BHPian marutifan recently shared this with other enthusiasts: We had a test drive of the Victoris mild hybrid AT model. My feedback is from someone who drives only manual transmission cars and this is unlikely to change in the near future.ExteriorsI like how the car looks. As someone who prefers simple yet functional designs, the Victoris is a clear winner. Color combinations have created an intense debate at home over which one to buy. I think either mystic green or white, but I am facing stiff competition at home. Doors feel solid and close with a nice thud. Leaning against the doors from outside did not result in any panels flexing. Overall, the build feels very solid.InteriorsFront seats are super comfortable. One can adjust the height, inclination, forward/backward position and under thigh support, among other adjustments. Ventilated seats work well and the AC works well to cool the cabin. Back seats are comfortable and rear blowers work well to cool the back bench. This will be a very comfortable car even for long drives. Inside the car, road and outside noises are well insulated, NVH levels are low. The music system was switched off, so I couldn’t test the speakers or the woofer.ADASI didn’t get a chance to test ADAS fully. I tried within the limits given that I didn’t want to take any undue risks. Lane departure works well, I’ve seen videos where using the turn indicator switches on a view from the rear camera into the driver console. This feature isn’t available on the Victoris. I live in the city suburbs, so testing of any type of cruise control was not practical.EngineHaving tested the automatic, I get all the brickbats about perceived engine performance. Not that it’s bad, but starting from a standstill, pickup in 1st and 2nd gears feels a little slow compared to my Grand Vitara or Creta, both of which have manual transmissions. Having said that, it’s smooth and does reach speed limits soon enough. Keeping up with other vehicles and overtaking them is not an issue, even with 4 adults in the car with the AC switched on. The only thing to keep in mind is that this car is not meant to win any drag races.Driving ExperienceI’m not a fan of automatics. I am planning on buying one as my better half is planning on crossing over. Suspension is good even over bumps or worn-out roads. Steering is predictable. Overall handling is excellent. LED projector headlights have very good throw and spread, along with auto dimming so as not to blind opposite traffic. 360 degree cameras help with tight parking or even navigating through narrow passages. As mentioned above, Maruti missed a feature in not using the digital console to display video from rear cameras while using the turn indicator. I’ve had my side rear-view mirrors damaged enough times to know this is a must-have feature, especially when there is a display offered that would support it.Final ThoughtsI predict a winner from Maruti. As an early, soon-to-be adopter, I hope there are no niggles with the new features, like the new digital console and ADAS. I also wish the strong hybrid would come with ADAS. Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.
