Upcoming Hatchback Cars in India

Despite the growing popularity of SUVs in India and a number of advancements in the Indian automotive markets, one category of cars has consistently captured the hearts of discerning drivers – hatchbacks. Compact, agile, and tailored to the diverse needs of the Indian roads, hatchbacks have rightly carved a niche for themselves. 

From navigating bustling city streets to embarking on weekend getaways, hatchbacks have become synonymous with versatility, fuel efficiency, and a perfect blend of style and substance. As we eagerly anticipate the arrival of upcoming hatchbacks in India in 2023-24, it's worth delving into the factors that make these vehicles not just a mode of transportation but a lifestyle choice for many.

1. New-Gen Maruti Swift

Expected Launch: Early 2024

Expected Starting Price: ₹6.5-7 Lakh

Recently showcased at the Japan Mobility Show, the new-gen Maruti Swift is currently one of the most talked about upcoming hatchbacks in India under 10 lakh. For starters, the new Maruti Swift will boast a new front fascia which will largely be dominated by a longer nose and fresh LED headlight design along with a new gloss black grille, LED DRLs and fog lamp housing. The side profile too gets a number of updates including a new set of alloy wheels, strong character lines and a new rear door handle which has been moved to a more conventional position, down from the C-Pillar. At the rear, the car remains largely similar to the present iteration, save for a new pair of LED taillights and a new bumper. Likewise, the interiors will offer similar seating and space for the occupants in both rows while the new dashboard layout might remind you of the Maruti Fronx. On the features front, the new Swift is likely to be offered with Maruti Suzuki’s SmartPlay Floating Infotainment system, automatic climate control, wireless charging, HUD, digital instrument console, Push-Button Start/Stop and more. 

Under the hood, the existing 1.2-litre 4-cylinder K12 motor will be replaced by a new 1-2-litre three-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol motor. Internally codenamed the Z12, this new engine is expected to deliver close to 90 bhp but will offer improved torque figures in addition to better fuel efficiency and improved emissions. Just like the present setup, this new engine will be offered with either a 5-speed manual or an AMT gearbox. The brand might also introduce a strong-hybrid powertrain option with the higher-spec versions. Underpinning this new iteration of the Swift is the same HEARTECT platform but as far as reports are to be believed, this platform will get significant updates to improve the dynamics and performance.

Also Read: Best Hatchbacks in India

2. Tata Altroz Racer

Expected Launch: Early 2024

Expected Starting Price: ₹7-8 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

Showcased for the first time at the 2023 Auto Expo, the Tata Altroz Racer is Tata’s response to the growing demand for sporty premium hatchbacks in the Indian market. Despite being a niche product, the Altroz Racer is currently the most talked about upcoming Tata car under 10 lakh in India in 2023-24. As the name suggests, the new Altroz Racer will boast a number of cosmetic updates to give it a sportier and more aggressive road presence. Other than that, the new Altroz Racer will also get a number of new features inside the cabin including an all-new 26.03 cm infotainment screen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a digital instrument console, sunroof, wireless phone charger, ventilated front seats and more.

Other than this, the new Tata Altroz will also get six-airbags as standard part of the package for improved safety. The buyers will be offered with three powertrain options: 1.2-litre Revotron NA Petrol, 1.5-litre Revotorq Turbo Diesel and a new 1.2-litre iTurbo which will deliver close to 120 bhp of maximum power. The brand will also introduce a new 6-speed manual gearbox with the turbo petrol engine. With an expected starting price of ₹7-8 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the Altroz Racer will be one of the most VFM offerings in the market.

Also Read: Best Petrol Hatchback Cars in India

3. Tata Altroz EV

Expected Launch: Mid 2024

Expected Starting Price: ₹11-12 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

Tata Motors is currently the best-selling four-wheeler brand in the electric mobility segment and dominates the market with products like the Tata Nexon and the Tiago EV. With the demand for electric vehicles surging in recent months, the Indian carmaker is said to be working on launching the new Altroz EV for buyers looking for an affordable and cheap-to-run electric hatchback in India. Likely to go on sale somewhere next year, the new Altroz EV will be positioned above the Tiago/Tigor EV and is likely to be priced from ₹11-12 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).

Powering the Altroz EV will be the same Ziptron powertrain that we also see with the lower versions of the Nexon EV. The brand is however yet to share more details about the official specifications of the Altroz EV. It is however expected that the new Altroz EV will boast a real-world range of close to 300 km on a single charge and will support fast charging options in addition to slow AC charging. 

Read More: Best Diesel Hatchback Cars in India

4. VW Polo GTi

Expected Launch: 2024

Expected Starting Price: ₹25-28 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The VW Polo has been one of the most popular names amongst car enthusiasts in India and the brand is likely to soon launch the new Polo GTi somewhere next year. To be brought into the country via the CBU route, this new performance-oriented version of the Polo will be offered with a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine which is capable of delivering a little over 200 bhp. This engine comes mated to a 7-speed DSG gearbox and boasts a 0-100 kmph time of under 7 seconds. 

Based on the iconic MQB A0 platform, the new Polo GTi boasts a commendable driving experience and is well renowned for its agility and stability at higher speeds. The brand will be importing only a limited number of cars in India and is yet to comment on the official launch timeline as it is still evaluating the prospect.

Also Read: 5 Best Automatic Hatchback In India

The Bottom Line

From the highly anticipated new-gen Maruti Swift with its revamped design and enhanced features to the sporty Tata Altroz Racer, promising a dynamic driving experience, the upcoming hatchbacks cater to diverse preferences. Tata Motors continues to lead in electric mobility with the Altroz EV, offering an eco-friendly alternative. Lastly, the VW Polo GTi, known for its performance prowess, is gearing up to make a splash in the enthusiast's market. As we eagerly await these launches, it's evident that hatchbacks remain not just a mode of transport but a lifestyle choice, perfectly balancing practicality and flair on Indian roads.

FAQs

Q. Which is the No 1 hatchback car in India?

The Maruti Suzuki WagonR was the most demanded hatchback in India in October 2023 and the brand sold a total of 22,020 units of the car in one month.

Q. Which is the best selling hatchback in 2023?

The Maruti WagonR and the Maruti Swift are the two best-selling hatchbacks in 2023 in India.

Q. Is MG3 coming to India?

No, the brand is yet to comment on the launch of the MG3 in India