Smooth Operator

Long distance cruises are easy and relaxed as long as you keep the Grand i10 in the right power band.
 

The three-day Holi weekend meant that I decided to head out to Chandigarh to catch up with friends and family from the ‘city beautiful’. Though I was initially a bit skeptical about the Grand i10’s long distance cruising ability and briefly considered taking out my own swift for the journey, the Grand i10’s meager fuel sipping nature meant it won the debate without a fight.

The relatively small 1.1 Litre engine and soft suspension was a cause of concern but a good 500 km round trip has turned me into a firm believer about the Grand i10’s highway abilities. Though not huge on power the CRDi engine is big on refinement, and seems to have just enough pep to keep company with other hatchbacks on the highway. On the pulse side though, when revved hard the CRDi motor doesn’t get too intrusive, keeping the cabin quiet place. Keep it ticking over 2000 rpm and just below 3500 rpm and you will be rewarded with generous power delivery. What’s also brilliant is the 23.4 Kmpl economies I managed to get on this trip. The 256-Litre boot is well shaped as well and can take two large pieces of luggage for those long hauls. 

Another huge hit with the occupants are the rear AC vents. With summers approaching fast these vents add practicality to car’s cabin. Surprisingly enough, this is the only small car to offer this feature. But even more surprisingly, is the omission of automatic climate control, even on the top end version. Hyundai should seriously consider offering this as standard.

Overall I am happy with the Grand i10’s abilities as a long distance cruiser. Just a bit more power and this could be the complete package.