Is getting an MPV a sign of me getting older and wiser? I have had my share of fun hatches and small SUVs as long-termers, but an MPV is a first. And yes, technically, the Hyundai Alcazar is just about as skilled an SUV as I am at cooking. But altogether, it has been quite a comforting change, especially on those 4 AM runs to Mumbai.
I like how it feels calm and grounded, the broken tarmac stretches leading up to the horrible expansion joints of the Lonavala ghat section of the Pune Mumbai expressway don’t seem to trouble it much. Even the Goa trip with friends, the one that actually panned out, was joyous. The backseat drivers had little to complain about, and the ventilated seats did their thing rather well before Goa wielded its usual magic.
And don’t get me started on just how practical it has been. I no longer need to carry my tripods and heavy shooting equipment back home from the car after a long, tiring day. And when I do need to hop into the boot to get those super-slick tracking shots, the supple ride makes the task less taxing.
It’s not flawless. During late-night highway trips, the headlamp throw is lacking, and the fuel efficiency is… ummm… there… kind of. And it does lean more on the sensible side than fun which is not what I thought I would experience from a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol with a DCT. But hey, I have learnt to be a little cautious and smart. If that is a sign of me getting older, then I am up for it. Thankfully, an upcoming KTM 390 Enduro R purchase on the horizon should balance these sedate thoughts I’ve been having.
