How Automobile Companies Fool Us

You might have heard the word “Caveat Emptor”.

Yes, here we are discussing the thing you should be beware of while buying a new car or bike.

There are few things wrong in our automobile industry especially in middle class or non-premium car segments.

For example, we have seen companies launch cars with the name of sports, GT or road sports.

Just by giving these additional tag people start to believe that the car they have bought is sports versions or of an enhanced standard. One such car is Hyundai Grand i10 Sportz, it has the highest sales compared to other i10 variants just because of the sports tag given. But there is no substantial difference between the two as both are of same weight, engine same power output, and same suspension setting.

Even the Toyota Innova is no different when it comes to fooling people. Innova touring sports variant follows the same path when it comes to innovation as i10. The standard Innova is given some artwork and changed the design and is given a sports car tag.

Now let's talk about Baleno RS, there is some difference between normal Baleno and RS (road sports) variant. A little change in exterior looks and a smaller turbocharged engine is the only change that can be seen. Though it gives 100bhp and 150nm of torque which is higher than the standard. But, does give more power makes a car sportier? Because even after giving it a smaller engine both editions weight the same, the suspension is still soft and the steering wheel has no feedback.

Sports variant segments have seen some muscle cars, but muscle cars have power but are not good on curvy roads and they only focus on power. Even the tyres are not good for the improved power.

In Volkswagen Polo, the suspension is already on the stiffer side and has good steering with feedback so when GT comes with more power it can handle it, but the tyres can’t. The Polo and Polo GT show absolutely no difference in the look.

Tyres are also part of the car which should be given attention because it is the only part which is in contact with the road.

Currently, there is only one company which gives justice to sports tag; Figo S, enhanced with more power, torque, bigger and better tyres and the suspension has been re-tuned to make it sporty.

But this issues is only pertaining in the medium or low budget car segment, in premium car segments it’s not seen because of the ongoing competition and the attention people give when spending more notes on cars.

Now let’s talk about bikes. There is no such problem of tags as we see in the car industry, but there are issues in cruiser bike segment like in Royal Enfield. There is no doubt that these bikes are good, but they are outdated as there are no interesting updates introduced on this bike.

The current competition is huge, but we still see that public want this bike as it gives a classic look and vintage feel. The company is having a good sale, hence, it is understood the reason for the lack of improvement we see on these bikes. A 350 cc bike giving just 20 bhp with that heavy body and that suspension setup. Yes, the bike is really comfy but only good for straight roads.

Bikes do provide goods upgrade and enhancement in sports versions, but for the price, the built quality and gear ratios are not up to the mark.

They deliver good performance and comfort, but still lack the quality and can’t be distinguished from the standard version.

A little hard work and innovation can reap wonders in the bike industry.

Finally, it’s we, the customers who should demand a better-enhanced version of the automobile if we are ready to pay few more bucks for the sports variant or limited version.

Bajaj dominar

Bajaj Indian motorcycle company is a challenger for all motorcycle companies since the early 2000s.

Since the early 2000s, the ‘bajaj pulsar’ only flagship bike which was getting better with every new model.

And it was keeping up with the technology and was always a step ahead of the competitors.

In long-distance cruising segment bajaj already had Avenger which was a choice of people for long distance journeys.

But when Mahindra mojo came out it created a new segment of the power cruiser.

Pulsar was considered for the modified version for power but they let it rule in sports bike segment.

As always, Bajaj couldn’t leave that segment unchallenged; resulting launch of bajaj Dominar 400.

Dominar was launched in December 2016 and boy, it was an eye-catching sight.

The most powerful bike ever made by Bajaj. With such a muscular stand and powerful engine, Dominar was born for the competition of long-distance power cruiser bikes.

price range 1.42-1.56 Lakh

Let's look at its specifications.

Engine

Type	Triple spark 4-valve DTS-i engine, closed fuel injection, liquid cooled
Displacement (cc)	373.3cc
Max power (PS @ RPM)	35 @ 8000
Max torque (Nm @ RPM)	35 @ 6500
Clutch	Slipper clutch
Gearbox	6 speed

CHASSIS & SUSPENSION

Frame	Beam type perimeter frame
Front Suspension	Telescopic, 43mm forks
Rear Suspension	Multi-step adjustable mono shock

BRAKES & TYRES

Brakes front* (mm)	Twin-channel ABS, 320 dia disc
Brakes rear* (mm)	Twin-channel ABS, 230 dia disc
Tyres front	110/70-17 Radial
Tyres rear	150/60-17 Radial

*Only disc brake version also available

DIMENSIONS

L X W X H (mm)	2156 X 813 X 1112
Wheelbase (mm)	1453
Ground clearance (mm)	157
Kerb weight (kg)	182
Fuel capacity (ltr)	13

Performance

0-100 kph	8.33 sec
Milage	26-32 kpl

When it comes to looks and style it is a spectacularly crafted beauty.

Bajaj Dominar is a great bike with it muscular looks and powerful engine to back it up. It has full LED head lamps which is 1st in the segment.

With wide comfortable seats to keep u relaxed even on long distance rides, not just for the one who will drive but also the pillion seat is comfortable.

As it says, it has the hyper power, hyper agility, and hyper-control.

It comes in various colors like midnight blue, twilight plum, moon white and matte black.

Giving a serious headache for the sports-bikes on the street.

Ride quality and comfort

It has a perimeter frame from Pulsar NS which has been tweaked and adjusted for its weight and size.

It has a 373 cc engine same as of KTM with its 35 ps power and 35 Nm torque there is no scarcity of power in the bike; which can hold u back on highway.

You should keep in mind it’s not just a cruiser it’s a power cruiser that’s why this one is making 4 ps power a bit less then the KTM Duke 390.

But the power and torque kicks in much quicker then that of KTM. It has a 43 mm fork telescopic suspension at front and mono shock at its back.

The suspension is set up beautifully giving the bike the agility by which you can enjoy turns on curvy edges.

It can manage direction really well even with heavy weight and with the help of slipper clutch changing gears it makes it much easier and faster andwith the power and torque in its disposal, it can do 0-100 kph in just 8.33 seconds.

It has good mid-range power and torque which is smooth and over-taking is a piece of cake.

It has full digital instrument cluster with speedometer rpm two trip calculator fuel gauge clock neutral indicator and shift light and rpm limit light and is also visible in the day light.

What it lacks is a gear indicator and rpm is shown up to 13k but bike hits it limit at 9.5k. And there is other part of it which is on the fuel tank are abs ,battery condition, cool tank, high beam.

The engine is good but there is a bit vibration which starts from 3.8k rpm which is not that noticeable on a short journey or when you’re really pushing the bike hard, but you may notice it when your cruising at constant speed.

And for a cruiser Dominar also lacks some point for traveling attachments to hold a language would have been a great option. But most of all its fuel tank with its 13L capacity and 32 km/l mileage on highway it can have a maximum range of 416 km which is less and compared to Mahindra mojo with its 21L capacity too less. They should have provided it with bigger fuel tank. But these are over shadowed by the Dominar as this bike is great all-round u can have fun with this sporty look as well as cruising comfort .

Even though it has triple spark technology, the mileage it provides it lesser than expected.

Front suspensions are a bit stiffer, which helps in providing a sporty feel and good agility with its weight. Though they could have made it a bit softer , it will lose its agility.

Rear mono shocks are well setup and are 3 way adjustable, but even if the front shocks are stiff, ride quality is still good.

A most confusing question about this bike is; whether it’s a sports bike or is it a cruiser bike.

The answer is none of them. To be precise as its advertisement shows, It is not targeting the Royal Enfield riders nor the super bikes.

We can call it the best of both worlds.

Whose market share will it eat?

The Mahindra Mojo will be the most affected one and Bajaj’s own RS 200.

KTM Duke is also a model to lose the market share and could face potential threats.

Now let's talk about the people who are the most suitable for this bike.

People who like a sporty looking bike can buy this with their eyes closed.

People who want a power cruiser with good looks power and comfort and not looking for off-road touring this is a good bike.

People who don’t like sporty and are happy with heavy big engine, low power its your choice but “ Hathi mat Palo”. No fun intended.

Finally, this bike is most suitable for those who have a good personality and built, as you are going to ride a beast.

Looks and design: 9/10

Specs & features: 8/10

Dynamics & performance: 9/10

Safety & quality: 8/10

After-sale service:7 /10

Price: 7/10

Overall: 8/10

If you like this review, subscribe to our blog to receive quick notifications of our updates.  And comment below if you have any doubts regarding this article and let us know if you wish to see a review of any particular automobile. And e-mail us for further queries.

Baleno Review

 

The name Maruti Suzuki Baleno is not an unfamiliar name, it was prominent in Europe and the Asia Pacific from 1995 to 2002(also known as Suzuki Cultus Crescent). After the introduction of Suzuki Aerio in 2001, the name Baleno was never heard.

And then, almost after a decade, the name was reprized to launch the present Baleno and BOOM!

Car enthusiasts and business media were in for a surprise.

It was meant to be a premium car under NEXA, which was launched a few years ago by Maruti Suzuki. The NEXA introduced by Maruti Suzuki which says; “To build something endurable, one has to invest a considerable amount of time, thought and money.”

Yes, it took time and effort to design and craft beautiful cars like Ciaz, S-Cross, Baleno, Ignis etc.

But even though enough time has passed after the launch of Baleno under the NEXA, there are still many doubts and prejudice in people’s mind about this car like, ‘can Maruti; known for manufacturing budget cars launch a premium segment car, is Baleno worth the price and hype the it created during the launch and many more.

There are many reviews and information on the internet about Baleno, but none of them specifically clears the doubts and confusion in our mind.

These issues made us choose Baleno to review on our blog first.

Baleno hatchback model was launched in October 2015 under NEXA division which was developed to bring out premium cars for Suzuki.

They already had swift in hatchback segment but they wanted to launch a premium hatchback.

Baleno did perform well in the market. But was it up to the expectations or not; we will see.

On Jan 26, 2017, that is post demonetization Maruti’s business was exceptionally well compared to others.

Sales of Maruti’s premium brands were on the rise during the 4th quarter of 2016 and was steady during Q1 of 2017.

Courtesy The Economic times : https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/markets/stocks/news/maruti-suzuki-q3-profit-jumps-47-per-cent-yoy-5-key-takeaways/articleshow/56777448.cms

Let’s talk about its style and aesthetics first.

Apart from its sexy premium urban blue color, it comes with autumn orange, fire red, pearl arctic white, premium silver, and ray blue.

It has LED DRL with projector headlamps

Elegant chrome grill

Stylish alloy wheel

Aerodynamic OVRM

LED rear combination lamp

If we look Inside it’s packed with Premium black interior design, which gives a rich look. But some feels like it reminds them of Suzuki Swift and Dzire, which is a downside to a premium car.

The chassis feels strong and powerful from the inside, and the dashboard looks stunning with vibrant speedometer and rev converter.

It is said that Baleno was crafted for expressing flowing liquid or waves. The sleek design also show off the flawless curves!

When we look at the Engine and Transmission of petrol, diesel and Sports variant; a difference is hardly seen.

1.2 L petrol variant

Engine & Transmission
Engine Type	VVT
Valve/Cylinder (Configuration)	4, DOHC
Displacement	1197 cc
Mileage (ARAI)	21.4 kmpl
Turbocharger/Supercharger	No
Drivetrain	Front Wheel Drive
Dual Clutch	No
Sport Mode	No
Alternate Fuel	Not Applicable
Cylinders	4, Inline
Fuel Type	Petrol
Max Power (bhp@rpm)	83 bhp @ 6000 RPM
Max Torque (Nm@rpm)	115 Nm @ 4000 RPM
Turbocharger Type	No
No of gears	5 Gears
Transmission Type	Manual
Manual Shifting for Automatic	No
Driving Modes	No
Engine Start-Stop Function	No

                          

1.3 L Diesel variant

Engine & Transmission
Engine Type	DDiS 200
Valve/Cylinder (Configuration)	4, DOHC
Displacement	1248 cc
Mileage (ARAI)	27.39 kmpl
Turbocharger/Supercharger	Turbocharged
Drivetrain	Front Wheel Drive
Dual Clutch	No
Sport Mode	No
Alternate Fuel	Not Applicable
Cylinders	4, Inline
Fuel Type	Diesel
Max Power (bhp@rpm)	74 bhp @ 4000 RPM
Max Torque (Nm@rpm)	190 Nm @ 2000 RPM
Turbocharger Type	Fixed Geometry
No of gears	5 Gears
Transmission Type	Manual
Manual Shifting for Automatic	No
Driving Modes	No
Engine Start-Stop Function	No

RS 1.0 Petrol

Engine & Transmission
Engine Type	VVT
Valve/Cylinder (Configuration)	4, DOHC
Displacement	998 cc
Mileage (ARAI)	21.1 kmpl
Turbocharger/Supercharger	Turbocharged
Drivetrain	Front Wheel Drive
Dual Clutch	No
Sport Mode	No
Alternate Fuel	Not Applicable
Cylinders	3, Inline
Fuel Type	Petrol
Max Power (bhp@rpm)	101 bhp @ 5500 RPM
Max Torque (Nm@rpm)	150 Nm @ 1700 RPM
Turbocharger Type	Fixed Geometry
No of gears	5 Gears
Transmission Type	Manual
Manual Shifting for Automatic	No
Driving Modes	No
Engine Start-Stop Function	No

Now talking about the features of this beauty; it is ample with the ergonomics and comfort riding.

The best thing you will find is the 18cm SmartPlay Infotainment with Apple CarPlay.

Equipped with in-built navigation, driver side anti-pinch window, reverse parking camera, multi-information with color TFT, auto air conditioner, tilt and telescopic steering, steering mounted audio control and many more.

You can find all the specifications in the high-end models but if you don’t go for the high end one, in features, it may not provide you the best experience that company promises.

Baleno is a bit bigger compared to its rivals; Polo, Figo, i20, Jazz and Punto, but amazingly lighter than them.

It also has big boot space of 339l, so you can pack and fit all your bangs in there.

Some feel the driver seat a bit uncomfortable, and passenger seat is flatter than required; affecting the guy in the middle.

Tall guys will have no problem sitting anywhere in the car.

Dimensions & Weight
Length	3995 mm
Width	1745 mm
Height	1500 mm
Wheelbase	2520 mm
Ground Clearance	170 mm
Kerb Weight	890 kg

Capacity

Doors	5 Doors
Seating Capacity	5 Person
No of Seating Rows	2 Rows
Bootspace	339  litres
Fuel Tank Capacity	37 litres

Performance, mileage and the ride!

Suzuki’s car Baleno has good mileage. The car gives good ride quality and comfort, even on rough stretches of road. But for premium segments, Suzuki Nexa should have worked on its wind noise and soundproofing.

When it comes to dynamics it does a great job with standard tires. With its wider stands, it gives a smooth control at turnings. And it has a good engine but of low end, there is not much power and torque but once you rev it, it will fly. It’s not as punchy as Polo GT TSI but riding is smooth.

When it comes to steering it provides good and precise control, and you can feel the car going numb sometimes.

Baleno is a great car but not much indulging and sporty, even the RS sports version. The difference in Baleno and Baleno RS is only the engine which is more powerful. Even some features of variants alpha, sigma, delta & zeta are same.

Safety and built Quality

Lighter and stronger platform of the car gives confidence to the driver. Superior NVH performance is shown on the road.

TECT technology(Total effective control technology) is applied in a wonderful way giving the driver a sleek ride.

Anti-lock brake system, seat belt pre-tensioners and force limiters, dual airbags are the other safety features.

I would recommend Baleno only for those who want a premium and comfortable car with spacious interior and boot space and are not much into sporty car segments.

For those who are planning to modify after purchase, I would recommend them to buy the low-end Baleno as there is almost negligible difference in safety features than the high end alpha model.

Overall Baleno is a great all round car with great value for money and good performance. Good enough to satisfy basic drivers who like high speed, good safety features, and elegant design.

Pricing

Well, it’s a premium brand so the price ranges are:

5.35 L – 8.55 L

On road price up to 5.7 L – 9.8 L

It would be great to rate the car after the review, right!

We are going to rate Baleno on the following features:

Looks and design: 8/10

Specs & features: 9/10

Dynamics & performance: 8/10

Safety & quality: 7.5/10

After-sale service: 9/10

Price: 7.5/10

So, Baleno gets an overall of 8 out of 10.

And remember folks, this review is based on many sources and our personal experience. These opinions may be different for some.

Hope to deliver more in coming days, and support and share our post.

Comment below whatever your thoughts are and contact us for any inquiry and for more contents.

PEACE OUT =)