Mahindra Verito Vibe vs Sail U-VA: Better value-for-money car?

Here is another comparison of the Mahindra Verito Vibe with another competitor – the Chevrolet Sail U-VA, in the premium hatchback segment. The Verito Vibe technically isn’t a hatchback but most will consider it while deciding on a purchase of a premium hatchback. So let’s get to the point straightaway.

What does the Sail U-VA have to offer?

The Chevrolet Sail U-VA is not a car that would appeal to you at first glance. But it’s one of those that grows on you with its sheer practical value and, of course, attractive price tag.

Here’s the thing about the Chevrolet Sail U-VA’s looks. The front is quite attractive and contemporary, with swept back “hawk wing” headlamps, split trademark Chevrolet grille with a bold bow-tie Chevy logo and a neatly sloped bonnet. However, when you look at the car in profile, it begins to take on a boxy appearance as you move toward the rear. This car is one of the most spacious premium hatchbacks around, with plenty of passenger seating space. Luggage carrying capacity has been compromised slightly to provide better rear-seat legroom, although you still get about 248 litres of boot space. Also read:Chevrolet Sail U-Va video review – spacious and practical family hatch

The Chevrolet Sail U-VA 1.3 LT ABS is the fully-loaded version priced at Rs. 6.68 lakh. Exterior features include 14-inch alloy wheels (175/70 R14 tyres), front fog lamps, rear wash-wipe and demister. Interior features include 60:40 split folding rear seats (increases luggage space to 1134 litres), some under seat storage, integrated music system with Bluetooth phone connectivity, manual HVAC, tilt steering, power adjustable mirrors, power windows, dual airbags and a digital tachometer.

The Sail U-VA features among one of the best performers because of its more powerful 1.3 litre Multijet diesel engine that puts out 77 Bhp of power and 205 Nm of torque at 1750 Rpm. This engine is peppy and the way power and torque is delivered, makes it immensely drivable especially in city traffic. The shift feel is smooth and precise. The hydraulic clutch though is a little heavy, but thankfully because of the gear ratios in the car and it’s tuning, you don’t have to keep shifting too often. Overall ride quality is good thanks to a suspension that has been well tuned to soak up bumps and bad patches easily. Although, don’t expect that sporty feel that you get with the Fiat Punto, Maruti Swift or even the Ford Figo. Claimed mileage from this engine too is 20 Kmpl making it very economical and frugal. Also read: GM modifies warranty on Sail and U-Va

What does the Verito Vibe offer you?

Due to its notchback design and the fact that the Vibe is practically identical to the boxy Verito doesn’t do much for the car in terms of looks.

The big advantage that the Mahindra Verito Vibe has, compared to other hatchbacks in its segment is that it is easily the most spacious car in its class. The cabin space is identical to the full-size Verito – a car whose USP was space. The rear seat of the Verito Vibe is wide and can seat three abreast comfortably. Boot space is a huge 330 litres but flexibility of space is compromised as the seats can’t be folded and neither can the rear parcel tray be removed. Adding to this, access to the boot isn’t all that convenient either. Also read: All you wanted to know about compact sedans – Amaze, Dzire, Indigo

The top-end D6 variant of the Verito Vibe gets a single driver’s airbag, ABS, EBD, power adjustable mirrors, height adjustable seat, height-adjustable steering and double-DIN music system with USB and Aux-in. Though, it misses out on Bluetooth, rear wiper and a rear defogger.

The Mahindra Verito Vibe is powered by the tried-and-tested Renault-Nissan K9K 1.5 litre (1461 cc) diesel engine that puts out 65 Bhp of power at 4000 Rpm and 160 Nm of torque at 2000 Rpm. The engine is known to be incredibly fuel efficient and have very little turbo-lag, making it very drivable in the city. A super-light clutch adds to the drivability factor, especially in traffic and the Vibe is very stable with minimal body-roll. Also read: What the Mahindra Verito Vibe is all about

What we think…

As far as the price is concerned there isn’t much of a difference. The fully-loaded Verito Vibe costs Rs. 6.49 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) against the Rs. 6.68 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) price tag on the Sail U-VA. For the extra Rs. 19,000 that one may spend on the U-VA, Chevrolet offers a rear wiper, defogger, 60:40 split folding rear seats for increased boot space flexibility and a music system with Bluetooth connectivity. These are small yet important features which add up to the usability and comfort of a premium hatchback. Moreover, in that price difference, you also get better performance.

The Vibe on the other hand scores with a much better A/C and height adjustable driver’s seat but loses out quite a bit against the few extra but important features that the Sail U-VA has to offer. If the flexibility and accessibility of the boot space isn’t taken into consideration then the Vibe is still a good option.

The Sail U-VA matches some of the best-selling premium hatchbacks in its segment on various factors and would be our pick amongst the two.