Compact hatchbacks have always been and still are the most sold vehicles in India, but over the years, an increasing number of buyers are willing to invest their money into premium hatchbacks. These premium vehicles are mainly targeted to the upper middle-class buyers, offering world-class performance in compact packages. Almost all the top ten passenger car manufacturers have at least one premium hatch in their product portfolio.
Swift is one such hatch, made by the country's largest car maker, Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL). Just as the name suggests, it is also one of the most 'swiftly' selling models for MSIL. In April 2012, 19,484 units of Swift were sold by the company, which was even higher than the Alto. With a 1.2 litre K-Series petrol engine, Swift leads this class in terms of power, generating 86 bhp. This makes the model a tremendous vehicle to drive. In addition to this, it provides a great mileage of 18.6 kmpl. With a 1.3 litre DDIS engine (diesel), this figure goes up to 22.9 kmpl. Interestingly, both the versions are extremely popular choices of Indian buyers.
i20 is another popular hatch, manufactured by Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL), which is one of the few premium hatchbacks that also has an automatic version. In terms of design, i20 is incorporated with Hyundai's famous 'fluidic' design concept, which is clearly visible from the sleek and aggressive look of the vehicle. It comes with a diesel engine that produces a fuel efficiency of 21.9 kmpl and a 1.2 litre Kappa 2 engine that provides a mileage of 18.5 kmpl, as per Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI). Many luxury features, such as reverse parking camera, keyless entry, rain-sensing wipers and electro-chromic mirror with anti-glare function have been provided with this vehicle. It truly sets a benchmark in styling and performance, which are its key credentials for success.
Honda has recently launched two automatic versions of its Brio hatchback, priced at Rs. 5.74 lakhs and Rs. 5.99 lakhs. A five-speed automatic gearbox has been fitted in this vehicle, which is powered by a 1.2 litre petrol engine. The automatic version delivers good acceleration, which makes for zestful driving, whether at low or high rev limits. Power generated by the model is also substantial at 87 bhp, which allows the vehicle to ride easily even at low speeds. A multi-gear selection layout helps it to easily move through chock-a-block city traffic. It also comes with an Eco mode, which glows green when the clutch and the accelerator is being pressed to generate maximum mileage.
Ford India Private Limited has Figo hatchback in its kitty. In 2011, this vehicle was declared as the 'Car of the Year' in Indian market. At a length of 3795 mm, it features a lot of interior space, which can comfortably seat 5 adults. Similar to other competitors, Figo also comes with 1.2 litre petrol and a 1.4 litre diesel engines. However, power available is relatively less than the competitors with 70 bhp from the petrol and 68 bhp from the diesel versions. Despite of this, the engine offers great driveability and the vehicle is easy to manoeuvre, owing to its light steering.
Tata Indica Vista is also on the list, which has come a long way since its inception in 1998 under the banner of Indica. Now it definitely looks more elegant than ever before. In terms of power, there are four different options: Vista Terra with 89 bhp (petrol), Vista Aqua with 64 bhp (petrol), Aura ABS with 74 bhp and Aura Plus with 70 bhp. Interior quality of this model has also greatly improved over the years. As always, Indica remains one of the most spacious hatchbacks in its category.
It is heartening to know the number of choices that are available with Indian customers in terms of premium hatchbacks. More and more individuals have realised that a car is not just to move from point A to point B, but for doing so in style also.
