I got an opportunity to drive this car (old logan - 2008 model) for 300 kms from Mumbai to Jalgaon. Looks are subjective hence no comment, I like space and seat ergonomics which gives a very good comfort to passengers for long drive. Very good design wich makes driving easy even for new drivers. Dashboard and Seating position for driver is excellent, A/c is fantastic, Suspension is excellent which can not be compared to other cars I have driven so far (Wagon R, Swift, Chevrolet Uva, Hyundai Santro, Ford figo... i20 ’s suspension is better than logan). Huge boot space.
As far as fuel economy is concerned what I know is 13-14 kms in city and 17-18 on highways with full time A/c on (petrol engine). Car has got a good grip on the road which boost your confidence to accelerate, not to worry even on turns/bends. You will feel little harshness of engine on ideling, while riding it is smooth. Cabin is silent.
What I dislike is gear shift which is little hard and does not give you butter smooth feel like Hyundai’s or Maruti’s. Clutch pad is too hard which may result in a knee pain. Mahindra’s must do something regarding clutch adjustment. (probably care might have taken in new verito which I am not aware of). Very few color choices which should be widened. Fit and Finish is not at par (somehow Indian manufacturers like Mahindra and Tata’s are still not catching their Japanese, Korean and European, counterparts in this area).
In my opinion this is a very good car for a family of 5 having frequent outdoor weekends. Mahindra’s should be little agressive to redesign this car suitable for 2012 standards and improve on service factor to keep alive this very good vehicle. So ultimately good product which require few improvement and should not be sold as a Taxi.