Getting to the car, everything has been covered in detail by esteemed members of the forum, but I would still like to add some things I noticed (in no particular order) coming from the barebone interiors of a Fortuner and a Ertiga
BHPIAN WANNITE recently shared this with other enthusiasts:
I went to my nearest Nexa dealer today (literally less than half a kilometer from home) to check out the Grand Vitara Strong Hybrid. Unfortunately, they only had pre-update Mild Hybrid Manuals on display, which is not a big deal as both cars are almost the same cosmetically, save for a difference of few features, but still a little bit of a letdown.
Nevertheless, we did get to check the car out at a leisurely pace with nobody pestering us constantly. I did not opt for a test drive because the Strong Hybrid wasn’t available for a test drive either. However, as per my request, they were eager to provide a 40 km-ish test drive (Dehradun to Mohand and back) at my convenience.
- Pictures on the internet do not do justice to the interiors of this car. In real life, the interiors do feel premium to touch with all the relevant touch points covered in soft and cushy material.
- The front driver’s seat feels comfortable and ergonomically sound for a person of my height (5’6) and medium build. The extendable armrest is perfectly positioned for my build.
- The much-debated AC vent flow controller felt durable.
- While I did find the backrest to be a bit too upright, my Mum was absolutely fine with it.
- The pre-update thin sunroof cover seems useless, as noted by other members. The salesperson acknowledged that fact as well.
- The front doors closed in the first try and closed with a satisfying thud. Same for the rear doors. Moreover, I do not mind the window armrest controls as they have a damped action which is okay enough.
- The key fob is very basic.
- The car was equipped with Apollo Apterra Cross tyres.
Overall, at the price the car is being offered (unfortunately, no Hybrid subsidy in Uttarakhand as per the sales person) – Rs 20,56,305 approx. with room for 50K more to be negotiated, the car doesn’t make a strong case for itself, especially considering other cars near the price range offer much, much more in every aspect except fuel economy. A lakh or two more is nothing in terms of monthly EMI payment over a period of 5 or 7 years.
Final thoughts- the car does feel like a jack of all trades and master of none. The decision to finalize Grand Vitara will be pending a long test drive and me checking out Creta / Seltos / Thar Roxx /ScorpioN over the coming days. Having said all this, if the Thar Roxx tugs the heart strings a bit too strongly, I might convince dad to just book it at the spot and not go back to Nexa even for the test drive.
Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.
