OVERVIEW
In the year 1998, Indian automobile industry witnessed the introduction of a company with a strange name and they launched a strange car which is cute to look at but had a tall boy design. Before this, small cars are meant to be small in every proportion in India. But Hyundai redesigned the small car concept of Indians and gave us the ever so popular Santro. Santro was not just a people mover for many people. It was always a part of the family and that’s why after 17 years it has been discontinued, Hyundai is bringing back the car which changed the concept of a real family hatchback. Hyundai Santro was known in many names all over the world such as Hyundai Amica in UK, Hyundai Atos in Middle East and some European countries. It was even rebadged by Dodge and Kia as Dodge Atos in Mexico and Kia Visto in South Korea and Indonesia.
ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION
Santro was powered by a 1086cc MPFi inline 4 cylinder petrol motor churning out 62 bhp @ 5500 rpm and 96 Nm @ 3000 rpm. Though the power figures did not meet the modern standards, Santro never disappointed the driver when it comes to delivering what it is expected. The engine was mated to a 5-speed manual transmission which did its job perfectly. Although there was on optional 4 speed automatic later.
SUSPENSION AND BRAKES
Santro came with a McPherson strut with coil spring & anti-roll bar in front and a torsion beam axle with coil spring in the rear. The tires were 155 / 70 R13 with steel rims. Since it has got a large profile tire and an independent suspension in front, the ride was pretty comfortable in its segment. Santro has got ventilated discs at front and drum at the rear. The brake bite and feedback is the one area where santro disappointed.
EXPERIENCE
It’s always been a joy to drive old MPFi engine cars and Santro was no exception. Also, the tall boy design provides the great all-around view with minimal blind spots without being looking like someone who drives a suitcase!! The interior space was also more than adequate for a car of this size and provided well-built quality. The car has got only 9 sensors and most of the components are mechanical which assured hassle-free ownership for a lifetime. Also, the ride comfort is pretty appreciated with the adequate comfortable seats. Even the rear passengers have got adjustable headrests. The car has got adequate storage space, powerful AC and everything in the center console is in the reach of the driver as far the ergonomics are concerned. The rear seats were wide enough to seat 3 people although long journeys will be tiring. When it comes to fuel economy, that’s where the Santro does not put a smile on our face. The company claims 17km/l although it returns only 11-12km/l on an average.
STARTING OF A NEW ERA
Hyundai launched the All-New Santro in 2018. It is based on the new AH2 platform and will get modernized interior with new engine and transmission and there is even an AMT on offer.Hyundai is always famous for its fit and finish and their segment first features and the third generation Santro is no exception. Santro offer rear AC vents, one of the best infotainment screen in its class and lot more. But I think it lost its torquey charm as manufacturers are now concerned for less emissions and more mileage. Also I'm not a big fan of its styling too. Anyway I'm happy they didn't destroy the Santro name but if I have to choose between a Santro zip plus and a 2018 one, I'll definitely go for the zip plus...
