The Hyundai Santro II 1.1i Automatic, launched in 2018, represents a significant iteration of Hyundai’s popular city car, primarily targeted towards the Indian and select Asian markets. This variant, powered by the Epsilon engine and paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, occupied the entry-level position within the Santro II lineup, offering a convenient and affordable option for urban commuters. It was designed to appeal to buyers seeking ease of driving and fuel efficiency in congested city environments. The Santro II itself was a revival of the original Santro, a model that had enjoyed considerable success in the late 1990s and early 2000s, and was built on a completely new platform compared to its predecessor.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Santro |
| Generation | Santro II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.1i (69 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 69 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 99 Nm @ 4500 rpm / 73.02 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Epsilon / G4HG |
| Engine displacement | 1086 cm3 / 66.27 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3 l / 3.17 US qt | 2.64 UK qt |
| Coolant | 5 l / 5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt |
| Fuel tank capacity | 35 l / 9.25 US gal | 7.7 UK gal |
| Length | 3610 mm / 142.13 in. |
| Width | 1645 mm / 64.76 in. |
| Height | 1560 mm / 61.42 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2400 mm / 94.49 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | independent torsion suspension |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 155/80 R13; 165/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 13; 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Santro II 1.1i Automatic is powered by Hyundai’s Epsilon engine, specifically the G4HG code. This is a four-cylinder, inline engine with a displacement of 1086 cc (66.27 cubic inches). The engine utilizes a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain and a multi-point fuel injection system. This configuration was chosen for its balance of simplicity, reliability, and fuel efficiency. The engine produces 69 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 99 Nm (73.02 lb-ft) of torque at 4500 rpm. The automatic transmission is a conventional 5-speed unit, designed to provide smooth shifts and ease of use in urban traffic. It’s important to note that this engine and transmission pairing was specifically tuned for economy rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The driving experience in the Santro II 1.1i Automatic is geared towards comfort and convenience. Acceleration is modest, with the 69 hp engine providing adequate power for city driving but feeling strained on inclines or when fully loaded. The automatic transmission contributes to a relaxed driving experience, eliminating the need for constant gear changes. However, compared to the manual transmission versions of the Santro II, the automatic suffers from a slight performance deficit. The gear ratios are optimized for fuel economy, resulting in a somewhat leisurely pace. The steering is light and easy to maneuver, making it ideal for navigating tight city streets. Overall, the driving characteristics prioritize usability over sporty handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.1i Automatic trim level of the Santro II typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power steering, and basic audio system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with a functional and durable design. Higher trim levels offered optional extras like central locking, power windows, and a more advanced audio system with Bluetooth connectivity. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), which was a notable addition for a vehicle in this segment. The dashboard layout was simple and intuitive, focusing on ease of use. The overall interior ambiance was practical and aimed at providing a comfortable experience for passengers.
Chassis & Braking
The Santro II utilizes a McPherson strut independent suspension system at the front, providing a reasonable level of ride comfort. The rear suspension employs a torsion beam setup, which is a cost-effective solution for compact cars. The front brakes are disc brakes, offering better stopping power than drum brakes, while the rear brakes are drum brakes to keep costs down. The ABS system enhances braking safety by preventing wheel lockup during emergency stops. Tire sizes typically ranged from 155/80 R13 to 165/70 R14, depending on the trim level. The chassis was designed to provide a balance between ride comfort and handling stability, prioritizing a smooth ride over sporty cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Santro II 1.1i Automatic received mixed reviews. Critics praised its affordability, ease of driving, and fuel efficiency. However, the engine’s lack of power and the automatic transmission’s somewhat sluggish performance were common criticisms. Compared to other trims in the Santro II lineup, such as the 1.2L manual version, the 1.1i Automatic offered less performance but greater convenience. In terms of fuel economy, the automatic version was slightly less efficient than the manual, but still offered competitive figures for its class. The Santro II as a whole was well-received in the Indian market, competing with models like the Maruti Suzuki Wagon R and Tata Tiago.
Legacy
The Hyundai Santro II 1.1i Automatic, while not a performance standout, proved to be a reliable and practical city car. The Epsilon engine, while simple in design, is known for its durability and relatively low maintenance costs. In the used car market, these Santros are generally considered to be a good value for money, offering a comfortable and affordable transportation option. However, potential buyers should be aware of the engine’s limited power and the automatic transmission’s age. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and transmission servicing, is crucial to ensure the longevity of this powertrain. The Santro II, and specifically this automatic variant, played a role in establishing Hyundai as a major player in the Indian automotive market.
