Apr 17, 2007 10:56 PM
11610 Views
I had reviewed Honda City 1.5EXi a little while back, and had promised to get back with the review of the ZX CVT. Well, I got one, and am driving it for the past 6 weeks now. I have clocked about 2500km, and have done several full tanks, so I can claim experience enough to write a review.
SInce I drove the 2004 Honda 1.5EXi before this, I found this car much the same. Except that its an automatic. And after driving it all this while, I am wondering how I managed without it so long. Delhi is one city for stop-and-go traffic, and the CVT handles it beautifully. Foot on the brake: the car is waiting for the motorcycle in front of you to give way. As soon as it moves, just take your foot off the brake, and the car inches forward sluggishly, just enough to trail the guy in front of you. Sudeenly the motorcycle brakes, and you do too. No fear of engine stopping. It will never happen in the CVT. And unlike the 1st and 2nd gear of manuals, the ride is silky smooth at the lower gear ratios.
When I am on the open highway, and merrily breezing at 80 kmph, I happened to look at the RPM. What? Still 1800 rpm? Unbelievable. Obviously, the computer inside is doing a great job. From 10 to 80, the RPM remains below 2000 as long as you do not accelerate too fast.
The greatest thing is the fuel economy. Many told me that an automatic gives 0.5-1.0 kmpl less. Hold your breath! I got more than 14, the latest being 14.7, with AC? Cannot believe it? Better believe it. With no gear changing taking away the power, and the RPM below 2000, you get that kind of mileage. Of course, I am using Speed 97 petrol from BP, the best you can get.
The suspension is stiffer than before. Not so good at the back, I agree. That has always been my sore point with it. Well, you cannot have it all.
The Alpine CD player and the speakers are all right, nothing great.
