Timeless Classics: India's longest-serving car nameplates

These cars are like timeless classics, enduring the test of time and still cruising on our roads.

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Oldest running nameplates that are still on sale in India | Timeless classics on the roads

Introduction

In India, some cars have been around for a very long time but are still available for purchase. These cars are like timeless classics, enduring the test of time and still cruising on our roads. Let's take a closer look at these oldest running nameplates that continue to be sold in India, showcasing their lasting charm and popularity among car enthusiasts.

Mercedes Benz E-Class: 1995

Partnering with Tata, Mercedes Benz introduced the E-Class sedan as their first official car in India, marking 28 years of its enduring legacy. This vehicle redefined luxury, setting a benchmark for all upcoming premium vehicles. Remarkably, it still stands out for its comfort to rear passengers, making it a prominent choice in the market.

Honda City: 1998

In 1998, Honda made its Indian debut with the City. The first-generation model, equipped with a 1.5-litre i-VTEC engine producing 102PS, became an instant hit for its looks and performance. It quickly became one of the most sophisticated sedans of its time, capturing the hearts of many enthusiasts. However, over the generations, some argue that the car's premium quality has diminished, with the first generation being the pinnacle. Nevertheless, the City, now in its 5th generation, still holds a special place in the hearts of many, retaining its charm despite the changing times.

Mahindra Bolero: 2000

The Bolero is the most outdated model on this list because it hasn't seen any significant updates in the last two decades. This rugged workhorse, primarily favoured in the commercial market, has maintained immense popularity. Surprisingly, it sells well, securing a spot in the top 25 best-selling cars list. Additionally, the Bolero later gave rise to a highly successful pickup truck variant.

Maruti Suzuki Wagon-R: 1999

The Wagon R, an icon in the Indian market, is beloved for its tall-boy and practical design, a sentiment shared by many even today. Its spacious interior and practicality have always been standout features. Currently in its fourth generation, the Wagon R continues to be a no-nonsense practical car with impressive fuel economy and a roomy cabin. Its popularity remains evident as it consistently ranks among the top 3 most sold cars in India every month.

Mahindra Scorpio: 2002

When SUVs were a fresh concept in the Indian market, Mahindra introduced the Scorpio, instantly winning hearts with its muscular appearance. It marked Mahindra's inaugural global venture and gained popularity in numerous international markets. During its early days, it featured rear-wheel drive, a single-din stereo, roof-mounted AC, and power windows. Surprisingly, even after decades, it remains one of Mahindra's best-selling cars. Despite the launch of the successor, Mahindra Scorpio-N, the first-gen Scorpio is still available as the Scorpio Classic, despite its outdated features and higher price tag. It continues to hold a deeply emotional place in the hearts of its loyal fans.

Toyota Camry: 2002

After the successful launch of the Qualis, Toyota introduced the Camry as its second product in India. Despite Toyota’s global reputation for reliability and long-lasting cars, the Camry didn't perform exceptionally well in India initially. During those years, sedans were very popular in the country, and the Camry, being a premium car, was seen as an affordable choice compared to luxury sedans. Even though it struggled in the beginning, the Camry has stood the test of time and is now known as a highly reliable vehicle, often used as a chauffeur-driven car.

Maruti Suzuki Alto: 2000

The Maruti Alto was introduced as a step up from the 800 and 1000 models, offering a more premium and modern option. Priced similarly to the WagonR, it came with features like power steering, AC, and an improved instrument cluster, setting it apart from the other cars in its segment. Even after being in the market for 21 years, the Alto remains one of Maruti’s best-selling cars. People appreciate its compact size and user-friendly features, making it a popular choice among car buyers.

Hyundai Verna: 2006

The Hyundai Verna has become a beloved choice among sedan enthusiasts. Introduced as the successor to the Accent, the Verna quickly captured hearts with its attractive design and impressive features. It emerged as a strong competitor to the City and has maintained its position over the years. Now, in its fourth iteration, the Verna has successfully secured the top spot in the C-segment sedan category.

Toyota Innova: 2005

Toyota achieved remarkable success with the Qualis, and its legacy continued with the introduction of the Innova as its successor. The Innova proved to be a highly practical and spacious car, a reputation it still maintains today. It holds the title of India's most beloved MPV. The reliability of a Toyota was evident in the Innova, known for its ability to run for thousands of miles, making it a preferred choice not only for families but also for fleet customers. Even in its third iteration, despite its higher price compared to competitors, the Innova continues to enjoy significant success, consistently performing well in the market.

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