With a feature-list the same as the petrol Highline, the Ameo TDI DSG gets the auto-climate, rain-sensing wipers, cruise control, and anti-pinch windows. The rear a-c vents are also present, much to the delight of yours truly. (Yes, the Polo needs them too.) The seats are accommodating, with adjustable head-rests front and rear, and the space is more than sufficient for an average family. The 330-litre boot is spacious and offers a wide enough open loading area, while the folding rear seat adds to flexibility.
The big change here, though, is the driveline. The all-new 1.5-litre TDI engine, first seen right here in the Ameo, now puts out 110 PS at 4,000 rpm and 250 Nm of peak torque — matching VW’s old 2.0-litre engine. The addition of the seven-speed DSG auto box translates into quick, seamless shifts at precisely the right times, imperceptible when cruising, and much appreciated when driving spiritedly. Front-wheel-drive it may be, but it’s a reasonably quick car and the dynamics rival the best, and not always on a budget.
The Ameo TDI DSG doesn’t really launch, with the engine going on strike after I left-footed the brake and prodded the other pedal. Even so, step on it and it will do the 0-100 km/h sprint in 12 seconds and go on to 165 km/h. On the move, though, is where it shines. It’s quick through the gears and speed climbs fast. The suspension seems like the result of a green blackboard with miles of chalk equations ending in supple ride with perfectly behaving dampers and no more than one whump over the worst elevation change. Take that, you Rs-50-lakh wallowing barges!
Turn in smoothly or tightly and the Ameo responds. The chopped steering wheel feels sporty and the responsive engine, gearbox and dynamics add more to the equation. It’s fun and relaxing at the same time. It can do them both, and admirably well. The brakes are a pair each of discs and drums but they terminate speed when called upon without a fuss: 100 km/h to standstill takes 2.8 seconds and 33 metres. Plus, with the ESP acting on, there is no wavering of car body or driver confidence at all.
It’s an affordable car for someone looking for a quality family sedan which is well-built and frugal. Frugal, yes. A DSG is certainly that. The Ameo returned more than 16 km/l in the city and 21 km/l on the highway, for an overall 17.6 km/l. Pair that to the 45-litre tank and you’re looking at a range of nearly 800 km.
There aren’t too many cars that can hold a candle to the Ameo. It’s a solid car that meets varied requirements and delivers the goods when and where it matters. They’ve stepped up, and they’re a step ahead of the game. The only reason not to buy one is if you want that Vento TSI DSG turbo-petrol…
