So since everyone got a fair idea about the alpha, I got a chance to see the Zeta in grey, so here’s my first impressions. I’ll only be focusing on the differences vs alpha as the rest are same except some features like tinted glass, ORVM auto folding and infotainment and climate control/cruise control.
Starting with the paint on the steel rims are same as body colour. Grey. Even the paint quality is same. I can confidently say the paint used in rims and the body are one and the same. Now I don’t know what colour will come for BB etc. but I guess it’s the same grey.
Another thing is, the automatic gear lever, I feel is too close to the centre console which might make access to the trays and lower buttons very difficult especially when it is in park mode.
The plastic quality is pretty basic - nothing to complain yet nothing to write about. It is basically built to last.
Audio quality is fine. It will be fine as long as you don’t push it to the max. Keep it at its sweet spot and you’ll enjoy the music. The console is snappy surprisingly. I thought it’ll be laggy but no. It is snappy and fast. I loved it. I only wish I could’ve tried apple auto etc. hopefully next time.
The rear parking camera was fine. Nothing to complain about. It was also fine. Doors shut with a good solid thud. The engine made noise only while starting and rest of the time it was pretty silent.
One advantage for automatic folks is - there’s sufficient space between the gear levers. More so beside the 4x4 gear - one can have the bottle holder attachment there and can actually use it there. It is very spacious. I really liked the automatic more than the manual. There’s ample space. So I say yeah, auto is the way to go.
So went for a TD today of the Zeta automatic. Here’s the first driving impressions.
It’s easy to drive. You don’t feel the heft, no weight, light and easy. The large turning radius isn’t an issue at all.
The seat height surprisingly felt adequate and comfortable.
Solid build quality. The thud has a nice base to it. But it is tall. Dad did find it a little difficult to get in as it is high. Doors do open wide.
Surprisingly it is easier to get into the front seat than the rear. I only hope they provide a retractable step or something as an accessory in the future.
Manual AC is a chiller - even without the tinted glasses, cools down the cabin nicely. At level 2, it’s whisper quiet. Front is cold but rear is not uncomfortable. Given time, it’ll chill the whole cabin down.
Cabin is actually spacious and nice. Didn’t feel claustrophobic one bit. In fact myself and dad were sitting in the rear seat and were chit chatting like we’re sitting on a sofa. It is also silent inside spare for the loud blower from 3 and above. Till 2 it is pretty quiet.
Visibility all around is top notch. Drives like a hatch, visibility of a SUV and capability of 4x4 - it’s a deadly combo.
The tyre pressures were very high, but the ride was not bad. Bad roads didn’t unsettle it one bit. Cornering on roads, handles like a charm. Yes it’s not as awesome as a low slung hatch but it does hold the line reasonably well. Which is a good thing as it’s meant to be driven for pleasure and chill. Not drag race.
Rock solid planted on road speeds. Easy to potter around city and the automatic is way better in comfort than manual. Unless you’re severely budget constrained, pick the automatic. I’m sure a tyre upgrade will make the car even better. No side to side rocking or swaying feeling anywhere at all despite the tyres being overinflated.
Boot is very nice and spacious.
Absolutely lovely car that will serve your needs and more. It’s a no nonsense vehicle that says fill shut and go anywhere in comfort. This is one rare vehicle that’s worth the wait. Premium pricing? Not sure but you get 6 airbags. So that’s a good thing.
