Sep 27, 2006 05:24 PM
10171 Views
(Updated Sep 27, 2006 05:38 PM)
Hyundai Santro, once considered a technologically superior vehicle when compared to its peers has no takers now after Maruti launched the New Wagon R. Its been over 3 years that the Xing was launched but all that Hyundai has been doing in the past 3 years is trimming the accessories in the XING.
As a result it now looks like a poor man's car. All grey and black cheap plastic interiors. ERLX is just a badge on its rear, nothing technical about it as far as engine refinement or better mileage is concerned.
I think its time Hyundai stops comparing Santro to Wagon R. Instead it should now be compared to Maruti Alto or Maruti 800. It fits that category well. Hyundai should reduce its profit margins and pass on the benefits in the form of Cash discount to consumers. Friends, is the car really worth the price ? It Isnt.
The Negative points about Santro are as follows.
Most Santro Owners say that the car gives an average of just 8 to 9 kms per litre in mumbai traffic. Thats too bad for a small car.
The car gives maintenance problems once it crosses 40,000 kms (Only the Santro Xing, not earlier Santro models)
Service cost and Mechanical parts are very expensive.
The Engine makes an irritating HUMMING sound once it touches 80 kms/hr.
Rear Legroom space is pathetic
Boot space is good for nothing.
Seat fabric and door trims are cheap looking.( New Santro Xing)
ERLX is no big deal, just a proper timing of the engine which was'nt done in earlier XIng
Cost cutting is apparent in everything, even the accelerator, brake and clutch pedals have not been spared. (since XS/XG variants were withdrawn)
Airconditioning puts undue stress on the engine and the engine loses power. (Only in Xing, not earlier Santro models).
Santro has hydraulic power steering, not electronic. ( Wagon R has electronic)
The odometer too is not electronic.(Wagon R has electronic and Multi-trip meter)
No Tachometer so you never know the RPM of the engine. ( is Hyundai hiding something).
It has a 16 bit onboard computer whereas Wagon R has 32 bit.
Re-sale value of Xing is poor. Used Car dealers donot offer reasonable price for Santro Xing claiming that the Engine is not as good as earlier Santros. Second hand Xings are available in plenty.
Considering all the above points, I think HYUNDAI is on its way out of India, remember even DAEWOO once claimed to be a Korean Giant when it launched the Cielo but now its defunct ! I think the same holds true for Hyundai. Its not doing any justice to the small car segment, though it was very aggressive 3 years ago.
Well, if any readers or owners of the santro feel that SANTRO is yet capable to compete with Wagon R or Xeta,then please write back in the form of comments. I really dont know in what way Hyundai compares Santro with Wagon R ? Leaving aside the tall boy stance, I dont see anything special in the Santro as compared to Wagon R.
BAD SHOW HYUNDAI !
