I just booked for a VDi yesterday. the waiting time in BLR is 5-6months...yes, u read that correct...5-6months. as insane as it may sound...this is perfect for my wife and i. we’re hoping to to get it within 3months through trusted contacts.
We initially had a transfer of booking ownership in mind but we couldnt do so as maruthi has stopped such procedures as people have misused this facility. apparently, people booked the vechile and when it nears allotment. They sell the booking on premium. hence, we had to book afresh.
Now, to answer the title question...why VDi?
I initially had my mind and heart on the fiat style (MJD) however, when I test drove the swift, my perception was shattered.
Fiat style, go for it, if u want to be in a safe and steady car. its spacous but u must the fact that not many run on our roads prove its misfortune. forget about the interior looks. look at the dials...its with the analog...even the trip. turning radius is hell. taking a U-turn is a miracle...if u succeed in one go.
However, look at the tech side. its got DOHC, torque and horse is great. in BLR, it comes to 5.6lakh on-road. the only reason I didnt go for it is coz VDi had the turbo kicking in at 2000rpm. u’ll know what I am talking about when u feel it post 5seconds of your vehicle’s movement. its a jet capsule...in a nutshell.
Please don’t complain about space. all small/hatch is meant to seat 4 and not the company promised 5. Now, the rear seat are horribly inclined. Its just so straight down. its a big no-no for people with a back problem to sit in the rear. Safety is BAD. You can not expect a maruthi to keep u safe. maruthi cant build strong cars...except for the boleno. so buckle your seatbelts and drive sensibly.
You will feel the trubo lag while climbing. but be happy u cant do the masnagudi climb on a 2nd.
Gear shift is not smooth and is placed way behind your knees (when its supposed to be just behind your knees or besides them but its matter of time. I love the sporty touch to the knob. u really feel like u r sitting in a fiat 500 (if anyone has sat in one).
DO NOT, upgrade its engine if dont know jack-ass of what u r in for. for 6Lkhs in BLR, i’d any day go for this baby.