I have a Hyundai Santro Zip Plus LS model for 3 years now. The design and engineering is excellent!
Cost of vehicle and fuel efficieny is excellent, I have been getting 18kmpl in Bangalore city consistently! 22 kmpl on highway run.
The first one year after I bought the vehicle, I found the service excellent as well. Unfortunately, over the years, there is a clear cut indication in fall of service levels. It appears that Hyundai is not taking the measures to match their market growth with equally efficient service forces. If that is so, then they are making a big mistake.
My advice to folks:-
1. A good bargain for your money compared to all other cars of the same class. I have friends who have bought a Zen and a Maruti Wagon R at abou the same time as me and on the whole my Santro seems to take the cake of being the best choice as I discuss experiences with them.
2. Make sure you have access to a proper service center that is known to do a good job. Dont go blindly for the reputation, check with people who have been using it. A 50-50 rating for service keeping in mind the current scenario.
3. Make sure service is carried out as scheduled. The vehicle remains in great shape only because of this.
4. For good mileage, remember two things: right gear for the right speed, no jerky speedy movement of vehicle, keep it smooth and when the roads are free, withinthe range of 45 - 65. A high rating for cost efficiency here.
5. In its range, Hyundai Santro is amongst the safest (if not the safest). Hence a positive rating here for the safety oriented folks.
- Looks is not the best. Hence a lower rating for that.
FOLLOWUP 7 YEARS AFTER BUYING:
Very happy with the choice I made 7 years back. My Santro has been faithful, and a comfortable vehicle, reliable and nice. While this model no longer exists, as long as the new ones are enhancements over this, it would be a good thing for the automobile industry and buyers.