Tata Indigo Marina TDi

Estates cost more than their hatchback brothers and sisters

Published on Dec 08, 2009 08:00:00 AM

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Luggage space at the rear, even with the parcel tray in place, is impressive. But the 410-litre capacity can be taken up to 670 litres when luggage is loaded to the maximum, and if you want or need even more space you can flip the rear seat forward.
The Marina's rear has hooks and a net on the floor to help secure luggage, a couple of pockets in the side as well as a storage box on the roof. Loading the latter with heavy objects could prove to be extremely hazardous in a crash though, when these objects would instantly be converted to flying projectiles.
Interior detailing is a mix-and-match of that seen on the Indigo and the new Indica V2. The very European-looking ringed dials and air-con controls have been plucked from the V2, whereas details like the nice leather-covered steering wheel, gearknob and stalks come from the Indigo. There's new plastic, ‘galaxy-effect’ trim on the central console, and a sliding drawer, which took ages to slide out.
Plastic quality on the doorpads and the central console leaves much to be desired. Thankfully, the driver is sat high on softer seats that offer decent support, and these are comfortable on all but really long drives.
Legroom for medium and tall drivers has been curtailed by restricting the travel of the front seat, presumably in an effort to maximize rear legroom. A lever system replaces the rotary or knob-type seat back adjusters; this is sad because the latter allowed an infinite number of adjustments to be made.
There is ample legroom for back-seat passengers. Rear seat comfort is good too, as the wide seat offers good thigh support and passengers are sat at a good height. The new shingle-type rear headrests may look good, but they affect shoulder comfort when not adjusted well.
Our tests showed that the air-con system functioned superbly despite the increased volume of the Marina's cabin, rear-seat temperature easily hitting 20 degrees in a short span.