10 Forgotten Cars from the Past: Part III

By Aquib Nawab

Car Models

The Hyundai Tucson, a Honda CR-V competitor with a turbo diesel option, disappeared from Indian roads in just five years after its 2005 debut, making it an uncommon sight.

Hyundai Tucson

Nissan Teana

A petrol-only competitor to Passat, Superb, Accord, and Camry, struggled due to high pricing as it was imported as a completely built unit (CBU), discouraging potential buyers.

Sipani Automobiles, Bangalore, tried innovation in India, but the Rover Montego didn't succeed. Austin Montego sedan & wagon didn't gain traction.

Rover Montego

Fiat Siena/Petra

The Palio hatchback to Siena sedan transition, later Petra, didn't click with Indian consumers. Despite Sachin Tendulkar's endorsement, Fiat faced trust issues, resulting in low sales.

Fiat's Palio Weekend, a station wagon from a struggling sedan, was an unusual move. Predictably rare on Indian roads, rarer than a Lamborghini.

Fiat Palio Weekend

General Motors unveiled the Chevrolet SR-V, a sporty hatch in India, pioneering premium hatchbacks. A rebranded Daewoo Lacetti, known for speed, hindered by high cost.

Chevrolet SR-V

Mercedes G-Wagen sold in India as Force Judo with a turbo diesel engine. Force Motors' unusual sales strategy meant long waits, leading to discontinuation.

Force Judo

Nissan's previous attempt with the X-Trail faced challenges primarily due to its high price tag stemming from CBU import. The upcoming model is likely to encounter similar hurdles.

Nissan X-Trail

Opel Astra, especially in Club trim, a luxury car of its era. Petrol & diesel options, but high price & maintenance led to low sales. Rare find for car enthusiasts now.

Opel Astra

Ford's first Indian-made car, the Escort, in the C-segment sedan category. Hindered by costly maintenance and reliability problems, it struggled to gain traction.

Ford Escort