Another year has passed in a flash, but the pandemic is still here. For car buyers, that means staying safe in an air-conditioned car rather than an Ola or Uber.
Yes, buying a car has skyrocketed the list of priorities. But unfortunately the manufacturers could not cash in because critical parts are in short supply worldwide. As a result, the waiting lists stretch for months and even a year. But despite this turbulence, over 30 new models were launched this year. Which impressed the most? Here are my top 5 in alphabetical order.
The Volkswagen Taigun
1 Hyundai Alcazar
The Hyundai Alcazar is more than just an elongated creta. Unique to this six- and seven-seater Hyundai is more equipment, a pair of plush captain’s seats and a new 2-liter engine in conjunction with a smooth automatic transmission that makes it very city-friendly. It’s cramped compared to other seven-seaters, but its “not too big, not too small” footprint makes it easy to maneuver and park.
2 Mahindra XUV700
The Mahindra XUV700
Mahindra has put everything possible into the XUV700 and the result is an SUV that stands out from the competition. The silky smooth and powerful pair of diesel engines and gasoline engines are in a class of their own, which makes driving the XUV700 a pleasure. The spacious cabin, richly equipped with a high-tech infotainment system and overwhelming equipment, spoils the passengers. It is one of those rare products that became an icon before it even reached customers’ hands. As things stand, you won’t be able to get your hands on one until 2023 at the earliest!
3 Renault Kiger
The Renault Kiger
The Renault Kiger is at the budget end of the compact SUV segment, but with its spacious cabin, sturdy suspension and easy handling, it doesn’t feel cheap. Features like a fully digital instrument panel, multiple driving modes, and ambient lighting for the cabin are the things you will only find in more expensive cars. There are two engine options; the base 1.0 petrol is pretty weak, but the 1.0 turbo has enough momentum and is the right one. You can have this compact SUV for hatchback money and hence the value of the Kiger is hard to beat
4. Skoda Kushaq / VW Taigun
The Skoda Kushaq
The Skoda Kushaq and Volkswagen Taigun are merged because both models belong to the same parent (the VW Group) and share the same suspension, engines and other mechanical parts under the skin. The interiors are a little small and not as luxurious as their competitors’, but both SUVs have the best driveability and handling in their class and a strong pair of turbo gasoline engines to add to their sporty dynamics. Looks matter when choosing – Kushaq is sharp-edged; Taigun handsome.
5 Safari settings
The Tata Safari
As a product, the Tata Safari may be dwarfed by the XUV700, but the Safari’s honesty is adorable. The Land Rover pedigree shows in how it beats bad roads and the third row is surprisingly spacious. The engine is powerful but feels a bit rough and the infotainment system and analog instrumentation look outdated.
The columnist’s views are personal
From HT Brunch, December 26, 2021
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