Ameo dieselAutomatics are of many types- from the humble, but oxymoronic, manual automatic to the dual-clutch system that one can see in high end cars. The differences between them are humongous in terms of quality and cost.
While the dual clutch was available only with costly cars, Volkswagen has just changed the norm. The Ameo diesel is to sport the same technology that does duty in Polo GTI and TSI petrol models.
Design
The Ameo is the sedan form of Polo. The sub-four-metre car offers cost benefits thanks to cuts in taxes. Except for cosmetic changes to the bumpers and the boot, one could easily mistake the Ameo for a Polo.
Inside
While there is no change to the dashboard, the costly and sporty steering is a new addition. Climate control is available with the top model and so is integrated music system. The car comes with enough leg, head and glove-compartment room. The boot is also not bad in terms of space.
Technology
The 1.5 L, four-cylinder engine produces 110 PS at 4000 RPM and 250nm of torque at 1500 RPM. The new DQ200 gearbox was so far only available with cars such as the Skoda Superb.
The vehicle has been tuned for maximum mileage and it offers about 21.73 kms to the litre. The flat power band and torque-at-call offers easy driving. Hill hold and ESP are new features.
Driving
The seven-speed DSG automatic is a real treat and spares the driver from the complexities of driving: Get in, start, shift to drive mode and drive away, that’s all. One would never long for the manual gears or feel that the car is lacking in power. In sporty mode, the car lunges forward as a sports car. You can also manually shift if needed, especially during overtaking.
Even the low-end models have ABS and air bags. The car is well under control at high speeds and even if the road is bad, your travel won’t suffer.
Ex-showroom price: Rs 6.54 and aboveTest Drive: EVM Motors, Tel: 9895764023
