Amid frequently changing trends and rapid shift in preferences, if there is one thing that has remained constant in the Indian automotive market, it is the undying love for hatchbacks. Often referred as the ‘evergreen vehicles’, hatchbacks in India have never gone out of fashion ever since its inception. The ‘styling’, however has transformed over the decades. One of the prominent reasons for the unparalleled popularity of hatchbacks is its frugal character that somehow, keeps it commercially alive. While there are still many top-selling models available for retail, we bring you top 4 upcoming hatchbacks that are set for launch in 2018.
Also Read: Top 5 Hot Deals In Hatchbacks In March
New Hyundai Santro
Hyundai’s much-loved car, Santro is in the process of resurrection. The model is expected to launch in India sometime this year and buzz has it that the new Santro will replace the ageing Eon in Hyundai India’s line-up. It will be based on i10’s platform and will propel on the retuned 1,086cc engine, which was used in the i10 and Santro Xing. Hyundai is also likely to offer an AMT gearbox on it along with optional CNG and LPG kits.
Next-gen Maruti WagonR
With almost two decades in the Indian market, Maruti’s tall boy hatch, WagonR is up for a generation leap sometime next year. Despite its boxy looks, WagonR has been able to give new entrants a good run for their money. As for the new-gen Maruti WagonR, it is expected to receive cosmetic changes majorly, while there is yet no clarity on the changes on the inside. The mechanicals are also likely to be retained, implying the same engine with a manual and AMT option. Maruti Suzuki India could launch the new Maruti WagonR by late 2018.
New Maruti Alto
Buzz has it that Maruti Suzuki India is developing a replacement for its long-standing budget hatchback, Alto. Visually, the hatchback is likely to get rid of the current mundane design and could take cues from the sportier Ignis. It could also receive dimensional changes to carve out more space inside the cabin. While in terms of features, expect it to receive an infotainment system and other safety bits such as anti-lock-braking system, etc in tandem with the new Bharat Stage safety norms. There is yet no official confirmation on its launch, though media reports indicate, it could break covers sometime this year. As for the pricing, expect it to be pegged between Rs 2.5 lakh to Rs 4.2 lakh.
Honda Jazz Facelift
Honda Jazz is all set to receive its first mid-life update after its re-launch in India in 2015. Despite umpteen changes, the model could not live up to Honda’s expectations, hence a facelift seemed suitable to give it a lease of life. Among the changes, expect it to receive cosmetic tweaks, additional features and a new infotainment system along the lines of the one that is offered on the City sedan and WR-V crossover. The hatchback will retain mechanicals which means it will continue to offer the same petrol and diesel engines that power the current model.