The Top Gear team seems slightly confused. Its January 2007 issue features a first drive on the all new Zen Estilo. But, ‘confused’ because, they seem all smitten by this newest addition to the automobile family but have given it scores of just 13 / 20.

In other news, they say that the car has all that it takes to seduce buyers, with its finesse and style. But what about its performance?

Read on to know more.

PROS:

1. For starters, let’s just say that titillating an onlooker is how the Zen Estilo loves to pass time. Maruti Udyog’s latest offspring is hot, and so is almost everything else about it. This seemingly upgraded Wagon R seems pretty from all sides – from the front, rear and even the sides! While we’re on the subject, this Zen keeps reminding you of the new Wagon R, with its big headlamps. These however look better on the Estilo than the former. Even the taillights are huge, adding to the effectiveness of the design. To sum up, this car renders a very cozy feel, like a dress that fits just right.
2. The new Zen Estilo aims to please everybody, by making sure it has a little bit of everything that interests the masses. A great look on this baby is combined with a slightly masculine look, beautifully portrayed by the wheel arches. This also ensures that the car isn’t a victim of gender stereotypes and labeled as a ‘male’ or ‘female’ car.
3. The Zen Estilo has a 1061cc engine, bettering the earlier Zen’s 700cc engine. This Zen maybe similar to the Wagon R, but is a step ahead as far as the engine refinement is concerned. Does this need to be elaborated any further?
4. The performance of the engine is near perfect at low and normal speeds
5. The accessories department of this car is pretty cool. The Estilo comes with an ‘Aero Kit’.

CONS:

1. The power that the older Zen has to offer beats the Estilo hollow any day.
2. As you accelerate and move onto high speeds, the engine makes its protests heard with a slight growling noise.
3. The plastic interiors of the car are nothing remarkable, and thus are a huge let down considering the exteriors of the car. Considering only the interiors, there is nothing about the Estilo that distinguishes it from the other Maruti cars.