There is so much written about the Santro . Yet I want to write about mine. That is because this car has got a special place in my heart for its reliability and for the fond memories I associate with it. All this despite my Santro being the basic version with no power steering or power windows .
I would like to review based on some words which I associate with this car :-
Young & Sporty
This is a young and sporty first car to have . It does not look dull like the Wagon R . It also feels young and sporty as you drive it .The driver involvement is surely better than Wagon R .It has very good ground clearance and also cuts corners better than Wagon R . However the weakpoint is suspension - I feel Wagon r’s suspension is better. But if you are young and sporty and driving your own car then it surely is better than Wagon R which I would prefer if I am being driven around.And I still think that this is a better deal than blowing your money buying a Suzuki Swift .
Ages Well
The Santro has aged very well and after 3-4 years it still looks young but I would not hazard a guess on the Swift after 3-4 years . You get used to the cars sharp looks and it just grows on you. Though I have a grey Santro , a white or a dark blue santro surely looks one of the best machines on the road even today .
Above the Traffic
The Seating postion in teh Santro is pretty uppish compared to other cars and so you look down at the traffic on most occasions. This also helps if you are navigating a crowded street and you want to avoid hitting some dog running across as the view is good.But this becomes pain sometime sin the night as all the headlamps hit your eyes straight !!!
Okay leg Space
Actually leg space is a department they can still improve. or may be I find it so because I am too tall by nirmal standards. Four people is okay but making five people sit in this is pretty cramped .
Road Control
This is another feature I like about Santro. it has got good road grip . I have always fancied myself a Schumacher driving on a rainy day with those Brdgestone tyres underneath. Many a trip on rainy days I am happy that I am on my santro - I feel n control.
A/C Blast
Well - simply put its the best A/c in town . No other small car comes even close. Switch on the A?c and max 2-3 minutes the heat is gone. However the defrost on the side windows sometimes blocks your vision.
Service @ Home
The service guys at chennai have always been professional in routine or even in break down service and I feel safe giving the car into their hands.Most of the times they come home to take the car .
Plasticky panel
Thats my other problem with Santro . the front panel is too plasticky and weak .May be some more inspiration could have gone into designing this part of the car