There is no denying the intensity of rivalry that exists between companies in the Indian car market. Auto makers, consistently, try to outperform each other by launching more models and thereby, increasing sales figures. However, there are some rivalries in the Indian automobile industry that supersede all others, be it in terms of revenues or brand value.
The rivalry that tops the list in passenger car segment is the one between Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai. This competition has been going on for a long time now and both firms have been pretty aggressive in their approaches towards the market. There are a number of similarities between Hyundai and Maruti Suzuki. Firstly, both are subsidiaries of companies based in Southeast Asia, which is one reason why they have an amazing understanding of market conditions. Secondly, both companies generate high revenues from their respective models in the hatchback segment. Lastly, Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai have tremendous brand values in the country and are trusted by consumers. Due to all these reasons, many analysts have tried to compare models from the two brands.
Both auto makers, Hyundai and Maruti Suzuki, have a terrific presence in the hatchback segment. Models produced by these manufacturers are some of the most successful in terms of sales, popularity and critical acclaim. Swift is an iconic hatchback that has been an excellent performer for Maruti Suzuki since its launch. This model has been appreciated by critics for its bold looks, sporty design and powerful performance. It comes in two engine options, which include one diesel and one petrol. While the petrol version of this car runs on a 1.2-litre engine, diesel variant is fitted with a 1.3-litre powertrain. The K Series engine powered petrol version of this car delivers an output of around 85 bhp and peak torque of 114 Nm. On the other hand, Swift diesel has the capability of generating a power level of 73 bhp, approximately.
i10 has done for Hyundai what Swift did for Maruti Suzuki in context of the Indian car market. Considerably attractive, affordable and efficient would be the apt words to describe Hyundai i10. Due to its overall performance, this model won the award for 'Car of the Year' 2008 from a number of media firms, such as BS Motoring, Overdrive and CNBC TV 18 Autocar. Featuring a compact design, this car comes with an aggressive look, clear wraparound headlamps, rear combination lamps and an elegant rear bumper. This car is available to customers in two engine options, both being petrol. One variant of Hyundai i10 runs on iRDE2 1.1-litre SOHC powertrain that delivers an output of around 67 bhp. The other version is equipped with 1.2-litre unit capable of producing peak power of approximately 78 bhp. If one was to compare these cars in terms of output and engine options then Swift is clearly ahead of i10. However, the hatchback from Hyundai boasts of a version with automatic transmission, something that is not present in its Maruti Suzuki rival.
If one talks purely in terms of affordability and fuel-economy then there are not many models that can match the prowess of Maruti Suzuki Alto 800. This car, launched as the eventual replacement of the legendary M800, has not disappointed anyone, neither customers nor the manufacturer. This model, in a lot of ways, can be described as the ideal 'car for the masses', due to its suitability for a majority of consumers in India. Alto 800, featuring a unique wavefront design, is compact, efficient and affordable. It runs on a 796 cc engine that is controlled by a 32-bit computer and produces maximum power of around 46 bhp. The highlight of this car is its mileage of 22.74 kmpl, which can be considered as quite impressive.
In order to increase its market share and compete with Maruti Suzuki, the South Korean auto maker launched Grand i10 in India. Slotted between current generation i10 and i20 models, this car has taken the market by storm, generating positive reviews from critics and customers. Notably, this is the cheapest diesel offering of Hyundai in the Indian market. Due to its incredible success, many experts have compared Grand i10 to Alto 800. Even though there is no comparison between these models in terms of mechanical configuration and features, their respective performances make them rivals. And if one was to choose a winner in this aspect then the pendulum swings in the favour of Maruti Suzuki Alto 800.
Maruti Suzuki, clearly, is far ahead of its fiercest rival as far as the hatchback segment is concerned. However, when it comes to sedans, Hyundai enjoys a slight edge over its counterpart due to its diverse portfolio. Maruti Suzuki Swift DZire is one of the brand's best selling models. However, when it comes to mid-sized and executive sedan segments, the South Korean auto maker clearly has an edge. Two models from Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai that compete with each other in this segment are SX4 and Verna, respectively.
Hyundai Verna features the highly acclaimed fluidic design characterised by a sleek sporty profile and curvy body. Interiors of this car have been appreciated for their premium feel and technological sophistication. This model comes in three engine versions, which are powered by 1.4-litre (petrol), 1.6-litre (petrol) and 1.6-litre (diesel) units. On the other hand, SX4 is bold looking sedan that has been a consistent performer for a long time. However, in recent times, its sales have dropped down significantly due to tough competition from the likes of Verna and Honda City.
