Fuhrer_Hurricane
!!!.All of the Maruti-Suzukis in this thread are in the price range of INR 1.9 to INR 4.7 lacs, making owning a brand new car a reality for the average middle class man/woman in India.And except for the Esteem, they're quite contemporary stylistically and technologically.The old Baleno sells for INR 5.75 lacs and it's replacement, the SX4 based sedan is due to be released within a month with a price of INR 6.5 to 7 lacs approx.Still, a bargain in my opinion.These cars can be fixed , if needed by any roadside mechanic and like Hyundai Motor India offer excellent dealer coverage and services.
Regarding the Esteem, one gets a sedan fully loaded with a/c , power windows and stereo for INR 4.54 lac!.This car is also being replaced by an all new design specific to the Indian market.Release date is end of this year.Maruti is taking a leaf out of the success of the Ford(India) Fiesta sedan which is made only in India for the domestic market.That car is a runaway success for Ford.
There are no premiums paid or expected.Infact, dealer discounts and incentives are the norm in India.Recently my cousin purchased an used 2006 Santro Xing hatch.The car came with 1 year warranty and 1 free service coupon.The car was serviced free and a problem with the ball-bearing joint was also fixed free of charge at the Hyundai service station closest to his residence.The car was dropped off at 10am in the morning and driven away at 615p , owner fully satisfied!.