Hyundai Santro

The name may be the same, but the new Hyundai Santro is far removed from the original. In fact, name aside, the...

The name may be the same, but the new Hyundai Santro is far removed from the original. In fact, name aside, the engine is the only common element between Santros old and new. The latest model is also positioned slightly higher up the price ladder but hopes to justify its higher price tag with premium features. The new Hyundai Santro is available in petrol-manual, petrol-AMT auto and CNG-manual forms.

Where the original Santro was renowned for its high roof 'tall boy' design, the new model has a more co...

Where the original Santro was renowned for its high roof 'tall boy' design, the new model has a more conventional silhouette. Styling is neat but the oversized front grille is polarising. What Hyundai has successfully managed to do is make the cabin feel upmarket despite some obvious cost-cutting. There's plenty of room in the back as well and the feeling of space is enhanced by the large rear windows.
While the Santro’s 69hp, 1.1-litre petrol engine is refined and offers reasonable performance, the 5-speed manual isn't the slickest. On the positive side, the AMT auto is well in tune with the engine's character and offers timely shifts for the most part. A light steering and tight turning circle make the Santro easy to punt around town in, while the pliant suspension does a good job of bump absorption.

The petrol-AMT is the version of the Santro we'd recommend. It is pricier than the manual but the additiona...

The petrol-AMT is the version of the Santro we'd recommend. It is pricier than the manual but the additional outlay also buys you the convenience of clutch-free travel. Moreover, the AMT auto's good fuel economy means running costs are almost at par with the manual's. Of the petrol-AMT autos on offer, the Sportz that features a 7.0-inch touchscreen is the one to buy.