requirement is low and overall driveability is superb.

Don't feel much of a difference while using the clutch for normal shifting. It's only if you have the habit of holding the clutch for long, that you feel the difference with hard clutch.

[vinay_tw]

Thanks RadiantKarma and swiftnfurious for pointing out the incorrect number of kms.

Yes, you are right! I have completed 3500 kms as on date and sorry for the missing 0. However, I tried to edit the post, but couldn't. I don't know if I have access privileges to edit my own post. Mods, please help!

I tried to post some pictures too, but I see the URL path of the image being asked. I am trying to figure out how to provide the URL of an image stored on my system. I am sure I am missing something. Will get back as soon as I have some clues.

[amalji]

Originally Posted by vinay_tw

Thanks RadiantKarma and swiftnfurious for pointing out the incorrect number of kms.

Yes, you are right! I have completed 3500 kms as on date and sorry for the missing 0. However, I tried to edit the post, but couldn't. I don't know if I have access privileges to edit my own post. Mods, please help!

Click on the red triangle with the ! mark inside it. ( Report post function )
And then give your comments to the moderator regarding the changes that needs to be made.

Originally Posted by vinay_tw

I tried to post some pictures too, but I see the URL path of the image being asked. I am trying to figure out how to provide the URL of an image stored on my system. I am sure I am missing something. Will get back as soon as I have some clues.

Check the link which explains how to upload pictures on team-bhp

[drmohitg]

Congrats on your new car. The last couple of weeks have been all about the 2 Ts : Tata and Toyota. I have seen 2-3 new Safari threads and a similar number for the Etios.

Do post some pics of the car. I am particularly interested in how does Toyota After sales react to this sudden increase in traffic at there outlets. Earlier it used to be less crowded but with the 2 mass market cars like Etios and Liva they have become a lot more busy now. I hope they are still able to maintain the standards.

@Amalji: Etiosian?

[heman_369]

Congrats Vinay on the most sensible purchase in the entry level c segment. Hope you enjoy many more miles on the car.
I myself own a 13k run Etios (P) and have been consistenyly getting 13-14 with a mix of 70% city and 30 % highway. I am happy with this mileage.
The torquey petrol enigne is a blast to drive while the diesel is a fuel efficient effortless cruiser.

[vinay_tw]

Some pictures, finally! Mostly taken on the date of delivery and the next day.


The picture taken when the the keys were handed over. This is taken from my camera. The Viva Toyota snap is yet to reach me!












Fully loaded boot just before we started on our trip to Munnar. Contains three full sized luggage bags (Euro baggage std), 2 backpacks and 2 handbags.

[drmohitg]

The car looks great in Red. I really like the Alloys too. These are the OEM one right?
I really wish they did change the colour of the dash to a slightly darker shade or offer beige. The current light grey makes it very dull.

[vinay_tw]

Originally Posted by RadiantKarma

Congratulations on immensely sensible choice and ownership of this practical sedan! Makes a lot of sense while upgrading from another truly practical car like Wagon-R!

Originally Posted by swiftnfurious

Congrats on the new car!

Originally Posted by amalji

Good Review, @Vinay

Originally Posted by heman_369

Congrats Vinay on the most sensible purchase in the entry level c segment. Hope you enjoy many more miles on the car.

Originally Posted by drmohitg

Congrats on your new car.

Thanks. This is what makes Team BHP so special. You have people who celebrate your happy moment and wish you good things.
I like the point about upgrading from another practical car. WagonR was a delight to drive. I am glad I made the right move from WagonR to Etios.

Originally Posted by RadiantKarma

You mean 3500 kms? At another point you have mentioned ~3300 kms.

Thanks for pointing that out. I've written to the moderators to make the change. Hope the change will happen soon.

Originally Posted by RadiantKarma

I could not realize the good part of this at that time, but now must appreciate my dealer for the same.

I had gone to the dealer to take delivery with Maruti experience at the back of my mind. Maruti dealers have a way of making you feel comfortable. This had a role to play as well in making the delivery experience bad for me.

Originally Posted by RadiantKarma

Hope you get at least that and upload it here!

Have already uploaded.

Originally Posted by RadiantKarma

From being indifferent to its looks, I have come to appreciate its decent road presence mainly due to its distinctive front grill and rear profile.

I really dont have complaints here. Etios, eventhough is often referred to as an entry level sedan, it is by no means smaller to the other C-segment cars. I made a comparison of the length and height of Etios with Dezire and found Etios to be longer by at least half a feet and it is as long as C2 and C+ segment cars, if not more.

Originally Posted by RadiantKarma

True. Space, space everywhere! And great comfort too!

Space alone should clinch the deal in Etios' favor for people looking to upgrade to a sedan. What is a car without space?

Originally Posted by RadiantKarma

I have also noted this typical suspension behaviour in my ownership report. Slow down just a little before the bumps and potholes and the sound will vanish.

Thanks! I'll try this suggestion. What is the reason for this? Is it due to the tie rod hitting the bump?

Originally Posted by RadiantKarma

How has been your A.S.S. experience?

I've had my 1000-km service. I was happy with the overall approach and attitude of the service centre. As I had to leave the car and go to office in alternate ttansport, they suggested that I wait for 1.5 hrs to get an 'Express Maintenance' at no extra cost and take the car myself. This I found was really good and the service managers were ready to be flexible. But all the steps of servicing were meticulously done by service technicians as the service experts answered my questions on various driving and maintenance aspects. Overall a good experience so far.

Originally Posted by RadiantKarma

Wishing you safe and happy miles on this super-comfy and yet reliable workhorse!

Thanks buddy! With fellow BHPians, I feel safe and secure and I hope to be of help to others as much as you have been to me.

Originally Posted by amalji

Click on the red triangle with the ! mark inside it. ( Report post function )
And then give your comments to the moderator regarding the changes that needs to be made.
Check the link which explains how to upload pictures on team-bhp

Thanks. I could upload pics and also report post with my corrections.

Originally Posted by amalji

Glad to see another happy Etiosian

Great name! Wow - ETIOSIAN!

Originally Posted by amalji

That's a very interesting observation of the speedo. Yeah, I agree with you on this even though I haven't thought about it before. I find one more advantage with this. It keeps the people inside the car very involved as they enjoy the view of the speedo from any seats especially the front seats.

I heard a different version from another Etios owner. Speedo being in the centre let's your family see the speed at which you are going and you may be forced to go slow.

Originally Posted by amalji

I guess, you are pointing to the click sound. It's because the gears slot in precisely. The rubbery gear shifts will be quiter. But, I will always prefer the slick, short and precise gear shifts to the rubbery ones.

Yes. the click sound. But, I agree that it makes the gear change precise and no great worries though, the gear change clicks are quite loud.

Originally Posted by amalji

Could you explain this further with photos or Videos ? I had posted the video of Etios wiper on my ownership thread
Could you please see, if you find the same phenomenon over there ?

Let me analyze this better and post some pics soon.

Originally Posted by amalji

In my case, I found that the reason for defogger effect fading as soon as you switch it off is because of the throw of the air from ac vents. You might want to adjust the direction of air flow.

Sure. Will try that and see.

Originally Posted by swiftnfurious

Looks like Viva Toyota is new into the business in Bangy? Any reason why didn't you prefer Nandi & Ravindu ?

Yes. Viva is a new dealer. The only reason why I didnt go to Ravindu or Nandi was due to its proximity to my house. It is located in Hebbal on the Airport Road, which is a straght road from my locality.

Originally Posted by swiftnfurious

How much have you clocked your vehicle? Any pointers on the service costs?

3500 kms. Now the number has changed in my review! I haven't had the actual service which will take place at 10k kms. I'll let you know my experience then.

[nkrishnap]

Congrats one the Mr. Practicality of the cars similar to Mr. Cricket for cricket.

I have the very same colored Liva bought from Viva Toyota. For the photos you need to contact Mr. Navin who will guide you to Sam who will be able to help you out with the photos. By the way even I am yet to collect the photos from Viva Toyota.

By the way who was you sales rep? You took delivery of the car exactly 7 days after I took delivery of my Liva.

Do keep the thread updated.

[automachine]

@vinay_tw: Congrats on being an etios VD owner. It is really a sensible purchase and I can vouch that since I too have the same model albeit in bluish silver color. Space and mileage are two main strong points of etios D and hope the toyota reliability would have trouble free long term ownership experience. I could only wish that the build quality was a bit better with the metal a bit more solid. By the way I got mileage of 20+ kmpl in my last two full tank readings with AC off in both cases and in mix of city + highway and city only driving cases. Also I noticed that the OTR was 8.9L for you. Seems to be higher as I got my Etios VD @8.31L at Ahmedabad in Oct 2011. Seems either Toyota raised the prices recently or Bangalore RTO/road taxes are higher.

[amalji]

Originally Posted by automachine

@vinay_tw: I could only wish that the build quality was a bit better with the metal a bit more solid.

Infact, I prefer a lighter car provided it doesn't affect the ride quality or high speed stability. In Etios's case, it is fantastic in both these points. And with regards to the kerb weight of Etios Petrol, it's comparable to that of the Baleno and Old Honda City. So, it's not like Etios' is made of very thin material. It offers adequate thickness. Japanese are the best in stripping of weight without affecting stability.

Originally Posted by automachine

By the way I got mileage of 20+ kmpl in my last two full tank readings with AC off in both cases and in mix of city + highway and city only driving cases.

I'm yet to touch 20kmpl yet probably due to my aggressive driving style. Will need to get into mileage mode at some point.

Originally Posted by automachine

Also I noticed that the OTR was 8.9L for you. Seems to be higher as I got my Etios VD @8.31L at Ahmedabad in Oct 2011. Seems either Toyota raised the prices recently or Bangalore RTO/road taxes are higher.

Price was not increased. It should be due to the higher tax in Bangalore.

[automachine]

Originally Posted by amalji

Infact, I prefer a lighter car provided it doesn't affect the ride quality or high speed stability. In Etios's case, it is fantastic in both these points. And with regards to the kerb weight of Etios Petrol, it's comparable to that of the Baleno and Old Honda City. So, it's not like Etios' is made of very thin material. It offers adequate thickness. Japanese are the best in stripping of weight without affecting stability.

Well I agree that lighter weight benefits in terms of mileage and Etios ride quality is fantastic overall. However I think a thicker metal could have helped reduce the NVH level in addition to being able to handle well the bruises and punches from fellow riders in city traffic. Not that I have had a dent so far but it gives a better assurance. Also there is a bounciness felt on bad road as well driver needs to slow down on minor bumps to avoid the car being lifted up in air slightly. This means that weight cannot handle the front springs full expansion force after being compressed when hitting a crater or bump. It could also mean that the suspension might need a bit more tuning, however I am not an expert in this area so cannot comment more. My experience is based on the handling of other two cars SX4 diesel and the Accent CRDi which are heavier than the Etios.

Originally Posted by amalji

I'm yet to touch 20kmpl yet probably due to my aggressive driving style. Will need to get into mileage mode at some point.

Well I would soon be getting the third reading and this time it is a bit aggressive driving so I would be able to report how the car performs in this case.

Originally Posted by amalji

Price was not increased. It should be due to the higher tax in Bangalore.

Wow that is way too high considering that I already paid around 44k in taxes so B'lore taxes would be around 90K !