Would like to share the reviews of the Santros we have owned. First one was brought in 1998 end, just when Hyundai launched it and we were among the first customers. The car was primarily used by my father. It was the non power steering model. Morever since my father had a heart operation , we were on the lookout for the least stressful car to drive. we appreciated it for its smooth engine and high seating position and sweet gearshift. . At that time all inclusive it was 3.05 lakhs, when the comparable zen was 3.76lakhs.
We had it for around 50, 000 kms with not a rattle or squeak. Everything was like brand new but that has more to do with the exceptional care father takes. The tyres had just started to fade out but it was usable. The only hitch was brake judder after around 1 hour drive that is when the discz get hot. Thankfully Hyundai later switched to ventilated discs on the 1.1 models.
We had to sell our santro just because it didnot have power steering. We sold it(got a good price because of the way father had maintained it, 3 years old). Then we immidaiately brught the new santro zipplus 1.1 top end model. We have it still with us now after 5 and a half years. It has covered 75, 000 plus kms. Only the tyres have been changed, even the clutch is original but that maybe because my father’s main drive is the NH 47 and not the city. The engine and gearbox combo is as refined and smooth as ever. Only negatives which aplies to both generations is that the ride in that back is too bouncy , but ok in the front( so for long drives with family we take our indica). Since the car is used only by father and mother , this is ok. The car is parked near coastal area as my father works near... but still no rusting or paint faiding, plastic , seat fabric wear after all these 5+ years.
The power steering is one of the lightest and most responsive ones around. The engine/gearbox and steering combo is what makes this car terribly easy to drive... we have not looked into mileage as we drive 100% with ac on but still we get around 15km/l overall for both versions.
My family is planning to purchase the new santro I10 because father will be retiring soon. we are planning for the automatic version with sunroof, because father’s drive will be mainly restricted to town.But we are reluctant to sell our current santro and will be keeping it just like a family member. So without a shadow of doubt I recommend the Hyundai to anyone. Servicing is also ok with the dealer and overall a very satisfying ownership experience...