The Hyundai Santro II 1.1i, producing 69 horsepower, represents an entry-level offering within the second generation of the Santro hatchback, launched in 2018. This iteration of the Santro was specifically designed for the Indian market and other price-sensitive regions, aiming to provide affordable and practical transportation. The Santro II, built on a revised platform compared to its predecessor, sought to balance fuel efficiency, compact dimensions, and basic comfort features. This particular 1.1-liter variant served as the foundation of the lineup, offering a cost-effective option for first-time car buyers and urban commuters.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Santro |
| Generation | Santro II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.1i (69 Hp) |
| 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, manual 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 is powered by Hyundai’s Epsilon engine family, specifically the G4HG code. This is a naturally aspirated, inline-four cylinder engine displacing 1086 cubic centimeters (66.27 cubic inches). The engine utilizes a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-point fuel injection system, a common setup for vehicles in this segment. The G4HG engine is known for its simplicity and relatively low maintenance requirements. The engine’s design prioritizes fuel efficiency over outright performance, reflecting its target market. The 5-speed manual transmission is the sole gearbox option for this variant, chosen for its affordability and widespread availability.
Driving Characteristics
The 69 horsepower and 99 Nm (73.02 lb-ft) of torque produced by the 1.1-liter engine translate to modest, but adequate, performance for city driving. Acceleration is not brisk, and overtaking maneuvers require careful planning. The 5-speed manual transmission is geared to maximize fuel economy, with relatively tall gear ratios. This results in a relaxed driving experience at highway speeds, but necessitates frequent downshifts when encountering hills or needing to accelerate quickly. Compared to potential higher-spec variants (which were not widely available with this engine), the 1.1i offers a more economical, but less engaging, driving experience. The focus is on practicality and ease of use rather than sporty handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Santro II 1.1i typically served as the base trim level. Standard equipment generally included basic features such as manual air conditioning, power steering, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional, rather than luxurious, design. Safety features were also basic, usually limited to an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and dual front airbags. Optional extras, depending on the market, could include power windows, central locking, and a more advanced audio system. The overall interior design prioritized durability and ease of cleaning over aesthetic appeal.
Chassis & Braking
The Santro II utilizes a McPherson strut independent suspension setup at the front, providing a reasonable level of ride comfort. The rear suspension employs a torsion beam axle, a cost-effective solution that offers adequate stability. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. The braking system, while adequate for the vehicle’s weight and performance, is not particularly powerful. The relatively small wheel sizes (13 or 14 inches) and tire dimensions (155/80 R13 or 165/70 R14) contribute to a comfortable ride but limit grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Santro II 1.1i was generally well-received in its target markets, particularly for its affordability and fuel efficiency. Critics noted its basic interior and modest performance, but acknowledged that these were acceptable trade-offs for the price. Compared to other entry-level hatchbacks available at the time, the Santro II offered a competitive package in terms of features and reliability. Its fuel economy was a key selling point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The 1.1i variant was often seen as a sensible choice for first-time car owners and those primarily using the vehicle for urban commuting.
Legacy
The Hyundai Santro II 1.1i, while not a performance icon, has proven to be a relatively reliable and durable vehicle. The G4HG engine is known for its longevity, and maintenance costs are generally low. In the used car market, these Santros are often sought after for their affordability and practicality. While not particularly collectible, they represent a significant part of Hyundai’s history in emerging markets, demonstrating the company’s ability to produce affordable and reliable transportation for a wide range of consumers. The Santro II laid the groundwork for Hyundai’s continued success in the small car segment.
