A very satisfying day today. I have secretly nursed a regret that I tried to bury deep in my heart so that no one would discover it. I had bought a 4x2, wanting an automatic, but also wanting a Pajero Sport, but in the end the Pajero Sport is the ultimate rugged 4x4, so did I not make one really confused choice! But throughout the steed has stood by me putting in stellar performances, climbing hills packed with 7 people effortlessly, being driven at 180kmph non stop for an hour etc.
So when the chance came for me to do my own head to head with an Ford Endeavour (FE3.2), which was a 3.2 fully tricked out thoroughbread 4x4, I was a bit anxious. And after all, I was not really a 4x4 driver.
The stage was the hills in Tungareshwar forest, 49km from my home in Bandra W, and a magnificent place in which to photograph birds. I and my FE3.2 buddy met at 715am in the bird place, and did our photography and trekking and came out and climbed into his truck, and drove from the bird pond, up around 1km to the temple. This is a gathering place for all visitors, has eating joints, and the temple. It was a sedate drive. I was very impressed with how silent the cabin was, and the numerous bells and whistles the vehicle sported. It was a massive vehicle but the doors felt a bit light.
We finished breakfast and headed further up the hill. Now the road became extremely difficult. Rocky, with loose pebbles everywhere - no danger of falling off etc. - and patches where it would be only sand being kicked up by the tires if one slowed down too much. We frequently needed the FE3.2 to switch to what I believe is called 4x4 Low, which has even greater traction than 1st gear. In time, we reached a dignified height, and I felt that I had worked out in the gym for an hour, though I was not driving. The cabin had been silent, giving me a taste of what true luxury felt like, driving in tough terrain. Hill Descent more was interesting.
We came back to the bird pond where the PS was parked. We switched and too it up the same track. Immediately to me it seemed the view had enormously expanded. My friend was stunned. The PS galloped along the same track like a mountain goat, and pebbles seemed to disappear, and we were gliding very rapidly indeed. After a 3-4km drive which was effortlessly achieved, we U turned and came back to the pond. All the while in total control, and my friend was ga ga over the ride quality, which he said was smooth, and fluent. And he remarked that the doors felt really heavy and shut with a solid thunk.
I have exorcised that little regret...I think I dont need a 4x4 after all!
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