A low-cost Hyundai Santro (Alto rival) could be in the making - Report

India surely has a soft corner for entry-level cars and no wonder why the Maurti Alto is one of the top-selling models here. Feeling the absence in this segment because of the Eon's discontinuation, Hyundai is considering a stripped-down version of the Santro.

In FY2019, in the entry-level car segment, which comprised models like Eon, Wagon R (previous-gen), Maruti Alto and Renault Kwid, 4,70,482 units were sold. The discontinuation of the Eon has left empty-handed in this segment which has such a huge potential.

The new-gen Hyundai Santro was launched as a slightly more premium offering, and hence no longer serve to the entry-level car audience in India. This move was made because the company believe that car buying trend is taking a flight and modern car buyers now prefer more features, convince and comfort over pricing. On that matter, Seon Seob Kim, MD and CEO, Hyundai Motor India, said: "We are witnessing a trend where a lot of entry segment customers are moving upwards." "There is a huge demand and potential for growth there," he said.

Developing a dedicated model competing with the Renault Kwid and Maruti Alto would prove to be too expensive. Instead, Hyundai may simply introduce a stripped-down Santro, probably the same way introduced a Prime variant (for fleet operators) of the Grand i10 and Xcent in the past.

Also Read: Hyundai Venue series production commences in India

The stripped-down Hyundai Santro would be positioned below the Hyundai Santro D-Lite*. It may not come with features like remote tailgate open, remote fuel lid open, dual-tone interior, interior colour garnish and foldable rear seats. It could be priced under INR 3.5 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

*Priced at INR 3.90 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi)

[Source - AutocarIndia]