Once a popular mini hatchback, the Hyundai Santro is seeing renewed interest as older models become sought after in a market dominated by high car prices.
Nearly 15 years ago, the Hyundai Santro was one of Pakistan’s most favored mini hatchback cars, especially before the influx of Japanese imports. It was seen as a substantial upgrade from the locally produced Suzuki Mehran, with its more modern design, superior comfort, and enhanced suspension system.
Despite these advantages, the Santro struggled with resale value due to the financial collapse of its distributor, Dewan Farooque Motors Limited, which halted operations in Pakistan in 2009.
Renewed demand amid rising car prices
In 2024, the landscape has shifted, with a significant rise in car prices spurring demand for affordable, used vehicles. The Hyundai Santro, once overshadowed by other cars, is now seeing a resurgence in the used car market. Potential buyers are turning to older models like the Santro, Suzuki Khyber, and Suzuki Alto as alternatives to newer vehicles with prohibitively high price tags.
On online car trading platforms, sellers are asking up to Rs1.7 million for a 2009 Hyundai Santro, while models as old as 2005 are listed for over Rs1.5 million. This renewed interest in the Santro is driven by its reputation for comfort and reliability, features that made it a popular choice during its original production run.
The 1.0-litre in-line four-cylinder engine, known as the Epsilon engine, provided a balance of power and efficiency, offering 55 BHP and 82 Nm of torque. Paired with a five-speed manual transmission, it delivered a smooth and comfortable ride compared to its competitors, like the Suzuki Mehran.
Read More :Here are the reasons why gold prices are increasing in Pakistan
Viable alternative to expensive options
The Santro’s advanced suspension system and ride quality have made it a more attractive option in a market where even basic models of the Suzuki Mehran are being sold for as much as Rs2 million.
For buyers unwilling to pay premium prices for less comfortable vehicles, the Santro offers a better alternative, combining comfort with affordability, despite its age and the higher prices it now commands in the used car market.
The Santro’s legacy, initially marred by its brand’s withdrawal from the market, seems to have taken on a new life, providing a nostalgic yet practical option for those navigating Pakistan’s increasingly expensive automotive landscape.
