The Hyundai Santro is one of the most popular and well-recognized hatchbacks in the automotive industry.
Since its initial launch, the car has gained immense popularity for its compact design, affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. Hyundai reintroduced the Santro with a modern touch while retaining its legacy as a reliable and budget-friendly car.
In this detailed guide, we will explore everything about the Hyundai Santro, including design, features, performance, safety, mileage, pros & cons, and frequently asked questions (FAQs).
Overview of Hyundai Santro
The Hyundai Santro has been a household name since its debut. Known for its practicality, comfort, and affordability, the Santro is a perfect city car for daily commutes and small families.
The car offers a spacious cabin, fuel-efficient engine, and modern technology features, making it a well-rounded hatchback in the budget segment.
Key Highlights of Hyundai Santro:
✔ Compact and stylish design
✔ Spacious and comfortable interiors
✔ Fuel-efficient engine options
✔ Advanced safety features
✔ Affordable pricing
Design and Exterior
The Hyundai Santro boasts a modern yet practical design. It features a sleek front grille, large swept-back headlamps, and stylish bumper design, giving it a contemporary look. The side profile is well-defined with character lines, body-colored ORVMs (Outside Rear View Mirrors), and attractive wheel covers. The rear design is simple yet elegant, with large tail lamps and a sporty bumper.
Exterior Features:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Front Grille | Signature Hyundai Cascade grille |
| Headlamps | Large swept-back halogen headlamps |
| Fog Lamps | Available in higher variants |
| ORVMs | Body-colored with integrated turn indicators |
| Wheels | 14-inch steel wheels with covers |
| Roof Rails | Not available |
| Rear Design | Stylish tail lamps and sporty bumper |
Interior and Comfort
The Hyundai Santro offers a premium and spacious cabin. The dual-tone dashboard with silver accents enhances the premium feel. The seats are well-cushioned, providing ample support for both the driver and passengers. The car has plenty of legroom and headroom, making it a comfortable ride even for long journeys.
Interior Features:
✔ Touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
✔ Steering-mounted controls for easy access
✔ Power windows for convenience
✔ Rear AC vents (rare in this segment)
✔ Adjustable headrests for comfort
The 480L boot space is decent for a small hatchback, allowing you to carry essential luggage for trips.
Engine and Performance
The Hyundai Santro is powered by a 1.1-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine, which delivers a balanced mix of performance and fuel efficiency. It is available with both 5-speed manual and AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) options.
Engine Specifications:
| Engine Type | 1.1L Petrol |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1086 cc |
| Power Output | 69 PS @ 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 99 Nm @ 4500 RPM |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual / AMT |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / CNG |
The Santro offers a smooth and refined drive, making it an ideal choice for city driving. The AMT variant is especially convenient for those who prefer hassle-free driving.
Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
One of the key highlights of the Hyundai Santro is its impressive fuel efficiency. The petrol variant delivers around 20 km/l, while the CNG variant offers even better mileage, making it a great option for cost-conscious buyers.
| Variant | Mileage (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Petrol (Manual) | 20.3 km/l |
| Petrol (AMT) | 20.0 km/l |
| CNG | 30.5 km/kg |
The Santro’s fuel efficiency ensures lower running costs, making it an economical choice.
Safety Features
Hyundai has ensured a good safety package in the Santro, making it a reliable family car.
Key Safety Features:
✔ Dual airbags (driver & passenger)
✔ ABS with EBD for better braking control
✔ Rear parking sensors for easy parking
✔ Speed-sensing door locks
✔ Impact-sensing auto door unlock
While the safety features are decent, Hyundai could have included additional features like rear parking camera and side airbags in the higher variants.
Variants and Pricing
The Hyundai Santro comes in multiple variants to cater to different budgets and needs.
Variant-wise Pricing (Approximate):
| Variant | Price (Ex-Showroom) |
|---|---|
| Era (Base) | ₹4.87 lakh |
| Magna | ₹5.31 lakh |
| Sportz | ₹5.99 lakh |
| Asta (Top) | ₹6.45 lakh |
| CNG Variant | ₹6.10 lakh |
Note: Prices may vary depending on location and dealer discounts.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
✔ Compact design for city driving
✔ Spacious and comfortable interiors
✔ Fuel-efficient petrol and CNG options
✔ Rear AC vents – unique in the segment
✔ Affordable maintenance costs
Cons:
❌ No diesel engine option
❌ Lacks rear parking camera in lower variants
❌ AMT is not as smooth as some competitors
Hyundai Santro vs Competitors
| Feature | Hyundai Santro | Maruti WagonR | Tata Tiago |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.1L Petrol | 1.0L / 1.2L Petrol | 1.2L Petrol |
| Mileage | 20.3 km/l | 22 km/l | 20 km/l |
| Rear AC Vents | Yes | No | No |
| Safety | Dual Airbags, ABS | Dual Airbags, ABS | Dual Airbags, ABS |
| Price | ₹4.87 – ₹6.45 L | ₹5.54 – ₹7.42 L | ₹5.60 – ₹7.95 L |
While the WagonR offers more space, and the Tiago provides better safety features, the Santro stands out with its rear AC vents, smooth drive, and affordability.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Is Hyundai Santro a good car for long drives?
Yes, the Santro is comfortable for long drives, especially for small families, thanks to its spacious cabin and fuel-efficient engine.
Does Hyundai Santro have automatic transmission?
Yes, the Santro is available with a 5-speed AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) for a smoother driving experience.
Which variant of Hyundai Santro is best?
The Sportz variant offers a balance of features and affordability, making it the best choice for most buyers.
Is Santro a good car for beginners?
Yes, the Santro is easy to drive, has light steering, good visibility, and smooth handling, making it a great choice for first-time car buyers.
What is the maintenance cost of Hyundai Santro?
The yearly maintenance cost is relatively low, around ₹5,000 – ₹7,000, making it an economical car to own.
Conclusion
The Hyundai Santro remains a top choice in the budget hatchback segment. With its modern design, fuel-efficient engine, comfortable interiors, and Hyundai’s reliability, it is an excellent option for urban commuters and small families. If you’re looking for an affordable, stylish, and practical hatchback, the Hyundai Santro is definitely worth considering!
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