The Maruti 800 captured the country’s imagination in the 1980s; words of admiration flowed, noting that for Indian roads and requirements, a car of that size was ideal. It ruled the roost. Other brands like Hyundai’s Santro also enjoyed success. But now, why is the small car segment, once the mainstay of the entire market, struggling to grow in India?

Script & Presentation: K. Bharat Kumar
Ideation: Nivedita V
Editing: Shibu Narayan
Published – March 12, 2025 08:20 pm IST