Aug 21, 2010 07:56 PM
11894 Views
(Updated May 20, 2011 11:30 AM)
I picked up Manza on17th August (1st day of Chingam month of malayalam). Color- grey noir from RF motors, Kochi. I am so far satisfied with dealers who have given me a good discount and have answered all queries with ease.
One of the first things you notice about the car is its sheer size. I am used to driving Fiat petra 1.6 litre. But frankly, my new car is a lot bigger than fiat petra and looks very elegant and rich.
Although I did a test drive couple of times on Aura+, it was the first time I actually saw the base model and was happy to see things like- good blaupunkt car stereo, charger behind the rear seat, light in the glove box, tilt steering, mirror on co-driver's visor, front power windows, central locking.
Although I was aware of some of these fixtures, seeing them work is what matters. I am glad I went for the base model which is a lot cheaper than next version (about Rs 36000/-)and has most basic things that one would require in a car. All these features are not there in any of the base models of competitors in this segment. Well Tata's have done a good job in raising the bar in the base model of entry level sedans.
The drive is smooth. I live in hills of munnar and car moves effortlessly at 5500 ft elevation with very good pick up. There are no sounds as one expected after reading some reviews. However, I will be cautious here and would wait for clocking at least 10000 kms before I pass judgement. I do feel that I will require parking sensors as rear visibility is a bit of an issue. I think with the money saved from not buying higher version, I can afford minor luxury.
Another pleasant surprise was the headlight. The motorized function is just too good. Lights are very bright and fill up the front completely without any gaps. This is definately very good designing, especially since lights appear to be somewhat on sides.
Now for couple of things that have annoyed me. These are:
Delay in getting the car- The delivery took a much as 6 weeks. I was told that base model petrolavailability is the reason. Another hitch is simultaneous release of BS3 and BS4 models in each category. This is creating delays for some people and I was one of them.
Poor gear box- the gears are hard. Especially after driving a fiat vehicle, I am feeling disappointed here. I think Tata's may have something to learn from their fiat counterparts.
Speedometer needle too sensitive and doesn't stay in place.
4.Well... can't think of any right now. May be after I drive a few hundred kilometers. Let's hope not.
Overall, I feel that car is very good. Though Tata cars are liked by many taxi drivers, I am sure this car is about to change perceptions in minds of quality conscious customers as well.
Update... 1400 kms:
Car has completed 1400 kms. 1st free service is over. I was surprised to find that oil change is not required for 20000 kms as it is synthetic oil. Defect of speedometer was corrected by changing a sensor (this was done free of cost). Gear box is much smoother. Overall, ride quality has improved. The mileage so far has been only 10.5 kms per litre. The car has run 50% with a/c (in plains) and rest in high ranges. Recently 5 people travelled about 300 kms in a day (plains and hills combined) and car moved efforlessly.
I got the rear sensor fixed at RF motors and find it a useful feature for a car of this size. Now parking in tight spots and reversing in a crowded market is much easier and safe.
Update... 6000 kms
2nd service is over. There haven't been any issues so far. Mileage has moved upto 12kms. I touched 140 kms/hr speed with this car and it was as smooth as running it at 60. Traffic conditions didn't allow me to take the speed beyond this. Overall drivability has improved. However, I do feel that steering wheel needs to be covered with a nice leather cover for a better grip.
During recent monsoons, the road conditions have become horrible. Despite care, many times car has gone into severe potholes. Other than correcting the alignment, there has not been any need to undertake any parts change. I have not experienced any noise, etc. which was a regular feature in our old Santro.Over last 18 years, I have owned Ambassador, Maruti 800, Santro and Fiat petra and thus far the comfort level and reliability of Manza has been the best of the lot. Hope I am able to say the same after a couple of years too.
update... 20000 kms
I am glad with my decision about buying this car. It is due for 3rd free service and oil change in a couple of days time. I have faced following problems/issues of late-
In the hills of Ooty, the car has given me some jitters and refused to pull even with full throttle. I don't know exactly what the issue is and suspect it has something to do with engine temperature. After stopping the car a two to three times, the problem was solved. Another issue was with the brake pad. It had to be replaced at 16000 kms. Tyres also seem to be wearing out and will need replacement by 22000 kms. Apart from these problems, car has been faily reliable giving same level of comfort as it was earlier. I am a bit unhappy about the dealers. I complained to them about tyre wearing out so fast. They asked me to send the car so that they can have a look at it. Upeon receiving the car, they refused to change the tyres and to add to the agony, did a realignment and handed me a bill for the same. I could very well have done the alignment check elsewhere.
