We spied the soon-to-be-launched Hyundai Santro small hatchback going through the final stages of testing on the busy roads of Pune.
The 2019 Hyundai Santro (code named AH2) is probably in the city to undergo ARAI certification. These new spy pictures give a clear view of the car’s front and rear design. It is a modern tallboy concept with spacious interiors meant for comfort and yet not compromising on styling. Although the test mule was completely camouflaged, the car’s silhouette seems similar to most Hyundai small cars, especially the Grand i10. Look closer and one can also see the outline of the hexagonal front grille which remains true to the family design.
The good news is that the new model seems to be larger than the original Santro, and the Eon which it will be replacing. Knowing Hyundai, the new car will probably be packed with more features and a plusher interior than the competition in its segment. We feel it will be equipped with a dash-mounted gear lever, and higher variants could also feature a touchscreen infotainment system.
Since the new Santro will be based on a more robust Hyundai i10 platform, it is expected to be more rigid and safer than the made-for-a-cost Eon. Going by the new safety norms, the 2019 Santro should sport dual front airbags and ABS as standard. Though more details will be revealed closer to the launch scheduled on October 23, we expect it to come with an updated version of the 1.1-litre petrol engine which powered the Santro Xing. Going with the recent trend, we’re sure the new Santro will also be available with the option of an Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) based on a five-speed gearbox.
Hyundai had run a contest inviting people to suggest a name for the new small car, which received over four lakh entries. Out of this over two lakh entries came for the ‘Santro’ name, however, the official name will be revealed on October 9. According to rumours, the new car may just carry the ‘Santro’ name with a suffix, similar to what Hyundai did with the ‘Santro Xing’.
Competitors for the new Hyundai car would be the likes of the Maruti Suzuki Alto, Datsun Go, and the Renault Kwid. There is no word on the official pricing yet but, expect it to be in the same region as its competition. We shall keep you posted on any other information we receive from now until the official launch later this year, which, we believe, will be an extravagant affair.
EDIT October 9: The ‘Santro’ name is now confirmed and first official shots have emerged and so have some details. Bookings begin on October 10. The car will be launched on October 23.
The new Hyundai Santro will use a 1.1-liter four-cylinder petrol engine making 69 PS at 5,500 rpm and 99 Nm at 4,500 rpm. It will offer an option of petrol or CNG, and also a choice of a manual transmission or an automated unit (AMT). Features will be where it really shines. With a 7.0-inch centre touchscreen, smartphone connectivity via Apple CarPlay, Android Auto or MirrorLink and iBlue audio remote, as well as voice recognition. Hyundai also claim improved isolation for engine, road and wind noise, and a strong body structure.
