Mahindra-Renault Logan 1.5 DLS

The 1.5 DCi is a more modern motor. A second-generation common rail system is used and this system utilises dedicated injector calibration which allows injector timing and flow to be controlled for each injector individually. It also features a pilot injection to help improve refinement levels. At idle it is not as refined as that of the Fiesta diesel, nor is the motor as smooth either. But you have to remember that the Fiesta diesel is exceptionally smooth and quiet, probably among the smoothest small diesels around. The Logan’s motor actually compares quite favorably with other diesels in its class for refinement with only a mild pitter-patter audible at idle.

Rev it hard and it sounds a bit gruff but it’s never obtrusive and far quieter than the latest Indigo DiCOR. Again, the Ford diesel beats the Logan in responsiveness and the Indigo DiCOR is quicker in a sprint but once you are past 2000rpm the Logan diesel pulls with great resolve. Mid-range performance is extremely healthy and you have adequate passing power on tap. Driven briskly, the diesel Logan covers ground quite rapidly and feels much faster than its 17.15sec 0-100 time suggests. Still performance is a far cry from that of the Hyundai Verna, which is totally in another league. 

The five-speed gearbox fitted contributes to driving pleasure a fair bit. The action is light, it slots into gear easily and it is almost impossible to miss a shift.
It is one of the most fuel-efficient cars around. It travelled an unreal 19.3kpl on the highway and 13.6kpl in the city. Throw in the 50-litre tank capacity and you have enough range to travel half the sub-continent on a single fill.