When Hyundai launched the Santro in India in 1998, it was welcomed widely by the Indian car buyer. Till then, only the Maruti 800 was the sole player and the market was looking for a challenger. Already a respected name in Korea and other developed and emerging markets where it was introduced, the hatchback brought in a different sense of styling and features within. Besides, the drivability was very good and the maintenance costs were seen to be quite low.
The Santro got an upgrade in 2003 and it became known, officially, as Hyundai Santro Xing. Launched with the 1.1 litre epsilon unit, the engine was competent and promised good performance and credible mileage. The 63 BHP it powered also was sufficient for in-city driving which was what the car was most supposed to be bought for.
The tallboy stance now popularized by the original Santro now looked more elegant in the new Hyundai Santro Xing. Besides the looks, it also meant more headroom inside. There is space enough for 4 occupants but a fifth passenger might mean a cramped backseat. Interiors look functional. The dashboard has scoops and curves and the central console houses the music system. The round air conditioner vents and the instrument cluster alternate in grey and black. Storage is basic. In all, the fit and finish is impressive, something that most Hyundai cars have displayed.
The design also allowed for easy drivability thanks to good vision possible from the driver’s seat. It turned out to be ideal for city conditions with a responsive steering and easy gear shifts. The acceleration is also nimble making for easy maneuverability in thick stop and go traffic that most Indian cities have. While the handling is very good in the city, it can get a little unsettled on bad roads. The ride also is on the stiffer side and thuds from potholes can seep into the car.
There is also an automatic version that exists which is fairly competent though the one that released later in the i10 was more widely accepted in India.
One of Hyundai cars biggest strengths is its footprint in India. They have ensured they have a wide range of dealer network and service centres. Over the years, they have built a good reputation, matched only by Maruti, of service levels. Even otherwise, their cars are as easy to maintain as they are to run. Adherence to the service guidelines will always ensure these cars last longer and without problems. Mileage also is respectable with city driving getting 12-13 kilometres to the litre and 15-16 in the highways.
The Hyundai Santro Xing clearly is one of the most loved cars India has seen.
