4 New Hatchbacks Launching Soon: While the demand for SUVs is surging in the Indian car market, the hatchback segment is far from dead. Small hatchbacks remain an excellent choice, particularly for first-time car buyers. Recognising this demand, several new hatchback models are set to hit the market soon. From the Toyota Glanza Facelift and the new Hyundai i20 to the Baleno CNG AMT, these cars are expected to offer new features and powertrain options.
Toyota Glanza Facelift
Following the Maruti Baleno Facelift, the Toyota Glanza is also expected to receive similar updates. Since the Glanza and Baleno are closely related, Toyota’s premium hatchback is likely to feature similar cosmetic and functional enhancements.
The new Glanza Facelift is expected to sport a revised front end and offer features such as Level 2 ADAS, ventilated seats, a 360-degree camera, a Head-Up Display (HUD), and a 9-inch touchscreen. Safety features like six airbags are also likely to be included.
The engine is expected to be the new 1.2-litre Z12E-series three-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine. It may be offered with both manual and AMT gearbox options. If Toyota introduces it with enhanced features and modern technology, it could become a compelling choice for premium hatchback buyers.
All-New Hyundai i20
The Hyundai i20 is one of the most popular premium hatchbacks in the Indian market; its sporty exterior and premium-looking cabin have long attracted buyers. Hyundai has now revealed the new fourth-generation i20 in Brazil, and it is expected to launch in India by 2027.
The cabin is also expected to see significant changes. It is likely to feature dual 12.3-inch screens, a new steering wheel, connected-car technology, wireless charging, and Level 2 ADAS. Additionally, the centre console will feature vertically placed climate-control buttons. Engine options are expected to carry over the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol and 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol engines. A diesel engine is not expected to return.
All-New Hyundai Grand i10 Nios
Hyundai’s compact hatchback, the Grand i10 Nios, is also set to receive a new-generation update soon. The company has confirmed that the new-generation Grand i10 Nios will launch next year. While technical details remain unrevealed, the new car is believed to be built on a new platform.
The new Grand i10 Nios is expected to feature significant exterior changes. The cabin is also likely to be modernised with new features. It may come equipped with features such as automatic climate control, a larger infotainment screen, a new driver display, an electric sunroof, ventilated seats, and cruise control.
In terms of powertrain, the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine is likely to be retained. This engine could be offered with both manual and AMT gearbox options. A CNG option is also expected; it remains to be seen whether the company will offer an automatic gearbox alongside the CNG option.
Maruti Baleno CNG AMT
Maruti Suzuki is working on a Baleno CNG AMT model. Currently, the Baleno CNG is available only with a manual gearbox. Adding an AMT gearbox in the upcoming model would let buyers enjoy the convenience of automatic driving with the low running costs of CNG. This combination could prove particularly beneficial in busy cities like Delhi-NCR. The Baleno CNG AMT is expected to launch next year. If priced competitively, it could become an excellent option for buyers.