Premium Hatch competitors

20 Aug 2009

1). Hyundai i20

The Korean giant banked on the reputation built by its small hatch, the i10, to create new respect and set the stage for the larger i20. With its very European design, great fit and finish and oodles of space on the inside, the i20 had us all stumped by redefining the parameters as to what a hatchback could do. While the 1.2-litre Kappa engine proved to be somewhat insufficient for the large car, it still proved to be a great car for the large urban family. Now with the recently launched diesel engine option, we can only expect great things from the i20.

2). Skoda Fabia

The Fabia was one of the most eagerly awaited cars of its time, but its sedan-style pricing and restricted engine options throttled the cars potential to no extent. Skoda has gone on the defensive now with the Fabia, with the even smaller petrol and three-pot diesel engine surviving. The great handler could have been the choice for enthusiasts all over the country, too bad Skoda lost the plot a bit. Here's hoping the car gets a new boost and finally achieves the potential it promised.

3). Chevrolet SRV

What could be called the originator of the premium hatchback segment in India, but the car was a little ahead of its times when it was launched. It still remains one of the best looking cars in India and almost tops the segment in terms of performance. With its non-competitive and elitist pricing coupled with a lack of enthusiasm from GM marketing, the car with great potential remains at the back of the premium hatchback pack.