Mahindra Centuro review, test drive

Mechanically, the Centuro is near identical to the Mahindra Pantero launched earlier this year. It uses the same single-cylinder, four-stroke, air-cooled and 106.7cc engine as its sibling. Peak power is 8.4bhp at 7500rpm. Performance feels just about adequate, although the engine is on the noisier, gruff side. Gearshifts on the four-speed, all-up gearbox are largely smooth. 

The Centuro deploys a twin downtube frame with suspension comprising front telescopic forks and adjustable shocks at the rear. City-based owners will like the comfort afforded by an upright seating position. The Centuro is not suited to quick, sporty riding though, not by any stretch. Part of the blame for this going to its old-school tubular swingarm. Also, the drum brakes lack in feel and power, even as Mahindra assures us a disc brake variant is on the cards.  

Prices are expected to be in the region of Rs 47,000-50,000 (estimated). While the Centuro is a good effort from Mahindra, it remains some way off from its many better engineered rivals. Still, with so many features on offer, the Centuro could just go on to rope in some admirers.