The Hyundai Santro
11 years ago, Hyundai Motor India Limited launched its hatchback model, the ‘Santro’. And, since 1999, this car has grown to become one of the market leaders in the ‘B’ segment of Indian cars. Although India was happy with the Santro, Hyundai was not so happy to keep the car as it is for long. So to give it a new look, the automaker decided to give the Santro a facelift. The car was activated in 2003 and named Xing. At the moment Santro has a new look and a new 1.1 eRLX Epsilon engine.
If one has to describe the Santro in an award, it’s a well-equipped, reliable car with advanced technology and generous space that also offers good value for money. The Hyundai Santro is indeed an exceptional package that appeals to Indians with its wavy and boxy shape. The car sits tall and is a big favorite as an ideal small family car.
India is home to eight variants of the Santro; XK No AC, GL, GLS, GL LPG, GLS GLP, XK No AC CNG, GL CNG and GLS CNG. These eight variants come in 8 vivid colors: Crystal White, Black Diamond, Sleek Silver, Electric Red, Dark Grey, Silky Beige, Berry Red and Sparkle Blue.
Under the hood is a Hyundai eRLX Epsilon engine, with a displacement of 1,086cc generating 62bhp at 5,500rpm and peak torque of 96Nm at 4,000rpm. The Santro is an ideal example of ‘delivered high performance’. With eRLX ‘active intelligence’ technology driving the engine, the Santro offers better performance and fuel economy. This engine is mated to a quick and responsive 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive. The GLS variant flaunts the 4-speed automatic transmission that is better suited to city commuters.
The Hyundai Santro is lively and drives well. With a short wheelbase, turning is no problem for the Santro, no matter how small the surrounding space is. The new car flaunts best-in-class McPherson Strut suspension at the front and 3-link offset coil springs at the rear. So no harsh message is sent to the backs of car occupants, even when the car is jumping over bumps. The car is small, but the tires are large to ensure that it does not skid.
The new grille adds a stylish personality to the Santro’s image. Chrome inserts and freshly restyled front fenders further accentuate this personality. The sleek new round headlamps with integrated indicators are just great. The rear of the Santro also gets updated brighter taillights, a sleek body-color bumper and an athletic rear spoiler for improved aerodynamics. New pull-type grab handles and stunning full-cover wheels give the car an eye-catching appearance.
The interiors of the Santro look rich and are also very spacious. The interiors of the Santro are similar to those of the i20. The new car’s tallboy design gives occupants plenty of legroom, headroom and elbowroom. The seats also offer great support for the thighs and back.