Micro Rodius

Overview:

Aimed with the motive to engineer and build SriLanka's first truly home grown automobile, the veteran automobile engineer Dr. Lawrence Perera established Micro Cars Limited with 20 employees. Today Micro is the only Sri Lankan brand to develop the full range of vehicles. In 2008 it tied up with Korean automobile brand Ssangyong and began designing SUVs in Sri Lanka. In 2004, the large MPV was released and marketed as 'Rodius' which is intended to mean “Lord of the road ”. It was available in 7, 9, 11 seat configurations. Initially it used Mercedes Benz licensed 3.2 liter gasoline engine and 2.7 liter Common Rail Design engine. Later in 2008 it received the facelift. The current generation Rodius comes with the diesel RX200 I4 cylinder in-line Common Rail Direct fuel injection engine available with four wheel drive. The power-plant within the hood makes the power output of 155 hp with the maximum torque of 360 Nm at 1500-2800 rpm. The engine is mated with 5 speed automatic transmission and energetically achieves the top speed of 181 kmph. Along with maintaining the quite ride, it offers the fuel consumption of 12.82 kmpl. The huge sized Rodious gets the redesigned styling which is reflected in radiator grille with company's signature, adaptive headlamps, swing doors at side, and taillamps and stop lamps. The interior is roomy which is expressed with the dimension of 5130 mm x 1915 mm x 1815 mm ( L X W X h ). The heated front seat and passenger seats offers the comfort while center console makes the convenience which offers the air conditioner control for rear passenger mounted at its back. The standard audio CD player integrated with bluetooth connectivity and USB input is available while the ambiance is made with adaptive interior lights. The cargo space lies big which approximates to 153 liters with all seats upright. Overall the huge size does not make any false promise and it does what it shows.

Mileage and Fuel economy

Equipped with the common rail direct fuel injection system, it overcomes the drawbacks of sluggish, noisy and poor performing engines by maintaining the optimum residual fuel pressure constantly supplied at required pressure for injection. Consequently it enhances the fuel economy puts it approximately upto 12.82 kmpl.

Power:

Although Mercedes sourced diesel engine is not much efficient for the vast and huge sizing Rodius, but still it tries to make the decent output to not to disappoint the consumers. The Diesel RX200 I 4 cylinder engine puts the power out put of 155 hp along with the max. torque of 360 Nm at 1500-2800 rpm.

Acceleration & Pickup:

The huge sizing Rodius is equipped with the RX200 I 4 cylinder engine which is mated with 5 speed automatic transmission. The optimized automatic gear-transmission provides the ideal driving experience and tranquil ride. The five speed transmission makes it attain the top speed of 181 kmph. While pulls the vehicle from rest to 100 kmph within 13.5 secs.

Exterior:

The four wheel drive MPV, looks attractive from every angle. Although it styling is somewhat old comparatively but still new Rodius makes the statement of rugged individualism. It makes the commanding presence with the chiseled bonnet character lines which adds an volume to the front. The trapezoidal headlamp is organically linked to radiator grille which is further illuminated by daytime running lights. The distinctive side character include the D-pillar that proves it top be a full sized vehicle. The distinctive side character and swing door all around with the wrap around tailgate and rear quarter glass which impeccably connects the sides with rear makes the finished and full-bodied touch. The signature triple line radiator grille accents the redesigned look. The rubber blade windscreen wipers adds a touch of refinement and renders the better visibility in the rain. The styling roof rack adds sportiness to overall look and enhances convenience with carrier attached. The rear spoiler and auxiliary brake light imposes a dynamic rear appearance. Further body colour door handles and large surface door mirrors enhances the visibility while the mud flaps increases its robust persona. The overall exteriors exudes the aerodynamic stance of Rodius. The roof spoiler underlines the styling while step rails shows ease of egress and ingress.

Exterior Measurements:

The overall huge personality is built with the 5130 x 1915 x 1815 mm ( L X W X H ) of dimension where wheelbase lies at 3000 mm which gives the clear intimation of ample legroom. The 200 mm ground clearance effectively elaborates the powerful character of MPV.

Interior:

Radically the plenty of space can easily be estimated with the large and huge appearance of Rodius. As you climb aboard, you will discover the roomy interior made by the flexible seating variations. The heated driver and front passenger seat add an extra comfort while ergonomically designed instrument panel can be read at glance. The refined look to interior is given with the stainless steel door scuff. The deluxe center console is set in the back of console. The high-illuminating white Led back-light adds extra glamour and enhances readability. The heated steering wheel stays warm on cold days and operates with the flip of switch while steering wheel mounted controls makes it convenient to operate the various equipment. The automatic light control systems detects the outside sunlight intensity and turn headlamps and tail lamps on and off which gives the additional convenience when traveling through tunnels etc. The roomy Rodius makes the comfort place for 7 seater and 9 seater and 11 seater segment. The stationary console armrest makes the feel of luxury saloon.

Interior Comfort:

The maximum comfort is offered with the adjustable heated driving seat and tilt steering wheel that allows driver to adjust the steering making the comfortable posture to drive. Further the 'Eco Cruise Control system' automatically maintains the vehicular speeds set by driver resulting into no need to step on the accelerator. The supervision cluster makes the convenience while pop out dashboard cup-holders and map pockets inside door gives the ample space to keep objects. Further the deluxe center console with cup holders and mobile phone tray are additionally available while dual air conditioning system with manual control makes the improved air circulation with rear vents.

Interior Measurements:

The generosity in interior is desirable with the spacious MPV which Rodius offers without any hassle. The 7 seater and 9 seater segment makes the comfortable ride for all passenger while removable third row makes the plenty of luggage space. However the 11 seater configuration makes it problematic for tall guys in terms of legroom. The boot space with all seats upright lies at 153 liters.

Engine and Performance:

The huge size does not prevaricate with the capability of Rodius. Rodius houses the RX200 I 4 cylinder engine within the hood which uses the Common rail direct fuel injection system. The engine generates the power of 155 hp with the max. torque of 360 Nm at 1500-2800 rpm. In order to give the quick and smooth gear shifting the engine is mated with 5 speed automatic transmission which provides the ideal driving experience. The tranquil ride and pleasure ride is assured with the multi-link impact absorbing suspension at rear and double-wishbone suspension up front. The power plant is oriented to deliver more for less though with the huge sizing MPV it lacks it optimum performance. The fuel consumption lies upto 12.82 kmpl while engine competently achieves top speed of 181 kmph while catches the speed mark of 100 kmph in 13.5 secs.

Stereo and Accessories:

The front dash board introduces the metallic grain trim where the illuminated supervision cluster is conveniently located. The increased readability makes it more attractive. The latest MP3/ CD player integrated with 6 speakers can be operated with steering wheel mounted controls. The USB port and auxiliary socket makes the additional feasibility while bluetooth connectivity system allows to connect device.

Wheels:

The multi purpose vehicle is oriented to makes the best performance in all terrain. Rodius does not make you much disappointed in these terms. The 16 inch alloy wheel with tyre size of 225/65R makes the perfect synchronization with the 200 mm ground clearance. Optionally 17 inch alloy wheel with diamond cut is also available.

Braking and Handling:

The better handling capabilities is given with the impact absorbing, independent multi-link suspension for rear and double wish bone suspension for front which makes the true fun and pleasure through the drive. The performance braking is done with the ventilated disc brakes which is further associated with anti lock brake system and electronic brake force distribution mechanism.

Safety and Security:

The better control over the vehicle requires the responsive braking and stability. The ABS and EBD technology makes the powerful performance which prevent the wheel lock in panic braking and distributes the power to all wheels. The 3 point seat belt pretensioners and ISOFIX child restraint makes the part in active safety. The door mounted side protection beams endures the side collision effect perfectly and saves the passenger from severe injury.

Pros

Impressive performance
Roomy interior
Quality ride performance

Cons
Dull styling
Less tranquil ride
Lacks advanced equipment