Mahindra Verito Vibe Road Test Review: A Positive Vibe

Engine, Ride and Handling

The engine having been shared with the Verito remains unchanged on the Vibe, which again is the proven Renault 1.5 dCi unit producing 65 PS @4000 rpm and 160 nm of torque @ 2000 rpm and manages a 0-100 dash in 16.8 seconds.

While there is nothing “sporty” about these figures to get the adrenaline pumping, the Vibe is pleasant to drive around thanks to low end torque which kicks in right from the tickover at 1000+ rpm and doesn’t tail off until about 3000-3500rpm.The linear power delivery makes the Vibe a brisk drive and coupled with a light action progressive clutch and equally effortless gearbox, it is never a chore to drive in traffic.

The gearbox slots with fair amount of precision though feels a wee bit notchy however is fun to use due to its short shift action. The gear ratios on the Vibe are more suited to city driving than high speed cruising on the highways. The steering on the contrary feels a tad heavy at low speeds but provides enough feedback as speed builds up.

The Logan`s ride quality was its hallmark and Mahindra have done the best to retain the fantastic well cushioned driving dynamics on the Vibe. Bad roads are never a bother, 172mm of ground clearance and the 185/70 R14 Tubeless JK Vectras further filter out minor ruts and ridges without a hint to its occupants. Ride quality is one of the absolute highlights of the Vibe, not just in its own segment, but across segments.

Though Mahindra claims it as a Sporty compact sedan, it is evident that the Vibe does not have an appetite for twisty roads. The well sprung Vibe is best suited to be driven around moderately, any attempts to push it too hard around bends highlights the body roll with the tail stepping out promptly, that said it always remains confidence inspiring and predictable.

The NVH levels of this oil burner are impressively low and the engine only sounds thrashy if revved hard beyond 3000 rpm. This frugal Renault sourced power plant returned us a figure or 14.6 kmpl with mixed driving cycle which a typical user can expect within the city, taking it on the highways it will returned a no complaints 16.2kmpl while shifting around 2000-2300 rpm when the engine is in its merry state. Overall, this makes the Vibe a pleasant car to drive around while being easy on the wallet.

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