For the official launch of this model in Mexico, the brand organized a driving route in Cancun that combined highway sections with a short stretch of dirt roads and roads in poor condition. As you will remember, I told you about it in the last issue of the Cars Supplement, when I drove it exclusively to tell you about its main advantages. Now I will tell you about the pleasant impression that its powertrain left me at sea level.
great behavior
It is no secret to anyone that at sea level, combustion engines operate at the maximum of their performance and capacities due to the greater amount of oxygen in the air. It is also true that more than one affirms that a power plant of these characteristics does not suffer at altitudes like those of Mexico City, but what they do not take into account is that before the turbine comes into action, they end up suffering from a lack of oxygen for best performance.
The 2-liter turbocharged engine is a delight in terms of acceleration and recovery, plus the partnership it has with the 8-speed automatic transmission is responsible for giving you the confidence to face a pass as a driver.
Undoubtedly on the pavement it looks like a family vehicle but it is true that it is not afraid of venturing out with a ride away from the pavement. It does not have a gearbox but its All Wheel Drive traction system does what is necessary to drive on slippery or difficult-to-traffic surfaces such as mud or sand.
safety behind the wheel
The version was High Altitude has more than 75 security systems, among them, and that I was able to check during the driving route, are the identification of traffic signs, the lane keeping assistant but, the one that I found very useful was Cruise control, which in addition to maintaining the programmed speed, is capable of adjusting the speed so as never to get dangerously close to the vehicle in front of us. To this is added that it is also possible to configure the distance.
indoor comfort
The front seats have a very good contact surface, mainly because it fits the body in a good way but also because they are not tiring or annoying for long drives. They have heating and ventilation, the latter was very useful in such hot weather and after returning to the car when it was stopped in full sunlight.
It has Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the Harman Kardon audio system rounds off a great experience on board to enjoy a road trip.
Conclusion
This is definitely a totally different vehicle at sea level. Its behavior is surprising due to the looseness of the engine and the speed with which it relates to the gearbox. Undoubtedly, the arrival of the 2-liter turbo engine, exclusive to this version, marks a huge difference with the previous engine.
Data sheet:
Engine: 2l, 4 cyl, Turbo
Power: 200hp
Torque: 221 lb-ft
Transmission: Auto. 8 vel.
