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Today, we're taking a nostalgic journey through India's automotive history, remembering some truly exceptional cars that, for various reasons, are no longer gracing our roads. There was a time when the Indian market was brimming with beautiful, powerful, and technologically advanced vehicles, even as our economy was still finding its footing. Today, we can't help but wish these legends were still around, adding more spice to our daily commutes and weekend adventures.
While some of these cars might, just might, make a comeback, many remain cherished memories. Here are 10 cars that we at MotorOctane, and we're sure many of you, dearly miss:
The Ford Legacy:
Built Tough, Driven Hard
Ford, a brand synonymous with robust performance and driver engagement, offered some truly unforgettable vehicles in India.
1. Ford EcoSport:
Before compact SUVs became the norm, the EcoSport blazed the trail. It was a revelation – fantastic build quality, impressive comfort, and peppy performance from both its petrol and diesel engines. The EcoSport was ahead of its time, offering the technology drivers needed at a competitive price point. Its driving dynamics were simply brilliant, making it a joy on both city streets and open highways. Ford even managed to keep its maintenance costs surprisingly low, contributing to its excellent affordability. Even today, despite not being manufactured locally, the EcoSport commands a strong resale value, a testament to its enduring appeal.
2. Ford Endeavour:
The Endeavour is a full-size SUV that truly left its mark. The good news? There's a strong buzz about its potential return to India, albeit likely via the CBU (Completely Built Unit) import route. While this means a higher price tag of ₹60-70 lakhs (compared to its earlier ₹40 lakh bracket), its dedicated fanbase is ready to pay the premium. In the segment above ₹60-70 lakhs, there's a significant void, with only the Toyota Fortuner positioned below it. Ford, if you're listening, even a CBU approach could reignite your presence and cater to a discerning clientele that values a true-blue SUV.
3. Ford Mondeo:
This might be a deep cut for some, but the Ford Mondeo was a revolutionary sedan, especially 10-20 years ago. Imported from South Africa, it boasted a clean, elegant design, packed with features, and delivered impressive performance (including a diesel engine option, if memory serves right). The Mondeo was a truly amazing package, arguably one of Ford's finest offerings in India. If you appreciate the EcoSport and Endeavour, imagine the Mondeo's impact during its prime.
European Precision: Driving Excellence and Unforgettable Performance
Europe has gifted India with some of the most engaging and well-engineered cars.
4. Volkswagen Polo:
While Volkswagen did bring a limited run of the Golf to India, the Polo is the car that truly holds a special place in many hearts. We still receive countless comments asking about its return. The 1.2-litre turbo petrol and later the 1.0-litre turbo petrol engines, particularly in their GTTSI avatars, were iconic. A return of the Polo would likely require a new platform, which seems challenging but not impossible. Rumors suggest a new Volkswagen SUV, potentially named Polo, could emerge from their current platform (like the Taigun), offering a compact SUV and a hatchback. We eagerly await clarity on this, but a Polo comeback would undoubtedly be fantastic news.
5. Skoda Octavia:
Speaking of Volkswagen, we can't forget Skoda's iconic Octavia. We recently drove the Octavia in Croatia and heard exciting news: the Octavia vRS is being considered for India! While an initial import route would place the vRS at a premium (around ₹60-65 lakh on-road), Skoda has plans for local assembly in the future, potentially bringing the price down to ₹40-45 lakh, and possibly reintroducing a diesel engine option. The vRS, however, is likely to remain an import. An Octavia back in the ₹40-45 lakh range with a diesel option would be an absolute game-changer. We'll have to wait until at least 2026 for more concrete news on this, especially for the diesel variant.
6. Skoda Yeti:
This compact SUV was a personal favorite. The Skoda Yeti, with its 2-litre diesel engine, 6-speed manual gearbox, and 4x4 capability, was a true gem. It offered exceptional comfort for five passengers and was, in our opinion, one of Skoda's most iconic Indian offerings. While a 4x4 might not be feasible on the Kushaq platform, a Yeti-inspired SUV, slightly larger than the Kushaq, could be a revolutionary product for Skoda. Are Volkswagen and Skoda listening?
American Muscle and Japanese Innovation: Power and Practicality
Beyond Ford, another American giant and several Japanese stalwarts offered cars that became household names.
7. Chevrolet Cruze:
The Chevrolet Cruze was a diesel rocket, a true performance machine that set benchmarks in its time. Its 2-litre diesel engine, initially with a manual and later an automatic option, made it one of the quickest cars on Indian roads. It was powerful, spacious, and had decent ground clearance. If Chevrolet were to re-enter the Indian market, the Cruze, a powerful diesel automatic sedan, would be a clear winner. This segment is sorely missed today, with very few brands offering a diesel sedan option.
8. Mitsubishi Pajero:
Before the Fortuner became ubiquitous, the Mitsubishi Pajero reigned supreme. Every Bollywood star seemed to own one. Its macho looks and imposing road presence were unmatched. The dual-tone Pajeros, a result of local assembly limitations, added to its unique appeal. The Pajero was a futuristic vehicle for its time, with its innovative digital dial and a built-in remote in the rear armrest for music control – a technological marvel in the early 2000s. It remains a classic, a testament to its enduring design and capabilities.
9. Honda CR-V:
The Honda CR-V is another lost gem. This SUV, available in both petrol and diesel, was truly fantastic. The last generation's 1.6-liter diesel engine, despite initial skepticism about its size, delivered a respectable 150 bhp and was paired with a 9-speed gearbox. It offered incredible fuel efficiency, even at higher speeds, making it a practical and powerful choice. Sadly, it was perhaps not marketed enough. Today, a well-maintained, low-mileage diesel automatic CR-V is a highly recommended buy – reliable, low maintenance, and packed with comfort and technology.
This list barely scratches the surface,
10.Tata Sumo:
with many other cars like the Tata Sumo also coming to mind.
Now it's your turn! Which one car do you miss the most? Share your thoughts in the comments below! We'll be keeping a close eye on your responses. The car with the most votes will inspire our next "one-miniature" feature, a special tribute to the car you love.
Confused about your next car purchase? Let us help!
That's all for today, folks! We'll be back tomorrow with another exciting video. Until then, take care and love you all! Bye! Thank you 😊