Hyundai Hits 9 Million Sales In India: Tracing The Journey from Santro to Creta EV

Time of India

02-05-2025

Hyundai Motor India has crossed an impressive 9 million sales in India since its inception in 1996, cementing its position as one of the most successful automobile brands in the country. This remarkable milestone highlights Hyundai's sustained growth and adaptability in the Indian market over nearly three decades. The company's achievement is underscored by its continued expansion, with the brand now capturing a substantial share of both the domestic and export markets. Hyundai's consistent innovation and attention to customer preferences have been key to its success, from its humble beginnings with the Santro to the present-day launch of its Creta EV.
Early Days: The Santro and its Impact
When Hyundai first entered the Indian market in 1996, it marked a turning point in the country's automotive landscape. The launch of the Santro, Hyundai's first car in India, revolutionised the small car segment. Its tall-boy design, spacious cabin, and efficient performance made it an instant hit among Indian buyers. The Santro's success helped Hyundai establish itself as a trusted brand and laid the foundation for the company's long-term growth in the country. It wasn't just a car; it became a symbol of affordability and modernity, attracting millions of Indian families.
Expanding the Portfolio: The i-Series and the Verna
After the success of the Santro, Hyundai continued to expand its offerings with the introduction of models such as the i10, i20, and the Verna. The i10, launched in 2007, brought modern design elements and increased practicality to the hatchback segment. Its successor, the Grand i10, further refined the design and added even more features to cater to the evolving needs of urban buyers.
The i20, launched in 2008, marked Hyundai's entry into the premium hatchback market. With its stylish design, quality interiors, and advanced features, the i20 quickly became a favourite among buyers looking for a high-performance hatchback. Similarly, the Verna, launched in 2006, solidified Hyundai's position in the sedan market with its fluidic design, efficient engines, and well-equipped interiors, appealing to those who sought a balance between performance and luxury.
The SUV Revolution: Creta, Venue, and More
Hyundai's journey took a significant turn with the launch of the Creta in 2015. The compact SUV quickly became a market leader, offering a blend of stylish design, high-tech features, and premium build quality. The Creta set the standard for mid-size SUVs in India and contributed significantly to Hyundai's rise to the top of the SUV segment.
Following the Creta's success, Hyundai introduced the Venue in 2019. This compact SUV catered to the growing demand for smaller, more affordable SUVs while offering advanced technology, including embedded eSIM for seamless connectivity. The Venue's compact size and tech-forward approach appealed to the younger generation of urban buyers, solidifying Hyundai's dominance in the compact SUV market.
The Alcazar, Hyundai's three-row SUV, entered the market to cater to families who needed more space and seating capacity. It offered a premium design and advanced features, quickly establishing itself as a favourite in the family SUV segment. Hyundai's premium SUV, the Tucson, further elevated the brand's image, offering a blend of luxury and performance.
Pioneering the Electric Revolution: Creta EV and the Future
Hyundai made its entry into the electric vehicle (EV) market with the
Kona Electric
, launched in 2019. This marked the company's commitment to sustainable mobility and innovation. The Kona Electric received positive feedback for its impressive range, modern design, and eco-friendly credentials.
Building on this momentum, Hyundai has now launched the Creta EV, which promises to push the brand further into the rapidly growing EV market. With its familiar design language and advanced electric technology, the Creta EV is set to become a game-changer in the Indian market, providing customers with an eco-conscious alternative to the traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.
The 'Make in India' Initiative and Global Expansion
Hyundai's success is also tied to its strong commitment to the 'Make in India, Made for the World' initiative. The company's manufacturing plant in India has played a crucial role in producing vehicles not only for the domestic market but also for export. Hyundai's export sales saw a significant growth of 21% year-on-year in April 2025, further strengthening its presence in the global automotive market.
With increasing export volumes and a solid presence in the Indian market, Hyundai continues to meet the demands of both domestic and international customers. Its ability to adapt to evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements has ensured its continued dominance in the competitive automotive industry.
Hyundai's Lasting Impact on India's Automotive Landscape
Hyundai's journey in India has been marked by innovation, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. The company's ability to deliver vehicles that cater to the diverse needs of Indian consumers has helped it maintain its position as one of the country's leading automobile manufacturers. From the Santro's revolutionary entry into the small car market to the launch of the Creta EV, Hyundai has continuously shaped India's automotive future. With its strong presence in both the domestic and export markets, Hyundai is well-positioned to continue its success for years to come.