2019 Mara Ekskurs 1.6 L
With the 4th generation of Mara’s KRB (Kanyon/Reyndzher/Bizon) SUV and ute family debuting in the early 2010s, the KRBs got two additional siblings: a panel van (the Kuryer) and a MPV. The latter was named Ekskurs for the 5-seat short wheelbase version and Rodyna (‘family’) for the long wheelbase 7 or 8-seat version. Both were a reaction to the demand moving away from traditional sedans and wagons for family use.
The short wheelbase 4th gen KRB (or rather, KRBKE) platform thus also ditched all remaining pretense of off-roading and was strictly engineered for FWD. Four driven wheels with off-road gear and tyres only remained options on the long wheelbase KRB (or rather, KRBKR) cars.
The cheapest short wheelbase KRBKE versions retained the previous generation’s engine (the much simpler SOHC Ekonovo 1.6 NA engine instead of the optionally t/c DOHC Efektyv 1.6 and 2.0), drivetrain (a 5-speed manual or automatic) and driver aids (with TC and ESP being mere options), all with roots in the 2000s.
For the planned streaming series, the Ekskurs’ automatic gearbox and the hands-free phone call option should allow a focus on the driver’s interaction with the passengers instead of the car controls, while the spacious cabin of the Ekskurs allows for a good variety in camera angles for the driver and the passengers.