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MG Hector Diesel Long Term Review

Morris Garage a.k.a. MG, created a lot of buzz with the launch of their internet-connected SUV, the Hector last year. A feature-loaded SUV with tons of space and superb road presence quickly became their recipe for success and the automaker has enjoyed good sales numbers since then. Many consumers despite the lack of awareness of the brand have ventured interest and purchased one based on the technology and comfort that the Hector promises. We have got a MG Hector diesel in our fleet for a long term test and we have already covered more than 3000 kms in it. 

We received our test vehicle with almost 7000 kms on the odometer, but it still felt brand new. It also features some chrome accessories along with bumper protectors helping it stand out among other Hectors on the road. The driving position is very commanding, giving the driver a great view of what's around. Driving and parking this huge SUV in the city could be a task in itself although the 360-degree parking camera comes in to be quite handy. The resolution of the cameras has some room for improvement though.

Speaking of driving in the city, the clutch is on the heavier side which is quite noticeable in stop-go traffic and so is the turbo lag lower down. The motor delivers a good punch in the mid-range where it also becomes quite vocal but doesn't excite too much in the top-end as the power starts tapering off after this point. The light steering is ideal for commuting duties but doesn't offer much feel or feedback. Handling may not be the Hector's strong point but a good set of brakes and grippy tyres do ensure confidence at high speeds.

Since it arrived in our garage, it has become our go-to choice for shoots thanks to its soft suspension setup, practical cabin and large boot. The flat floor, large and comfortable seats and a massive panoramic sunroof make the car feel extremely airy and spacious. The exceptional ride quality combined with the high ground clearance ensured maximum comfort on the worst of roads. We have driven it both in the city as well as out on the highway and are nothing but amazed by the amount of comfort the Hector offers to its passengers.

The biggest USP of the Hector has always been its massive infotainment system which comes preloaded with connected car features and apps like Gaana. Though not the most fluid around, it offers fantastic audio quality and can also be controlled via voice commands. The Hector also comes with remote unlocking capabilities which has become our most used feature simply because of how efficient and easy it makes our life. The remote unlocking feature has been the most used connected car function for us. The app comes in handy when you want to grab something quickly from your car and the keys are not on you. The app also checks the car's tyre pressure every time you open the app.

We crossed 10,000 kms on our vehicle and even got it serviced recently. We had a fab experience at the service station where everything was explained to us clearly, the service was done in time and the bill was very reasonable as well. While MG has a decent service network, a 5-year unlimited km warranty does show confidence on their side. MG hasn't stopped there and has also launched the Hector Plus for buyers looking for even more practicality and space. Till then we will enjoy all the creature comforts the Hector cocoons us with.

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Bentley Bentayga Review

The Bentley Bentayga caused a stir in the market when it was launched in 2016. It now faces stiff competition even at such a price point! Rolls-Royce, Lamborghini, and even Aston Martin have come up with their own high-end SUVs. So today we see what makes the Bentley Bentayga such a terrific ultra-luxury SUV.

The Bentley Bentayga has a design that is distinctly Bentley. The circular headlamps, grille, and the overall silhouette of the car are all very much trademark design aspects of the Bentley brand. But the attempt to make a design language largely meant for sedans and limousines apply for an SUV has not worked all the time. The side of the car looks quite odd, and so does the rear, which looks quite plain, and lacks the flamboyance of, say, the Lamborghini Urus. But Bentley is not alone in this, as Rolls-Royce also has not been supremely successful in porting their design language to their Cullinan SUV.

Nevertheless the SUV has got presence, loads of it. The car looks majestic on the road, and bespoke. Bentley offers over 100 colours that they would coat their SUV with upon your order. The vehicle looks very menacing overall, and would satisfy any of its buyers. To give you an idea, the configurator offers 21 varieties of blues itself!

The interior of the Bentley Bentayga is an everlasting reminder of the sheer luxury it provides. Nothing but the finest materials finds its way into this vehicle. The seats are very well made, and the seating position is just perfect. The exquisite materials used in the Bentayga are completely customizable, every single trim, colour, leather in this car can be changed as per your wish. Once again such options just prove how much effort and attention to detail goes into this, or any Bentley for that matter.

The car comes loaded with features and kit, that would satisfy even the pickiest of enthusiasts. Even state of the art technology like adaptive cruise control are available with the Bentayga. The infotainment system is really solid, and comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but that is to be expected as this system is based on the version used by Volkswagen. But do keep in mind that this unit does not roll away to hide itself like the unit does in the Flying Spur. The option list does include a Breitling clock that would cost you Rs. 1.5 crore. But then again, the mere existence of such options show what kind of customers Bentley deals with.

Long journeys are a breeze and the rear seat experience is also very solid, with optional rear seat entertainment systems, and a tablet to control the infotainment and climate from the rear seat. Legroom is plentiful and so is the space for your knees and head. Ultimately, the interior is nothing short of blissful. Everything is picture perfect, and can be customized the way you want it.

When this car debuted, Bentley was more keen on showcasing its speed. Under the flying B, there can sit a petrol or a diesel V8 engine, or a W12 engine, that can be obtained in the ‘Speed’ variant, understandably. That car owns the title for the ‘Fastest Production SUV’, with a 306 km/hr top speed! That record dethroned the Lamborghini Urus for the all-important title.

The variant we will be looking at today is the V8 petrol. The V8 in question is a bi-turbo unit that puts out 542 HP of power and 770 Nm of torque between 1960 to 4500 RPM. The Bentayga can go from a standstill to 100 km/hr in 4.5 seconds, and, if you can keep your foot down, the speedo will climb all the way up to 290 km/hr! But the truth is many Bentayga owners would probably never touch the speeds capable of the W12, so the V8 strikes a good balance between economy and performance.

The Bentayga comes with all the contemporary methods of fuel saving like cylinder deactivation and a start-stop system. The V8 engine can even be bought as a hybrid! Power delivery is really good, and the car is very punchy through the mid-range.

The car is also pretty dynamic, for an SUV, and handles the wiggly bits quite easily. The Bentayga uses an aluminum frame that Bentley is very proud of, and it also employs electronic anti-roll bars. This is very useful in minimising the body roll that a car of this size provides.

The suspension set-up is just perfect with the right firmness for cornering, and is supple enough to handle the bumpy bits. Speaking of which, unlike the Cullinan, this car can come with an off-road terrain response system that can make this sophisticated and luxurious piece of art tackle raw nature. Although no one will use it, it still is present, reassuring you that you are not just in a land yacht, but in a tough land yacht.

As mentioned before, the Bentley Bentayga is one of the very first ultra-luxury SUVs that dawned the market. But till date this car remains a strong competitor to all of its newfound rivals. The ride is perfect, and the engine is smooth and fast. The car’s inside pampers you with the finest materials, and looks imposing on the road. The only anomaly that crops up is the odd proportions, that looks to be a side effect of porting a sedan design to an SUV. Apart from that, there really is not much to say about the Bentley Bentayga. It truly still is one of the benchmarks in its segment.

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Rolls-Royce Cullinan Black Badge Review - Most Luxurious SUV

Rolls-Royce makes the most luxurious cars on earth, there is no arguing that. So when the company announced that they would be launching an SUV, the expectations were quite high, and so was the excitement. Upon launch the car was received with some criticism about the design, but was, and still stands largely successful among buyers. Today we are here to find out if the Cullinan is a true descendant of Rolls-Royce’s stunning portfolio of land-yachts. 

While it lacks the menacing flair that the Phantom possesses, the car is imposing and the distinct design language is instantly recognisable upon setting your gaze on the Cullinan. The weighted hub caps are still present, and so are the suicide doors. See this on the road, and you would be finding yourself making way for it. All the major design aspects like the silhouette, and the headlight geometry, tail-light assembly are all quintessentially Rolls-Royce. The Cullinan’s exterior is completely customisable, and hence you get to choose exactly how your Cullinan should look. With the exterior of the Cullinan, it is very clear that Rolls-Royce wants the Cullinan to be seen as an extension of the Phantom family. 

Step up into the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, and you are greeted by the finest materials that have ever found themselves in a car, let alone an SUV. The interior is something Rolls-Royce have perfected, and that is very much seen inside here. The hand-built interior offers immaculate precision and makes you feel exclusive, as every Rolls-Royce does. But do not let the classic looking interior make you think that this car is short on equipment. This is where the BMW ownership comes into great use. Hidden behind the simple blue-red temperature dials is an automatic climate control, 4 zones of it.

The simple looking steering wheel is home to a vast of stereo and adaptive cruise control buttons. Behind the steering wheel are a set of classic looking dials. These dials are digital, but to the unkeen eye, this might as well be analog. That is kind of the theme in this interior, its classic but is deceivingly modern! The car comes with all sorts of technology like 360 degree camera, and the aforementioned adaptive cruise control.

The rear seats, where most Rolls-Royce owners would be spending their time are draped with the finest leather that the world has seen and are extremely comfortable to be on. The fact that they are handmade is only realised when you are told so. Such is the prowess of perfection of the craftsmanship that Rolls-Royce has. A rear seat display can be optioned out that essentially mirrors the functionality of the BMW iDrive based infotainment system. Still it is presented in such a beautiful way, with motors and metallic buttons and smooth motion.

That presentation justifies the price tag of the option, if you are to buy this vehicle. The fridge behind the back seats is home to 2 champagne glasses, as is customary with Rolls-Royce at this point. The company can also customise for any constellations that you ask for using thousands of LEDs that inlay the headliner, if you option the starlight headliner.

Overall, this interior is a rolling 7-star hotel, and not even a single soul can be seen drawing complaints out of a work of art, that is this interior. Once again, as mentioned everything is customisable, this car is not only yours by registration, but also by ideology and design.

Press the start button, and the ‘Spirit Of Ecstasy’, majestically rises up, and under her the 6.75-litre V12 engine whirrs into life. The car is barely audible and is smooth as the car’s velvet carpets (made of lambswool). The car produces 600 horsepower and 900 Nm of torque at 1700 RPM. The Black Badge does 0-100 km/hr in 4.9 seconds. But honestly, talking about numbers is quite pointless for a car like this. Driving this vehicle is a breeze, and the gearbox functions like it does not exist. The suspension is set up perfectly and bumps are rarely felt thanks to the proactive suspension system that alters stiffness upon examining the road ahead.

Switch to the backseat and the silence is amplified. The luxury is felt with a sense of potency that is truly unparalleled. The smoothness is the only thing you can feel about this vehicle, and that is something that Rolls-Royce has done really well. This car has a low mode with its 8-speed gearbox, and can technically off-road, although there are no modes available other than a single off-road button. But the only time the Rolls-Royce Cullinan is ever going to get even close to off-roading is when the owner pays a visit to his/her farmhouse.

Fuel economy is in single digits, but Rolls-Royce has taken car of that by giving a petrol tank with a capacity in the order of 3 digits (100-litres)! The Black Badge gets performance upgrades like bigger brake discs and a shorter pedal play. It is underpinned by an all aluminium platform dubbed as the ‘Architecture of Luxury’. The car handles really well for how big it is and the visibility is great. The steering is quite light for city traffic but weighs up quite nicely at higher speeds.

The Rolls-Royce Cullinan is an incredibly solid package. The customisability of this car is also a major drawing factor. You the esteemed customer have the ultimate say on anything that goes into the vehicle. Right from colours all the way down to the colour of the stitching, Rolls-Royce gives you the say. Ultimately, that colossal price tag is not just for the car, but for the experience that comes with it.

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Porsche Cayenne Coupe Review

Coupe SUVs' existence is always a topic of debate, like pineapple on pizza. But people even on the other side would agree that Porsche has done a really good job managing the proportions and styling. While the BMW X6 and even the GLE Coupe look oddly proportioned, this car looks simpler and well proportioned.

Upfront we have, well, a familiar face. Porsche has not done much to differentiate the front end from the other versions. It looks the same, that is to say, it looks really good. Move on to the side, and you will see exactly where the effort went into the design of this car. Speaking of that sloping roofline, do note that rear visibility is not that great because of the sloping roofline, but the 360-degree camera system helps quite significantly.

The coupe rear seems more integrated mainly due to the fact that the body itself is more curved and smooth compared to its aforementioned rivals. That is mostly thanks to the inherent design of the Cayenne Turbo. Porsche have managed to tread on the fine line that separates an SUV and a Coupe with this car. The rear also gets a light-bar, something almost every premium SUV has these days. This light bar, however, has Porsche written inside of it, adding that extra bit of flair.

The spoiler situation is quite intriguing. There is the roof spoiler, nothing much there. But then there is the cool retractable spoiler. Porsche boasts it is the largest spoiler ever installed in a production SUV. What is does is it draws attention when stationary and draws downforce when your foot is down at 90 kms per hour. It also adds the final bit of pizzaz and drama a sports coupe is expected to have and seals the deal. At the end of the day, it's a sportier-looking version of an SUV, from a company that has a formidable sporting pedigree.

The grab handle attached to the centre console reminds you of the rugged side of this car. Overall cabin quality is top-notch and would satisfy even the most nit-picky customers. The materials used are nothing short of the best. The paddles are made of actual metal, instead of plastic which shows who this car is for. And the duo of the digital driver's displays are highly customisable and are easy to operate while on the road. The heads-up display is also very informative and is easy to read while driving.

The Porsche Cayenne Turbo comes with an option of two-seater rear, or a three-seater bench. If you plan to carry three in the back often though, the sloping roofline can become a problem for the middle passenger. The boot space is compromised, but not to a large extent, and is still sizeable even for long journeys. Tiny touches to this interior, and other latest Porsche interiors in extension are quite nice.

The version driven here is the Turbo variant, with a 4.0-litre, twin-turbo V8, powering all 4-wheels with a power of 550 PS, and 770 Nm of torque. All of this power hiding underneath the bonnet, when unleashed can take you from standstill to 100 km/hr in just 3.9 seconds in the sportiest variant (Sports Chrono pack is standard). This car turns petrol into performance, fast. The 8-speed Tiptronic S gearbox is pretty good and fast with shifts.

But the dynamics itself is where the Porsche Cayenne Coupe comes alive. Porsche have used all the tech available to make this car dynamically superior to their rivals. Additions like rear-wheel steering, active anti-roll bars, torque vectoring have alleviated the extra weight that is inherent with SUVs. The comparatively lower driving position also helps with the sensation of speed inside the car. All in all, the driving experience makes you forget that this car weighs 2.2 tons, with the steering offering wonderful feel and feedback.

The off-road features are where Porsche flex their muscles a little bit. The car has got all the aids that an SUV is expected to have in the market today. Again, although it will not be used much if at all, it is a statement depicting the capabilities of the car, and the SUV it's based on. Overall, if you want a driver's car in this segment, this car looks pretty in your priority list.

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Honda Jazz Long Term Review

The Honda Jazz pioneered the premium hatchback segment in India when it was first launched in India in 2009. At that time the Jazz offered sedan-like practicality and space along with impressive dynamics but failed to gain the market-share it deserved. The second generation of the vehicle was launched here in 2015 and got a mild update in 2018. The diesel Jazz is now a part of our long term fleet. 

Honda mildly updated the Jazz just a year ago with new features and some cosmetic changes. The facelift brought LED lights and chrome door handles along with turn indicators on ORVMs. The Jazz's modern and premium styling elements don't attract much attention even after the facelift. The design doesn't look dated but there are no major exterior changes with this facelift.

However, this facelift does bring new features to the interior. The interior has always been this car's strong point. Honda has loaded the Jazz with a ton of features such as keyless go, cruise control and automatic climate control to name a few. The top-end variant also gets a reverse parking camera with guidelines. It does miss out on a sunroof unfortunately but the dual-tone black and beige theme does give the cabin an airy feel.

The updated infotainment system is much more responsive and the facelift also brings in support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The front row of seats provide great support and comfort and the same can be said about the rear seats. The cabin is extremely spacious and can easily seat five people in comfort. Even the boot is spacious.

The 1.5-litre diesel engine powering the Honda Jazz makes 99 HP and 200 Nm of torque. The engine has impressive drivability and is ideal for commuting duties. The motor doesn't have any low-end lag and delivers linear performance throughout the rev range. The engine is on the noisier side and becomes more vocal in the top-end but also manages to deliver a stellar 18 km/l of fuel economy which is truly outstanding in this segment. The 6-speed manual gearbox delivers smooth shifts while the clutch is on the lighter side.

Honda has also tuned the suspension to be on the stiffer side resulting in a great ride and handling balance. Sharp bumps do enter the cabin but overall the ride is very pliant. High-speed stability is very good and the body roll is also well contained. Braking performance is decent. The steering also offers remarkable feel and feedback. While being light in the city, it weighs up at higher speeds and offers a good amount of confidence around corners.

The interior of the Honda Jazz is really spacious and comes with a good number of features. The diesel engine is extremely frugal and the Jazz has exceptional dynamics. The Jazz offers sedan-like practicality while still being compact and fun to drive. Despite having all these characteristics, the Jazz is quite under-rated. Although this segment has way too many offerings and the Jazz is one of the most expensive options, people looking for a reliable and spacious hatchback will not be disappointed by this vehicle.

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Ford Aspire Long Term Review

The Ford Figo Aspire was first launched in 2015 and we came out very impressed after driving the car. The sedan was priced very attractively but somehow it just didn't fetch the sales that its rivals were getting. The Aspire did have some flaws, mainly the lack of modern features but Ford has corrected all that and more in the Aspire facelift which was launched recently and we have been driving it since more than a month now to get to know the car better.

The facelift brings some cosmetic changes to the Ford Aspire. You get smoked headlamps, new bumpers and 15-inch alloy wheels on the Titanium trims. The car looks more proportionate and premium now. The top of the line variant comes with 6-airbags, which is a segment first.

The pre-facelift Aspire lacked some features at launch. Nonetheless, Ford has updated the sedan with all the features a compact sedan owner could ever need. The vehicle gets a push-button start system along with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment screen. Ford's SYNC3 is easy to use and responsive and comes with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. There is also a high definition reverse camera which makes parking easier than ever. The Aspire also gets automatic headlights and automatic wipers along with an auto-dimming inside rearview mirror.

The Ford Aspire's cabin is surprisingly spacious. The large windows and dual-tone treatment give out an airy feel. The front seats are roomy and comfortable. The rear seats have a decent amount of headroom and legroom and can seat two people comfortably. The boot is massive and easy to access. Storage spaces are good upfront but at the rear you barely get any storage biFord has carried over the fantastic 1.5-litre TDCI engine which delivers superb performance. The motor has a strong mid-range with minimal turbo lag. Acceleration is also very quick for a diesel. The motor does get a bit vocal in the top-end but has good drivability. The gearbox offers smooth shifts. The brakes have good stopping power while the clutch is on the lighter side. Fuel efficiency hovers around the 16-17 km/l mark.

The Ford Aspire has always been a driver's car and this facelift has only improved things. The car is easy and fun to drive at the same time. The steering delivers good feedback. The new tyres provide much better grip than before. Body roll is on point and the ride quality is also brilliant. The Ford Aspire also boasts of magnificent driving dynamics thanks to the larger tyres.

Despite all the strengths, there are some shortcomings too. The Aspire still misses out on passive entry and the instrument cluster looks quite basic. There are still no projectors or LED DRLs. However, Ford has been making strides in the service area and the company claims that service costs are the lowest in the segment.

Ford has done everything to improve the Aspire and has even gone as far as to offer the lowest cost of ownership in this segment. The Aspire offers the best of performance and efficiency, something which is unheard of in this segment. The Aspire is neither outdated nor unreliable and no other car in its segment can come close to the Aspire's VFM proposition, thus making it the best compact sedan in the market today.

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Ford Mustang Review

The first generation Ford Mustang was launched way back in 1964 and ever since it has been a favourite among car enthusiasts all over the world. The Pony car was launched in India in 2016 and Ford claims that the Mustang is a grand tourer rather than an outright sportscar. So, how good a grand tourer is it?

Starting off with the most pleasing aspect about the Mustang, the design and looks. The car turns heads in a jiffy and is sure to get people's hearts racing. In fact, the real craze for the Mustang among the enthusiasts is because of the way it looks. While the swooping long bonnet, the iconic Pony badged grille, aggressive-looking projector headlights with the LED DRLs and the coupe-like roof design makes the Mustang stand out as a proper muscle car, the black-finished alloy wheels and the three slat LED tail-lights give it a racy appearance.

Sneak inside the cabin and you are greeted by a retro-inspired yet modern-looking cabin. Some interesting bits about the Mustang's cabin are the 'Since 1964' embossing/badging on the left side of the dashboard and the big turbine style dials for the instrument cluster which reads out 'ground speed'. That aside, there is a 3-spoke multi-function steering wheel (with cool aluminium inserts) and a touch-screen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The centre console houses a slew of buttons including toggle switches. Overall, cabin quality is amazing and functional too. In terms of features, you get dual zone climate control, keyless entry, push-button start, heated and cooled front seats, ambient lighting and automatic headlights and wipers. The front seats are super large and literally hug you. They are comfortable and offer good support while the rear seat is not suited for adults as legroom and headroom are tight. The boot has a luggage capacity of 383-litres.

Coming to the most interesting part of the Ford Mustang, the performance. Powering the Mustang is a 5.0-litre V8 naturally aspirated motor that produces 401 PS of power and 515 Nm of torque. 0-100 km/hr comes up in just 4.5 seconds. The engine is very tractable and feels super thrilling on the straights. The mid-range is punchy while the powertrain goes nuts as you reach the redline. You'd want to turn off the music in the car and enjoy listening to the exhaust note instead.

There is absolutely no flat spot in the entire rev range and the car gives you a good dose of adrenaline when you go hard on the throttle. The powerplant comes mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifts. On part throttle, the gearbox feels quick but floor the gas and the gearbox takes a while to shift cogs. However, there is a manual mode as well in which the gearbox doesn't upshift on its own and this contributes to the fun factor. Now we know someone buying a Mustang is least bothered about its mileage but for others wanting to know, the Pony car delivers a fuel efficiency of around 5-6 km/l.

In terms of driving dynamics, the Ford Mustang is pretty much sorted. Though the suspension is on the stiffer side, it isn't back breaking actually. It handles well on both the smooth and the rough roads but big potholes do filter inside the cabin. The ride is flat and the high-speed stability is commendable. During our drive, we never managed to scrape the underbelly and that itself tells how good a sportscar the Mustang is for Indian roads.

The steering offers good feel and feedback but could have been slightly better. Braking performance is great and the car sheds speeds in no time. The driving experience of the Mustang is very engaging and this is a mad car and it also loves going sideways at the drop of a hat. In terms of safety features, the Mustang has you covered. There are multiple airbags, Traction Control, ESP and Hill Launch Assist.

The Mustang has exclusive service centres where the car is available, however, costs of spares would be on the costlier side as the vehicle is a CBU model and components have to be imported. The Ford Mustang has a lot going for it. It is a multi-faceted car which can be enjoyed on the racetrack, for daily use and even on long highway trips. At Rs 74.62 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the vehicle isn't cheap but what you get for that price is an instant attention magnet sportscar that looks good, is loaded with features and drives really well.

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Audi A4 Diesel Review

The Audi 80 was the car that marked the automaker's foray in the entry-level luxury car segment. The A4 has grown ever since. The A4 B7 was launched in 2007 while the B8 version came out after a few years. The new Audi A4 is known as the B9 variant. The luxury sedan may pass off as a minor refresh to the casual observer but look closely and you notice that there are more than a few changes.

The styling feels more premium now and the body line looks sleek. The A4 carries a much sharper face now that is accentuated by the redesigned grille and the Matrix LED headlights which are a party piece of the vehicle. The side profile is classy as ever which is also the case with most German cars. The rear is again simple and neat and the LED tail-lights look striking at night.

The dashboard, centre console, door pads and all the other panels are made up of soft-touch materials which feel extremely premium. The steering wheel feels great to hold but it is a tad large in size. The gear selection knob, which is shared with the Q7, also feels nice. There is premium leather all around and Audi has definitely taken the interiors of the A4 a couple of notches ahead. You get the MMI infotainment system that also offers support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There's also a neatly integrated reverse parking camera which is pretty useful in a car of this length.

The seats are very supportive but the rear seats are a bit on the stiffer side. However, the seats are suited for people of all sizes. You also get a large and comfortable arm rest at the rear. The air conditioner is a 3-zone unit and does a good job of cooling the insides. You get a memory function for only the driver's seat and not for the front passenger. You also get two convenience keys with the car (one each for the owner and chauffeur). Apart from all this, there is a sunroof on offer along with manual window blinds at the rear. The well-shaped boot can hold 480-litres of cargo.

The fifth-generation Audi A4 comes with the same 1.4-litre TFSI petrol engine that also powers the Audi A3. The turbocharged mill produces 150 HP and pumps out 250 Nm of torque. There is also a diesel engine on offer and our test car was powered by the same. The 2.0-litre oil burner is an absolute peach as it is terrifically refined, very punchy and revs quite fast to the 4700 RPM redline. Producing 188 HP and 400 Nm, the A4 diesel goes from 0 to 100 km/hr in just 8 seconds while the top speed is 237 km/hr.

Drivability is great and low-end lag is well contained while the mid-range is strong. The A4 comes with 4 drive modes - Comfort, Auto, Dynamic and Individual (they alter the engine/gearbox and steering weight), there is no Eco mode as the A4 is quite frugal even without it, retuning a fuel economy between 12-14 km/l. Mated to this engine is a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox which is fast with shifts and you can also manually take control of the gears using the lever or the steering mounted paddles.

The new Audi A4 has an electric steering which feels very light in the city and it weighs up superbly as the speeds increase. It also feels very direct and precise, thus making the A4 a very fun car to drive. The A4 is a good handler and body movement feels controlled and predictable. On the ride front, the suspension is softly sprung which results in a very plush ride at low to medium speeds. High speed ride is also excellent and the sedan can tackle even the nastier bumps without much fuss. The A4 comes with disc brakes all around and the pedal has good bite while stopping power is indeed impressive.

Progress is definitely intense and the new Audi A4 proves just that. The car has evolved a lot and has improved significantly in many areas. The overall package is very promising and the A4 excels in most departments. The German sedan is priced between Rs. 50 to 57.15 lakhs (on-road, Mumbai) and is available in 5 variants and 3 trims.

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Hyundai Verna Long Term Review

The Hyundai Verna has always given very tough competition to the Honda City. The Korean automaker launched the new generation of the Verna in 2017 and this sedan packs in petrol and diesel engine options with both manual and automatic variants. The sedan is also popular for its features but how does this car really fare in day-to-day conditions? To find out, we at MotorBeam had the Hyundai Verna 1.6 diesel manual in our long term fleet.

The overall design of the Hyundai Verna, though inspired by the Elantra looks very elegant and snazzy. Hyundai is also offering some funky colours like Orange with the Verna and these shades are usually preferred by younger customers. The latest generation looks more proportionate and the sloping roofline does have a sporty feel. The top of the line variants also get 16-inch diamond cut alloy wheels.

One of the main selling points for Hyundai cars has been their easy to drive nature. Though it doesn't cater to enthusiasts, a lot of people prefer a light steering over responsive feedback. For driving in the city and especially while parking, the lighter steering is often appreciated. Hyundai even offers an automatic transmission with both petrol and diesel engines. 

Another domain where Hyundai has improved the Verna compared to the previous generation is in terms of ride quality and driving dynamics. The ride is so much more comfortable and stable at higher speeds. There is still some amount of body roll around corners but overall the ride is wonderful. The refined diesel engine has a lot of punch on offer and offers incredible acceleration. The 6-speed manual gearbox is smooth to shift and the clutch is also on the lighter side. The diesel engine has good drive-ability and is also very fuel-efficient, returning us an average fuel efficiency of around 14 km/l which is very good considering the Verna is the most powerful car in its segment.

Hyundai has always disrupted the competition with the number of features it loads into its cars. However, adding ventilated seats to that list takes it to a whole new level, especially in this summer season where it has proved to be a godsend. This feature is not even available in many D-segment cars and here's Hyundai offering a hands-free trunk in the Verna. Even the large sunroof adds to this premium feel.

The touchscreen infotainment system is responsive and comes with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The AC cools the cabin in no time and the sound quality out of the stock speakers is also very good. As it is with all Hyundais, the quality of the materials used is good and the cabin feels premium, practical and well put-together.

Nevertheless, there is something which the competition does better and that is rear seat space. It has always been a weak point for the Verna and the current generation continues this tradition. There is not enough headroom for tall passengers due to the coupe-like roofline and knee room could have also been better. However, keeping this aside, the new Hyundai Verna is actually a good package and we're not surprised to see why it's selling in such good numbers. 

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2019 Volkswagen Polo GT TSI

It's been almost a decade since the current generation Volkswagen Polo was first launched in India. If you look at the Polo's rivals, you'd notice that all of them have undergone generation changes in this decade while the Polo continues to soldier on with cosmetic and equipment updates every now and then. The new generation Polo has been launched globally but it won't be coming to India anytime soon, meanwhile the head honchos at VW India have given their hatchback another minor update. We drive the 2019 Volkswagen Polo GT TSI to see whether this premium hatchback still makes for a sensible purchase. 

On the outside, not much has changed and when you look at the current Polo, it doesn't feel very outdated because this design has surely aged well. Of course, other manufacturers have been offering more striking designs with sharp lines but it is the Polo that still cuts it for people who want a graceful and minimalist design. The 2019 model comes with 16-inch grey coloured alloys and they do suit the hatchback really well now, improving its stance too. 

Again, barely any changes on the inside of the 2019 Polo. You get a sense of familiarity when you step inside the cabin and the all-black layout looks good and fits well to the sporty image set out by the GT. The quality everywhere continues to remain top-notch and better than rivals too. The centre console houses a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Bluetooth/USB connectivity. 

A reverse camera is sorely missed because even cheaper hatchbacks come with one now. The Polo also misses out on a start/stop button and projector headlamps, yes it still gets halogens which really don't offer adequate throw. While the seats are fairly comfortable, space at the rear continues to be a concern. Safety features include two front airbags, ABS with EBD and traction control.

What we still love about the Volkswagen Polo GT is that lovely 1.2-litre, 4-cylinder TSI petrol mill and the state-of-the-art 7-speed DSG and this engine-gearbox combo is still best-in-class. The engine is a gem, it has oodles of punch and it can just pull the Polo on and on. It scores high on the refinement front too and at high RPMs, there's just a consistent thrum that you get to hear. Performance never disappoints and the cherry on the cake is the gearbox which is quick and smooth, but does feel a bit confused at low speeds.

Handling and ride quality are other prowesses of this Volkswagen and the suspension cushions out potholes very nicely. The steering is well-weighed and is quite precise though we feel some more feedback would've been better. The Polo is agile, always eager to dive into corners and it maintains its line very well. Braking power is decent too and the 16-inchers do a good job of not only improving the grip but also offering better stability to the car. 

The Volkswagen Polo does feel a bit old in the segment but nowhere has it become boring. The Petrol-AT variant is hard to beat and this car offers a very good driving feel along with its premium quality interiors. Where the Polo lags is its cabin space and the fact that some vital features are missing, especially when you see that the GT TSI costs Rs. 11 lakhs (on-road, Mumbai). 

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Tata Nexon Long Term Review

With the launch of the Nexon, Tata Motors has made its presence felt in the compact sub-4-metre SUV space. The brand has been introducing new cars in new segments. At the same time, in a segment where there's already a lot of competition, the Nexon has been doing well. We got the Tata Nexon diesel in our long term fleet a couple of months back and after having used it for city and highway drives, we've come to really like the car. 

There are a lot of reasons for the Tata Nexon's success, including the value-for-money price, feature-loaded interiors, powerful and efficient diesel engine and the comfortable ride. The design of the Nexon is also very radical with the high ground clearance and the bright Moroccan Blue shade which grab some attention.

The interior with the floating screen and practical dashboard looks quite modern and upscale. Tata's ConnectNext infotainment system is extremely easy to use and offers great audio quality. It offers all the modern connectivity options including Apple CarPlay. The driver seat is not only height adjustable but also offers good visibility and is suitable for short drivers. The front seats are very spacious while the rear seats are best suited for two passengers.

However, there are still some ergonomic quirks in the cabin. The lack of cupholders at the front and the placement of the door unlock button right next to the boot release button is quite apparent. After starting the car, the reverse camera takes its own sweet time to turn on and the quality of the camera isn't great either. Quality of materials used in certain places could have been better and the electricals are not programmed well as they sometimes don't register a click or keep glitching out.

Tata has added some interesting features in the Nexon, such as the fog lamps which double up as the cornering lights in the dark for that added visibility. Even the driving modes affect the fuel economy and the throttle response and do not feel gimmicky. The Sport mode actually makes the car feel sporty and more responsive. While on the other hand, shift into Eco mode and the power becomes linear and composed. We generally drive the car in City mode where power delivery is adequate and the fuel efficiency doesn't get compromised either.

The 1.5-litre diesel engine producing 110 PS and 260 Nm of torque offers great in gear acceleration and reaches triple-digit speeds in no time. In Sport mode, there is a sudden wave of torque when you hit the turbo band, which is something one has to get used to. The acceleration in Sport mode is insane as the motor keeps pulling relentlessly even in 6th gear. There is minimal turbo lag. The 6-speed manual gearbox could have been better as it feels notchy and the clutch, though on the lighter side, has a very long travel.

Despite such punchy performance and AC at full blast, the Nexon has been returning us an average fuel efficiency of nearly 16.8 km/l, which is pretty respectable given Mumbai's traffic conditions. Tata has also invested heavily in making all their cars safe and reliable. The Nexon comes with dual airbags, ABS and EBD as standard. Tata even offers wider section tyres that provide additional grip. The Nexon has received a stellar 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP, making it the first car from an Indian manufacturer to score so good on the safety front. 

The ride quality of the Tata Nexon is very impressive. Tata has tuned the suspension to suit Indian road conditions and it shows as the ride quality is the best-in-class. It glides over the worst of patches and thanks to the high ground clearance, you don't have to worry about clearing tall speed breakers. At high speeds, the ride does become bouncy sometimes but overall it's very good. The car handles well for its size and feels stable at high speeds. Body roll is well contained and the brakes feel surefooted. The light steering makes parking and manoeuvring in the city easy while weighing up at higher speeds. The steering could have provided more feedback but overall the Nexon is fun and easy to drive.

Another area where Tata Motors has improved excessively is in terms of after-sales service. Not only have their cars become more reliable but the quality of service offered at Tata service centres has become very good. The service costs are very reasonable too. All in all, we don't have any major complaints with our Nexon long term test car. With the rains arriving soon, the high ground clearance will definitely come in to be useful in waterlogged areas too.

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Hyundai Elite i20 Long Term Review

The Hyundai i20 has always been popular for its simplicity and convenience. It has been one of the best premium hatchbacks in the market since it was launched back in 2008. The refined and punchy diesel engine along with the spacious interiors made it an instant hit amongst buyers. Hyundai has continued to update the i20 to keep it on par with its competition.

On the outside, it may be difficult to differentiate the i20 with the pre-facelift model. However, Hyundai has done some minor changes to refresh its design such as giving it new alloy wheels and new bumpers. The i20 still looks premium and handsome. The compact dimensions of the i20 make it easy to manoeuvre in stop-go traffic. It also gets a reverse camera which makes parking a breeze. The i20 is a very good car for day-to-day commuting.

On the inside, as with every Hyundai, the i20 is well loaded and adequately spacious. The boot is big enough to pack bags for a short drive while the infotainment system offers great sound quality. It comes with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity and is smooth to use. The AC chills the cabin effectively. The interior is also very practical offering you various places to store small items such as sunglasses in the holder. The seats are comfortable and the quality of materials used is also very good. The fit and finish have also improved. It is also well loaded in terms of safety equipment and the top variant comes with 6 airbags.

The 1.4-litre CRDI diesel engine is extremely refined and punchy making it appropriate for city driving. The motor does lose some punch in the top-end but is very smooth. It is also very fuel efficient as it returned us a mileage of over 16 km/l with full AC. It has minimal turbo lag and is apt for both city and highway duties. NVH levels are also well controlled and gear shifts are also quite smooth. 

One of the main selling points of the i20 is its easy to drive nature. The light steering and the light clutch make the i20 effortless to drive. The soft suspension gives it exceptional ride quality. While the steering wheel doesn't weigh up enough on the highway, inside the city, it is very much appreciated. The steering also doesn't offer adequate feedback, especially around the corners. Handling though due to the soft suspension isn't fabulous but the ride quality makes up for it. There is definitely some amount of body roll on offer.

The i20 is oriented more towards comfort and practicality than performance and dynamics. The light steering and compact dimensions mean that you don't have to worry about parking or lose your temper while driving in peak traffic. The i20 may surely be expensive, however, it offers sedan like features in hatchback form factor, something which can't be taken for granted these days. The feature-loaded interiors and outstanding ride quality allow you to enjoy your ride while the fuel-efficient engine does its job in the background. All this makes the Hyundai Elite i20 one of the best premium hatchbacks in the market today.

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Audi Q5 Petrol Review

Audi has revised their mid-size SUV by giving it some cosmetic and mechanical updates. The Q5 comes with both petrol and diesel powertrain options, we drive the former, as it is the most powerful Q5 that you can buy (until the SQ5 arrives). The Audi Q5 sits between the Q3 and Q7 in Audi's India line-up.

The SUV is sized appropriately with typical Audi design. The huge hexagonal grille up-front reminds you of the Q7. There are large air-scoops on the bumpers and the headlights with neatly executed LED DRLs that look quite smart. The highlight of the Q5's design has to be the crease that connects the headlights to the tail-lights. It gives a sense of continuity and stability. The rear, too, is typical Audi with familiar tail-lights and chrome exhausts.

The interiors are finished in black and beige adorned by subtle silver finishes. There is a 3-zone climate control and a standalone 8.3-inch infotainment system on the centre console. It supports Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and navigation and is operated by the rotary controller. There is also an MMI touchpad with multiple gesture shortcut for easy operation of the infotainment system. The electrically adjustable front seats are very comfortable and come with 4-way lumbar support. The driver is also greeted by a 12.3-inch cockpit digital instrument cluster. Legroom and headroom, at the rear, is sufficient but the passengers miss out on a USB port. The Q5 also gets a large panoramic sunroof.

Using the same engine as the Q7, the Q5 petrol is badged 45 TFSI and outputs 252 HP and 370 Nm from its 2.0-litre motor, claiming a sprint time of 6.3 seconds from 0-100 km/hr, the top speed is rated at 237 km/hr. There is some lag lower down but once you get past 2200 RPM, the turbo kicks in full flow and offers some serious mid-range performance. Power continues in the top-end too as it screams to its 6500 RPM redline. There are 6 drive modes on offer and in Dynamic mode, the motor feels more eager and holds on to the redline in each gear.

The petrol Q5 is mated to a 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission which is quick but jerky compared to the torque converter unit found in the Q7. You can use the gear-lever or the paddle shifters to manually take control of the shifts. The fuel-efficiency is 8 km/l in the city and 10 km/l on the highway.

The Q5 comes equipped with Audi’s famed Quattro all-wheel-drive system which ensures grip at all times, even when driving in the rains with the Traction Control off, there is no wheel spin. Ride quality on the Q5, with adaptable dampers, is stellar. In Dynamic mode, the suspension stiffens up and the handling becomes tighter, body roll being well contained. However, the steering doesn’t offer the best feel and feedback.

The Audi Q5 petrol makes a strong case for itself. The petrol engine is more refined and more powerful than the diesel counterpart and it will appeal to the driving enthusiasts. Audi targets to sell more than 50% of its cars with a petrol engine by the end of this decade and we think the Q5 is a good start for that target. The only sore point is that the petrol-powered Q5 has average fuel-efficiency (compared to the diesel) but if you don't drive a lot and want a more refined driving experience, the petrol Q5 is the one to go for.

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Honda Gold Wing Review

The Honda Gold Wing has been the gold standard of long-distance touring bikes for over four decades now. Currently, the vehicle is in its seventh generation. We got a chance to ride the sixth generation of this comfy beast and tell you all about it.

A first glance at the Honda Gold Wing and you will be shocked by its massive dimensions. The bike grabs a lot of attention on the road. The huge headlights, the fat tyres and the gigantic rear profile give the Gold Wing incredible presence on the road. The bodywork and fairing not only give the bike its massive stance but are also aerodynamically compliant. The manually adjustable long windshield offers great protection from windblast. You also get a small spoiler on top of the top box which looks cool and also helps in reducing the drag co-efficient. 

The Honda Gold Wing comes loaded with features and has tons of buttons and switches. To start with, you get a button for your heated seats below the digital display along with the buttons to operate the infotainment system. The RHS houses the switch to alternate between the headlights and also adjust the suspension. You can also find the buttons for the cruise control and the reverse gear this side. Whereas, the LHS has buttons for the hazard lights, indicators, switch to toggle the beams and a button to sound the horn. It also gets an AUX port and buttons to adjust the volume. The instrument cluster has three analogue pods which house the speedometer, tachometer, engine temperature and the fuel level. It also has a digital display which shows the odometer, trip meter and also the active radio frequency.

The Honda Gold Wing is designed for serious long distance touring and the ergonomics help you do that efficiently. The upright seating posture along with the wide handlebar and centre set foot pegs helps you find a comfortable riding position easily. The mirrors give a good view of what's behind and the seats are extremely comfortable. The pillion gets a large backrest and is very comfortable for long rides. It also gets heated seats and heated grips for that added pleasure.

The sixth generation Honda Gold Wing is powered by a 1833cc, 6-cylinder engine that produces 118 HP of power and 167 Nm of torque. The engine is extremely refined and has a good punch. Open the throttle and this engine pulls gracefully. It's very responsive lower down and also has a charming sound to it. This engine is mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox which also has a reverse gear which is useful while parking.

One could definitely feel each gram of the 400 kgs weight of the Gold Wing while manoeuvring in traffic, on open roads and high speeds it is a whole different story. The soft suspension and the splendid ride quality offer amazing high-speed stability. On bad roads, the ride does become bouncy. Handling too is great for its size and the Gold Wing feels effortless to ride.

The Honda Gold Wing is the bike which every cruiser motorcycle looks up to. It has an outstanding presence, a punchy engine and all the necessary features a person could dream of. The ride is exceptionally comfortable and also fun. While the price may be on the higher side if you are looking for a motorcycle in this segment, you can count out Honda's reliability and outstanding service support.

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Ford EcoSport S Long Term Review

Since its launch in 2013, the Ford EcoSport has seen a lot of success in the Indian market thanks to its muscular design and Ford's continuous effort of keeping the EcoSport updated and competitive. With the EcoSport S, Ford has done just that by providing the vehicle a much-needed update that lends it a sporty appeal.

The Ford EcoSport is basically the car which kickstarted the compact SUV segment in India. Ford has done a great job of refreshing the EcoSport's design and not letting it age. The minor cosmetic enhancements not only improve the look but also make the EcoSport S look beefier. The top of the line S variant gets snazzy new 17-inch alloy wheels. The rear mounted spare wheel still makes operating the boot a bit difficult but gives the car a rugged look.

The interiors also offer a great amount of comfort, even for longer durations. Ford's SYNC3 UI is not only easy to use but also quick to respond and is much better than what the competition has to offer. It also gets a sunroof and ambient lighting. Audio quality is fantastic and the cabin feels sporty due to the use of the orange accents.

The suspension is on the stiffer side which leads to a stiff ride. On the plus side, the stiffer suspension leads to impressive handling. However, due to the fat alloy wheels and low profile rubber, the ride quality gets seriously affected. The EcoSport offers the best dynamics of any compact SUV in its segment but the ride quality is just better on lower variants which do not have such big tyres. The light steering offers great feedback which makes the EcoSport S fun to drive. 

You can hear very little of the refined diesel engine inside the cabin. The gearbox offers fluid shifts and thanks to the light clutch, driving the EcoSport in the city has become even simpler.  The engine has a great amount of punch which makes overtaking and cruising on the highways a breeze. There is a minor amount of turbo-lag but the car remains stable at high speeds.

The engine is also quite fuel efficient, returning us a mileage of around 14-15 km/l in mix driving conditions. The brakes offer good stopping power and thanks to the wider tyres, there is ample amount of grip around the corners. It is also well loaded in terms of safety equipment and the S variant comes with 6 airbags and ABS.

Ford has still not managed to equip the EcoSport with an automatic gearbox on the diesel powerplant which is really disappointing as all cars in its segment offer one. An automatic transmission makes driving in stop-go traffic a lot less tiring and is ideal for someone who is looking to drive this compact SUV for long periods of time on a daily basis. 

Despite the few shortcomings, the Ford EcoSport is still one of the best compact SUVs in the market today. The feature-loaded interiors offer immense practicality and the punchy diesel engine along with superb dynamics make the EcoSport a great choice for enthusiasts. There are a lot of variants on offer with both petrol and diesel engine options. Due to heavy localisation, Ford has also been able to price the EcoSport aggressively. Those on the lookout for a fun, practical and convenient compact SUV will not be disappointed by the Ford EcoSport.

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Renault Duster AWD Long Term Review

The Renault Duster has been the budget go-anywhere compact SUV since it was launched way back in 2012. This vehicle changed the market dynamics completely and also gave Renault a head start in India. With a constant deterioration in the conditions of roads, SUVs have become a popular option for most new buyers. Renault went one step further and launched an All Wheel Drive variant to take the Duster's rugged and off-roading capabilities to the next level.

On the outside, Renault has given the Duster facelift some cosmetic enhancements but nothing major. The quality levels are average and the fit and finish is satisfactory at best. Although, Renault has added a touch screen infotainment system with built-in navigation. It is a little slow to respond and takes a long time to boot.

The interiors also feel dated and equipment levels are not high either. On a side note, the boot is extremely spacious and with the rear seats folded, it can carry a lot of luggage. While the interiors have a basic feel, the cabin is quite practical with a good number of storage spaces. The seats are comfortable too and there is good space on the inside.

On the other hand, the 1.5-litre diesel engine which churns out a healthy 110 PS of power and 245 Nm of torque offers great performance. There is virtually no turbo lag and the engine is very smooth. The 6-speed manual transmission syncs well and keeps the engine going. We got a fuel economy of around 12.2 km/l in Auto mode where the car automatically switches over to All Wheel Drive mode if needed. The fuel economy on 2WD mode is similar to the regular Duster.

Even the dynamics of the Renault Duster are very good. The ride quality is phenomenal and the steering offers great feedback. Handling too is very precise and the Duster is an enthusiast's dream come true with its rugged nature and excellent dynamics. The suspension is so good, it just gobbles up potholes for breakfast and glides over bad roads.

Coming to off-roading abilities of the Renault Duster, it gets very decent approach, roll over and departure angles which can take on almost any road condition. The high ground clearance and flared wheel arches mean that you don't have to worry about damaging your SUV when you decide to go off-road. Switch the car into AWD mode and it will help you recover from almost any situation. 

In spite of the great off-road capabilities of the Duster, if you are someone who doesn't encounter bad roads on a regular basis or doesn't have the thrill of off-roading, the front-wheel-drive variant is more than enough. Something which the Duster excels at is reliability as this car will never fail you even in the toughest of terrains.

With the 7 years the Duster has been on sale in India, Renault has tried to update it and keep it relevant amongst its competition. It has plenty of engine and transmission options including an AMT for that added convenience. The AMT offers a lot of convenience and has decent driveability. It is ideal for someone looking to have the practicality of a diesel and the utility of an automatic.

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Honda CB1100 RS Review

While technology might be evolving at unbelievable speed, in terms of design and looks, old is still gold. Honda also believes in this ideology and has two motorcycles to win the hearts of enthusiasts, the CB1100 RS and CB1100 EX. Both motorcycles are built with modern technologies but designed like retro bikes.

The Honda CB1100 RS is meant to be sportier of the two and thus has a cafe-racer style design. While the CB1100 EX is supposed to resemble a retro superbike. The RS gets a round LED headlight, round mirrors and a classic LED tail-light. We particularly appreciate the attention to detail Honda has put in, such as the classic slim turn indicators and the gold touches.The pillion grab handle is just a strap, which isn't very comfortable. The dual chrome exhaust pipes look neat and add to the retro vibe of the motorcycle. The black finishing on the engine offers a good contrast to the chrome highlights. Sadly, it doesn't get a windscreen which does result in windblast when cruising.

The café racer style riding position has a bit of a lean in but is still comfortable for short durations. However, for long rides, it will take a toll on your body. The cluster is also old-school with twin round pods housing a speedometer and tachometer respectively. It also has a digital display in between the pods which displays a variety of information such as a clock and a gear position indicator. The quality of the switchgear and the buttons is fabulous.

The Honda CB1100 RS is powered by a 1140cc, 4-cylinder, 16-valve engine producing 88 HP of power and 93.5 Nm of torque. The engine has a wonderful low-end punch and is also very refined. This motor is very smooth but heats up in traffic. The 6-speed transmission is smooth to shift and also has a slipper clutch on offer. Something great which Honda has been able to achieve is the retro exhaust note on this motorcycle. It is not only music to the ears but also misfires occasionally to complete the retro package of this astounding motorcycle.

The Honda CB1100 RS' Showa sourced suspension is tuned to be on the stiffer side which offers excellent ride quality on good roads. On bad roads though, it does suffer. One can adjust the preload of both the front and rear suspension. Something which doesn't suffer is the brakes which have great stopping power. The front gets dual discs while the rear gets a single disc. The flat handlebar along with the exceptional grip from the tyres offer superb handling.  Honda has masked the weight of the motorcycle as one doesn't feel the 252 kgs of heft around the corners.

Honda has done a great job of combining the dynamics of a modern superbike and looks of a retro cafe racer. The bike can cruise comfortably with the punchy engine and pleasing exhaust note. It also boasts of great ride and handling dynamics, should you encounter any long sweeping corners. The motorcycle does heat up in traffic and isn't very comfortable for long rides due to the cafe racer style riding position and lack of a windscreen. However, if Honda decides the launch this retro beauty in India, it will surely win the hearts of both old and young enthusiasts who are looking to relive the good old days.