Hyundai crosses 9 million India sales since 1996: Santro to Creta EV's journey decoded

Hyundai Motor India Limited, today, announced that it has surpassed domestic sales of 9 million units since it began operations in 1996. This milestone reflects Hyundai’s expansion in India’s automobile sector over nearly thirty years. The company also recorded total monthly sales of 60,774 units in April 2025, comprising domestic sales of 44,374 units and export sales of 16,400 units.

Additionally, the company reported over 21% year-on-year growth in vehicle exports for April 2025, further strengthening its commitment to the ‘Make in India, Made for the World’ initiative. Between January and April 2025, Hyundai recorded a 16.2% increase in export volumes compared to the same period in the previous year.

Now speaking of crossing 9 million India sales since 1996, the journey began with the launch of the iconic Hyundai Santro, which revolutionised the small car segment and established the brand as a household name. With its tall-boy stance, modern features, spacious cabin and peppy performance, the Santro quickly gained popularity and played a pivotal role in establishing Hyundai as a trusted and aspirational brand among Indian consumers.

Over the years, Hyundai steadily expanded its portfolio with models like the i10, i20, Verna, Venue and more, with each of them catering to evolving customer needs. Hyundai built on the success of the Santro by broadening its vehicle lineup to reach a wider customer base. The launch of the i10 and later the Grand i10 introduced new design elements and increased practicality in the hatchback segment.

The i20 further advanced Hyundai’s position in the premium hatchback market, offering high-end interiors, updated features, and a design influenced by global trends. These hatchbacks appealed to urban buyers prioritizing performance, efficiency, and modern features. In the sedan segment, Hyundai reinforced its market presence with the Verna. The model gained traction for its fluidic design, multiple engine choices, and a well-equipped interior.


Hyundai’s entry into the SUV segment gained momentum with the launch of the Creta in 2015, marking a turning point for the brand in India. Introduced amid rising demand for compact and mid-size SUVS, the Creta gained popularity for its design, elevated stance, and premium features, helping Hyundai become the leading player in the segment.

Following the Creta’s success, Hyundai launched the Venue in 2019, which was among the first compact SUVS to offer embedded esim technology for advanced connectivity. Its compact design and tech-forward approach appealed to urban buyers. Hyundai later introduced the Alcazar, a three-row SUV targeting the family segment with additional seating, upgraded interiors, and modern features. The Tucson, positioned as a premium global SUV, further improved Hyundai’s image in India. Most recently, Hyundai entered the electric vehicle segment with the launch of the Kona Electric, marking its initial move toward sustainable mobility. The company has now introduced the Creta EV, aiming to strengthen its presence in the growing EV market.


In short, Hyundai has been able to get success in the complicated Indian market and retain it because of the ability to deliver on customer requirements and expectations. This ability to respond quickly to changing market demands has allowed it become a major player in the country to an extent that India today ranks as a larger market for the brand than China and not many foreign brands enjoy the same stronghold in India. Which is your favourite Hyundai over the years? Let us know in the comments.