I have owned Boon (Passo) 2007 that was used as second car. I had also driven Vitz 2008 of my nephew. Both were 1000cc with automatic transmission (not CVT). Both were slow in acceleration and with 5 adults on board, it was like dragging the wheels. Boon was very spacious and extremely comfortable. I remember, when Boon was driven to Naran first time, I never had felt myself that fresh after 11 hours of night drive from Lahore.
Coming to 660cc car, on Pakwheels I have noticed people bragging, one even claimed to have driven at 120 on new KKH stretches after Raikot..... But I was surprised last year when I had overtaken a Suzuki Every 660cc with 5 onboard heading towards Astore with loads of luggage. On next stopover, guys told me they are visiting Rama and Deosai. I have also seen Vitz and City on Deosai....but no one will tell us the amount of repair bill with their posts.
I own a 660cc mini SUV through mycar in mint condition. Last year, I have tested it in Cholistan, in extreme snowfall heading towards MalamJabba and visited Tirshing, Deosai and Skardu without an issue. When I was starting my journey back home, I was very concerned if it will be able to climb Babusar from Chilas side. Why? Because year before last, my Corolla was exceeding 4000 rpm while crawling up Babusar...again from Chilas side. Took advice from a 4x4 enthusiastic and turned towards Babusar. During last 4-5 turns up, engaged 2D and the vehicle had overtaken a couple of sedans. At the final stages, a corolla was about to overtake me but failed. Later at the top, I noticed it was Altis.
But this little 660cc jeep is turbocharged that makes all the difference and that I pamper it like a baby with top of the line lubricants. I am not engineer so I don't want to be "ustad" by changing the tyre size because people say it will increase stability and road grip. A 660cc car with a turbo can perform even better with a turbo when compared to my dinky....because its kerb weight is 985kg while 660cc cars weigh +/- 750kg.
Having said all of this, if budget permits go for 1000cc Boon/Passo; even with all the bells and whistles in a 660cc....small engine size will always have an impact on the mind. A dozen or so people inquired me about the size of my jeep....and then they feel shocked ""haen.....660cc?"