Suzuki Mehran has long been known as the “boss” of budget cars in Pakistan. For over eight years, this compact vehicle has been a reliable companion to many, including Ali Zahid, a Computer Science student from UMT, who has had his Mehran since 2017. In this review, we’ll explore why the 2011 Suzuki Mehran remains a standout choice for Pakistani drivers, particularly those seeking an affordable, reliable, and practical vehicle.
Engine and Performance
Under the hood of the 2011 Suzuki Mehran is an 800cc inline 3-cylinder engine, which produces about:
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40 horsepower
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60 Nm of torque
While these figures are far from thrilling in terms of raw power, they are more than enough for city driving, where acceleration and high-speed performance aren’t as critical. The Mehran is built to handle everyday tasks, from commuting through busy streets to navigating tight spaces.
What makes the Mehran truly stand out is its reliability. Ali has owned his Mehran for eight years, and it has never required a major engine repair. Most of the maintenance work has been handled at home with help from his cousin, including tasks like adjusting the valve clearances and changing the timing belt. In fact, there’s been only one major instance when the timing belt snapped while on a trip near a canal, but even that was fixed without any issues. This reliability is something that many Pakistani car owners appreciate, given the harsh road conditions and the need for an affordable, low-maintenance vehicle.
Fuel Efficiency
In a country where fuel prices are ever-rising, fuel efficiency is one of the most important factors for Pakistani car buyers. The Suzuki Mehran offers an impressive fuel average, making it a favorite among budget-conscious drivers.
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City Fuel Average: 12-13 km/l
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Highway Fuel Average: 15 km/l
This kind of mileage is a relief for daily commuters, especially in cities like Karachi and Lahore, where traffic congestion can be a constant challenge. The Mehran’s ability to deliver good fuel efficiency while keeping costs low makes it an ideal choice for short-city and longer journeys.
Exterior and Usability
While the Suzuki Mehran may not win any awards for looks, its boxy and compact design is what makes it so well-suited for Pakistani urban environments. The car’s small size allows it to easily maneuver through crowded streets and park in tight spaces—perfect for daily commuting in bustling cities. The Mehran provides just enough space for a small family of four to ensure a comfortable ride without any unnecessary frills.
For many, the Mehran’s simplicity is its strength. It’s a simple car that does its job without any trouble. Whether driving through narrow lanes or dealing with heavy traffic, this vehicle makes daily life in Pakistan just a little bit easier.
Price and Resale Value
The Suzuki Mehran is known for offering great value for money, both at the time of purchase and in terms of resale. Ali Zahid bought his 2011 Mehran in 2017 for 570,000 PKR, including transfer fees and a security alarm. Despite being over a decade old, the car’s resale value remained impressive, reaching around 750,000 PKR the following year. This makes the Mehran a smart investment for anyone looking for a budget-friendly vehicle that holds its value well over time.
This strong resale value is one of the reasons the Mehran is so popular among the Pakistani awaam. For those planning to upgrade to another car, the Mehran’s ability to retain value is a major plus.
Comfort and Features
The interior of the Suzuki Mehran is simple and functional. It doesn’t have fancy features, but it works well for everyday driving. The factory-fitted AC is one of the standout features, especially during the hot summer months. It cools the front seats effectively, while the rear seats receive a bit less love. But for short trips, the rear seats are comfortable enough for adults.
The Mehran’s legroom is reasonable for four adults. Taller individuals might find the space a little cramped, but for a small family, it’s adequate. It’s not a luxury car by any means, but the Mehran provides enough comfort for daily use without any unnecessary complications.
Build Quality
When compared to some of the newer budget cars, like the Suzuki Alto, the Suzuki Mehran’s build quality still stands strong. The Alto, despite being a newer model, has faced criticism for its structural weaknesses, especially in crash tests. On the other hand, the Mehran has proven itself over the years with a reputation for durability.
Ali Zahid’s own Mehran, for example, has been accident-free for the past eight years, aside from some minor scratches. This sturdiness is crucial in Pakistan, where road conditions can be tough, and accidents are common. The Mehran remains a trusted option for those who prioritize a robust build.
Minor Drawbacks
No car is without its flaws, and the Suzuki Mehran is no exception. One of the main drawbacks is the noisy cabin, which can become especially apparent on longer drives. However, this is a small price to pay for a vehicle in this price range. Additionally, although it’s a budget car, the Mehran handles long trips reasonably well, with Ali having taken it on journeys to places like Murree, Nathiagali, and Islamabad.
There was a single instance when the radiator pipe burst on a trip from Islamabad, causing a delay of several hours for repairs. However, this was an isolated incident, and for the most part, the Mehran has proven to be highly reliable on long-distance drives.
Spare Parts and Maintenance: Affordable and Easy to Maintain
Maintaining the Suzuki Mehran is straightforward and affordable, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious drivers. Spare parts are readily available across Pakistan, and their prices are relatively low.
The low maintenance costs and easy availability of parts make the Mehran an ideal option for anyone on a budget.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Suzuki Mehran 2011 model continues to be a reliable, practical, and affordable choice for Pakistani drivers. While it may not be the flashiest car on the market, it offers incredible value for money, especially for those seeking a no-nonsense, low-maintenance vehicle for daily use. From its fuel efficiency to its sturdy build, the Mehran proves itself as a long-lasting companion on the rough roads of Pakistan.
For anyone looking for an affordable car with great resale value, Suzuki Mehran remains a solid option that will continue to serve the Pakistani awaam well for years to come.
