Mahindra KUV 100 2016-2017 mFALCON D75 K4 Plus 5str

KUV 100 2016-2017 mFALCON D75 K4 Plus 5str Review

Overview:

Mahindra & Mahindra is a leader in the Indian utility vehicle market. After the success of Bolero, Scorpio and XUV500, this firm has come up with the young SUV that is christened KUV100. The automaker has not just launched a new model but also introduced a new range of mFALCON petrol and diesel engines. This particular Mahindra KUV100 mFALCON D75 K4 Plus 5str is a mid range variant that carries a 1.2-litre oil burner. Let us go into its details further and find out how well this new vehicle and its motor will perform.

Pros:

1. Alluring exterior design. It is a combination of both style and aggressiveness that can lure masses.

2. Roomy internal section with sufficient head and leg space for occupants.

Cons:

1. It is available only with a few key safety features that can offer protection only to certain extent.

2. This trim lacks a music system, which is one of its most disappointing factors.

Stand Out Features:

1. Its new 2.0-litre diesel engine is highly fuel efficient, which returns a healthy mileage of 25.32 kmpl.

2. Presence of dual front airbags will elevate the safety levels.

Overview :

The design of this kool utility vehicle is both aggressive and classy. It is powered by the mFALCON engine that is light in weight but delivers high performance. On the safety front, this machine has some significant elements such as the dual front airbags, and ABS with EBD among others. It is constructed based on the monocoque design that makes it light in weight but rigid enough in safeguarding passengers from collision impacts. This one also packs in elements like air conditioner, adjustable front headrests, and power outlets that gives you good convenience whole on journey. Besides these, you will find a sufficient boot compartment along with some storage spaces that lets you to keep your things properly in place.

Exterior:

Unlike the regular boxy design, KUV100 carries aggressive stance with slight curves in the rear, whereas the creases add to its style factor. In the front, the sleek bonnet includes visible character lines, while the beefy bumper houses honey comb air intake. A bold radiator grille sits between the bonnet and airdam with company's badge neatly engraved in its center. The headlight cluster featuring sun glass shaped headlamps and daytime running lights, extends up to front door edges, with mFALCON lettering on it. And not to forget the tinted windscreen, which is wide enough to give a clear view of the way ahead. On the sides, it gets stylish outside rear view mirrors, whereas the door handles are in body color. The ergonomically high-placed rear door handles in specific, look very unique on this machine. Besides, the slightly pronounced wheel arches come fitted with a set of 14 inch steel rims that are adorned with 185/65 R14 sized tubeless radial tyres. Its rear end looks decent although, elements such as the integrated spoiler and creases above tail lamps give it a sporty look. The large double barrel tail lamps are accompanied by brake lights, while the tailgate with brand's insignia looks rather impressive.

Interior:

Coming to its interiors, the attractive dual tone color scheme gives a soothing feel to your eyes. The dashboard gets a unique design and the equipments on it further gives it a sporty appeal. It features a digital instrument cluster with clear detailing of the information. With this model, the automaker has come up with an idea of incorporating the gear shift knob on the dashboard to make extra room in the front. Also housed on it is the air conditioning unit that features heater as well. There is enough room for five people inside, whereas the head and leg space is also sufficient. Then, you have the adjustable headrests at front and power operated windows on all the doors. Aspects such as the 12V power outlets, driver foot rest, foldable rear seat, LED interior lamp, as well as cable operated tail gate and fuel lid release further enhances the level of convenience. Aside from these attributes, a few storage spaces are also on the offer like 1-litre bottle holders in all doors, door trim pockets, and rear under body storage space as well. Meanwhile, it is designed with a boot compartment of 243 litres, which is expandable up to 473 liters when the rear seat is folded down.

Performance:

Under the bonnet is a 1.2 litre mFALCON D75 diesel engine which has a turbocharger and inter cooler. It is based on the common rail direct injection (CRDI) technology. With 1198cc displacement capacity, it can power up 77bhp at 3750rpm and produce 190Nm torque at 1750-2250rpm. Coupled to a 5-speed manual transmission gear box, this motor runs on FWD (Front Wheel Drive) train mechanism, and compliant with BSIV emission norms. As claimed by the company, it returns a maximum mileage of around 25.32 kmpl, which is indeed an impressive figure among the diesel SUVs running in India.

Ride & Handling:

Ride quality is quite good in KUV100, which allows you to pass over the uneven roads without jerks and shocks. Its proficient suspension system comprises of an independent McPherson strut with dual path mounts on front axle and a semi independent twist beam is assembled on the rear one. Also, coil springs and hydraulic gas filled shock absorbers are affixed for further assistance. Its front and rear wheels employ disc and drum brake systems respectively, while the ABS and EBD further takes the braking performance to next level. A tilt adjustable electric power steering is on the offer with collapsible function. This lets you steer through the narrow roads with great ease.

Safety:

With dual front airbags on the offer, the safety standards in this trim are highly elevated. The anti lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution is of great assistance during sudden braking. It prevents the machine from skidding and even aids in short stopping distances. A few notifications such as the driver's seat belt warning lamp, and door ajar indicator keeps you notified about the vehicle's status. Its monocoque body construction plays a great role in safeguarding the passengers during an impact, whereas the engine immobilizer prevents any risk of theft. Along with these, it has child safety locks on rear doors, anti slip clips for driver side floor mat and central locking system for added protection.

Verdict:

If space is taken into account, then this variant offers good room for all passengers. Even the tall passengers wont face any difficulty when seated in the second row. The highlight is definitely its impressive fuel economy, which is the best in its class. However, it has a few drawbacks as well like limited security and comfort elements. If your priority is better performance, looks and mileage then, this machine is definitely be a good buy.