Playing in the small car segment of Indian auto industry has proved worthwhile for several car makers as the margins are huge despite tough competition. Almost every auto maker has introduced one or more models in the small car segment since they consider it a lucrative section of the domestic market. Indian buyers prefer hatchbacks as these are suitable for families and are economical. In India, five hatchbacks, namely Hyundai i20, Volkswagen Polo, Maruti Swift, Nissan Micra and Chevrolet Beat, are considered as the best options currently available in the market.
Heading the league, Hyundai i20 is one of the most trusted cars in terms of safety features. The model boasts of appealing exteriors which are characterised by lustrous design and make it a head turner on the roads. Besides, it is offered with petrol and diesel engine options, along with a host of remarkable interior and safety features. The petrol version of i20 delivers a mileage of 14 kmpl, whereas its diesel edition offers 18 kmpl. At a starting price of Rs. 4.82 lacs, the car has class-leading features like LED illumination, automatic temperature controller with clean air cluster ioniser that provides fresh and clean air.
Next in the line is Volkswagen Polo, which has been bestowed with advanced German technology. Polo has a contemporary and elegant design with an appealing front fascia, though the spacious interiors appeal to the buyers the most. The model would certainly be ranked the highest among the most stylish and comfortable hatchbacks in the price range of Rs. 4.5 to 7.5 lacs. Moreover, it does not compromise in terms of power and fuel efficiency either, thus emerging as the ideal family car.
Joining the bandwagon at the third place, the new edition of Maruti Suzuki Swift, offered in petrol and diesel models, is equipped with an efficient powertrain that delivers brilliant mileage. Swift is one of the most coveted models in the Indian market and delivers mileage of 18-23 kmpl. With a price tag of Rs. 4.44 and 6.76 lacs, the car is loaded with advanced features that lure the buyers to the showrooms, which has resulted in sales of over 700 units per day till February 2012.
Nissan Micra is also a good option in this segment, since the car boasts of a host of comfort and convenience features in cabin and refreshing design language at the exteriors. Besides, it is offered with an option of two efficient engines, namely a 1.2 litre petrol engine and a 1.5 litre diesel motor. Reportedly, Micra’s engine is counted among the most powerful motors, which can even outpace few entry-level sedans, including Maruti Suzuki Swift DZire. The model flaunts some of the technically advanced safety features, including dual front airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and remote central locking,
The next member in this list is Chevrolet Beat diesel, which is one of the most cost-effective hatchbacks in the country. It is assimilated with a 1.0 litre engine, which has a displacement of 936 cc. The performance-oriented powertrain of this car delivers excellent mileage and, thus, the car is called the ‘most fuel efficient diesel car in country.’ It delivers fuel economy of 25.44 kmpl, which is unmatched in this segment. Besides, the company also offers petrol as well as LPG versions of Beat in India.
With a combination of world-class interior features, a sound safety package, elegant looks and excellent mileage, these cars rule the hatchback segment of the Indian auto market.
