Neta V

The Neta V has a very minimalist and simple-looking cabin, which is highlighted by the tech-laden features on offer. This all-black cabin of the Neta V sits well with the contrasting white layer across the dashboard’s width. The Neta V has a two-spoke steering wheel with flat upper and lower edges, while a very sleek 12-inch trapezoidal cluster sits a bit far behind it that reads out digital data of the vehicle.

The centre console of the Neta V is dominated by a huge portrait-styled 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while there is a wide layer from end to end of the dashboard that houses the rectangular AC vents. The transmission selector is integrated into the steering wheel stalks, while the lower centre console houses the electronic parking brake. The cabin of the Neta V also gets features like a 6-speaker audio system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, front centre armrest with cup holders and a huge boot compartment measuring 552 litres of space.

Contrary to the trend, Neta chose the V to be a strict crossover, which is why it doesn’t get a want-to-be-an-SUV design, evident from its lowered stance, slanted bonnet and slightly curved roofline. It looks more like a raised hatchback than an SUV, which goes well with the compact dimensions and styling elements all around. 

At the front, the Neta V has a slanted bonnet that flows down towards the minimalist fascia and has sleek headlamps that bulge from the outer edges. These headlamp housings have LED projectors within them, accompanied by daytime running LEDs. While the front bumper looks clean without many design elements, the side profile has sharp curves over the front fenders and character lines through the door panels.

The Neta V has a slightly rounded roofline and blacked-out C-pillars, beyond which there is a slightly tapered rear windscreen. While the boot lid has a cleaner design, the sides of the boot have wishbone-shaped tail lamps with LED inserts. The Neta V also gets slim body moulding all around, with black alloy wheels offered as standard.

Being an affordable compact all-electric crossover, the Neta V has a conventional suspension setup of Macpherson struts at the front and a trailing arm at the back. Offering a good low-speed ride quality, the Neta V also impresses with its tight turning radius of 4.85m, which is smaller than even some premium hatchbacks. However, the steering feels artificial and lacks precision at higher speeds. 

Sharing its HPC platform with the smaller Neta U, the Neta V has a front-mounted electric motor that is capable of producing a maximum power output of 95 bhp and a peak torque output of 150 Nm. While the performance numbers do not feel enticing enough, the Neta V impresses with its economical driving range of NEDC-certified 401 km from its 40.7kWh battery that takes 8 hours for a full 0-100 percent charge. 

While the Neta V might not have autonomous driving aids, this electric compact crossover has basic safety features on board, including electronic parking brake, auto vehicle hold, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, hill start assist, hill descent control, tyre pressure monitoring system, cruise control, follow-me-home headlamps, ISOFIX mounts for child seats, dual front airbags and reverse parking sensors and camera. 

For someone who is on a budget and wants a compact electric vehicle which is affordable, has decent features and is easy to drive, the Neta V comes across as a decent product. However, one should note that the long-term reliability is yet to be proven, while Neta as a brand lacks after-sales support from established brands.