I bought this car about three months back and have literally freaked out driving it ever since. It really is an amazing car to drive.
The tall gear ratios (e.g., you can rip the car upto 125 kmph in the 3rd gear) and the phenomenol torque of 110 NM at low RPMs (2500-3000) propels you off the blocks from standstill like a bullet and also ensures that you get adequate power and tremendous confidence while performimg overtaking manouveres in the city traffic.
It is, therefore, a perfect car for city driving if you love to drive with passion and ’’JOSH’’.
Having said that, I was pleasantly surprised at the ease with which the mini JOSH machine leaped upto 165 kmph on the NOIDA -Gr NOIDA expressway. It was perfectly stable and in absolute control without any body vibrations etc. whatsover.
A perfect car, therefore, for the highways as well. And an exhilarating drive, 165...!!
The brake feel is real good and response excellent and gives one tremendous confidence and faith to return to ’’ HOSH’’ afer the ’’JOSH’’ stints. The steering and handling of the car is simply stunning and to has to be experienced to be believed.
Power assist to the wheels is beautifully optimised and the steering has a great feel. When you take a turn, your brain, arms, steering and the wheels move in total synchronicity, as if they all were all just one unit! Such wonderfully quick and accuracte is the steering response of this car.
The Suspension is hard / taut and very well suited for flying at high speeds over potholes bad roads. But at slower speeds, over the small potholes in city driving, the thuds and squeaks do manage to creep inside the otherwise quiet cabin.
Both back and front seats are very comfortable with ample leg space. The dash is very stylish and looks great. All contols are within easy reach of the driver. The door trims and the seats are in light shades and look very good , giving the car a roomier and an executive feel. However, they are susceptible to getting dirty in the Indian conditions; so either be prepared to shell out on drycleaning regularly or get yourself new seat covers quickly.
Last but not least, I find it to be the best looking car in any category. The raised boot and the new mesh- grill with cat-eye lights gives it a cool sporty stance.
However, the paint quality and finsih and choice of colors as well as the plastics quality has left a lot to be desired. No Silver or Black in FLAIR.. Reserved only for the 1.6; the mean beastly elder sibling. I (usually driving with the pedal pressed hard to the floor) get a mileage of about 10 -11 km/l with the AC on in city, under moderate to heavy traffic conditions.
B.T.W., the AC is very poweful and effective, albeit a bit noisy, and the air circulation and flow is good all around the car. Hey, the boot space is ample to carry your in-law’s luggage. So , more trips to the railway station and the airports!! And a happier wifey.! And you?!?!...
Overall, the car is good value for money with all comforts like powerful A/C, heater, power windows, power steering, central locking, tachometer, etc. all available as a package under Rs. 5.0 lacs.(Ex- Delhi). Go Get It! The brwany beauty with brains. The Josh machine, with Hosh.
Pros : FORD Brand, Big car look and feel, great steering / handling/ engine/ all comforts, big boot.
Cons: paint finish and plastics quality, no black and silver color in flair, difficult to reverse.