The importance of hatchbacks can never be undermined in context of the Indian car market. For a long time now, hatchback segment has been dominating the market in terms of sales and is most preferred by customers as well. There are several reasons why hatchbacks are considered ideal by a majority of Indian consumers. In the first place, hatchbacks are suitable for driving in cities, where traffic conditions are congested. In addition, they are affordable and fuel efficient, which are major factors to lure buyers in India. Statistics and figures suggest that top Indian car makers like Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai draw maximum revenue from sales of their hatchbacks, such as Alto 800, WagonR, Eon and i10. As a result of their popularity, hatchbacks from different brands are often compared by analysts and experts. Three models that have performed well in India due to different reasons are Honda Brio, Maruti Suzuki Swift and Ford Figo.
No company dominates the hatchback segment more than Maruti Suzuki, the country's largest passenger car maker. Swift is one model that can be considered as one of the most stylish and loved in the segment. Since its launch, it has taken the market by storm due to its design, performance and efficiency. This hatchback comes in two engine options, one petrol and one diesel. Diesel version of Swift runs on a 1.3-litre DDiS engine that produces an output of around 73 bhp along with peak torque of 190 Nm. Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI) fuel distribution system enhances the efficiency levels of the engine. On the other hand, petrol version of Swift runs on a 1.2-litre powertrain that delivers peak power of around 85 bhp and top torque of 114 Nm.
Ford Figo, one of the best models from the American auto giant, is a stylish vehicle that boasts of spacious interiors, steering mounted audio control, best-in-class air conditioning and a superior engine. Petrol version of Ford Figo is powered by the 1.2-litre engine that delivers an output of 69 bhp and highest torque of 102 Nm. On the other hand, diesel variant of Figo model runs on a 1.4-litre engine that can generate maximum power of 67 bhp and top torque of 160 Nm.
Honda has been on a roll in the Indian car market since the launch of Amaze compact sedan. In an attempt to redevelop itself as a brand, the Japanese car maker introduced the i-DTEC diesel technology, which has received acclaim across the globe. Brio platform has been highly successful for the brand. Brio hatchback has been appreciated for its design, interiors and high class performance. This model from Honda runs on a four-cylinder 16-valve 1.2-litre engine that delivers an output of around 86 bhp and torque level of up to 109 Nm.
As far as power levels are concerned, Swift hatchback trumps models from Honda and Ford. In addition, the trustworthiness of Maruti Suzuki and its brand value add to the viability of Swift. However, both Honda and Ford hatchbacks have their own merits, which have helped them to earn a good reputation in the market.
