The hatchback segment has been experiencing a decline in sales over the past couple of years, primarily due to customers’ preference for SUVs and high inflation. However, car manufacturers such as Maruti Suzuki, Tata, and Hyundai are still investing in this segment by updating their existing models. Maruti Suzuki is gearing up to introduce the new-generation Swift by April 2024, while Tata will unveil the sportier version of the Altroz premium hatchback. Hyundai Motor India, on the other hand, will provide a mid-life update to the i20 hatchback. Let’s delve into the key details of these upcoming hatchbacks.
Upcoming Hatchbacks In 2024
New-Gen Maruti Swift
The next-generation Maruti Swift will adopt the same design language as the Japan-spec Swift. Significant changes will be made to its body shell, presenting a sharper design than before. The 2024 Maruti Swift will also see an increase in size, being 15mm longer, 40mm narrower, and 30mm taller than its current generation, although its wheelbase will remain unchanged at 2,450mm. Inside, the new Swift will draw inspiration from the Baleno and Fronx, featuring a newly-designed dashboard along with a floating touchscreen, instrument cluster, steering wheel, HVAC controls, and switch gears. It will mark the debut of the brand’s all-new 1.2L petrol engine boosted with mild hybrid tech, promising high mileage and low emissions.
Tata Altroz Racer
The Tata Altroz Racer is one of the much-awaited upcoming new hatchbacks in India. The model was initially previewed at the 2023 Auto Expo and later showcased at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo in January 2024, maintains the same design and styling as the regular Altroz. However, it distinguishes itself with a blacked-out roof and bonnet, twin white racing stripes, black-finished alloy wheels, and Racer badges on the front fenders. Inside, it features a new 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless charging, ventilated front seats, an air purifier, and six airbags. Powering the Tata Altroz Racer is a 1.2L, 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine generating 120bhp and 170Nm of torque.
Hyundai i20 N Line Facelift
The 2024 Hyundai i20 N Line facelift, recently unveiled for global markets, undergoes minimal changes in terms of design and features. It features a slightly revised grille, a tweaked bumper with new cuts and creases integrating fog lamps, and newly-designed 17-inch alloy wheels with a black treatment. The rear end sports a revised bumper with vertical design elements. Inside, the updated i20 N Line boasts an all-black treatment with red contrasting elements on the steering wheel, door pads, AC vents, upholstery stitching, and gear knob. It includes an N Line specific gear selector lever and a three-spoke sporty steering wheel. Under the hood, it retains the same 1.0L turbo petrol engine producing 118bhp and 172Nm of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
