Hyundai Casper (Upcoming) vs Tata Punch : The newly launched micro-SUV segment in India heats up, with the Hyundai Casper being one of the most anticipated advancements in direct competition with the already hot-selling Tata Punch. Designed for use in the city with all features reminiscent of an SUV body, tiny footprint, and wallet-friendly pricing, these cars are some of the best in terms of their market positioning. While Punch is already entrenched within the Indian market, Casper knocks at the door with the trust-value of the Hyundai brand in mind and a feature-rich approach. Let us check them out.
Design-wise, the Hyundai Casper has a quirky, futuristic styling. Compliment failed to recognize the round LED headlights, boxy proportions, and distinctly different detailing thus giving it a bold identity that will certainly appeal to younger consumers. The Tata Punch stands in stark contrast with its muscular, tough, and rugged construction inspired by Tata’s larger SUVs,-would it be Harrier or Nexon. It appears on the outside all but why for which punch popularity could be attributed in India-mostly associated with the strong by big honcho. So, while the Punch feels more rugged, the Casper looks modern and funky.
On the inside, Hyundai is expected to draw magic from its treasure troves of premium features for the Casper. The company is known for giving high-tech interiors even in budget cars; even though Casper is expected to carry high tech features like a big touchscreen, connected car features, premium materials, and advanced safety tech, Tata Punch already continues to show off a good interior layout with a spacious cabin containing good-quality plastics, which already boasts a 7-inch infotainment system and features such as cruise control and automatic climate control in higher trims. However, Hyundai’s derivation of high premium touches could make Casper slightly advantageous.
When all is said and done, the Tata Punch is actually equipped with the 1.2L petrol engine with manual/AMT options. The fact is reliable and user-friendly city-wise, and it does not belong to the strongest engines in this segment. Expect the same engine, 1.2L petrol, and probably a smaller 1.0L turbo version to give a sportier edge to higher variants of the Hyundai Casper. A layout touted for such smooth driving dynamics, Hyundai would have that edge for Casper to be fun-to-drive.
Safety is another significant area in which buyers pay attention. Tata Punch earned a very reliable five-star rating from the Global NCAP, making it one of the safest cars in its class. That said, the Casper is still up for tests, but generally, Hyundai equips their cars with multiple airbags, ABS, ESC, and advanced driver aids. Thus, it should also be competitive.
This being said, the Tata Punch is a proven and safe choice, having rugged looks and practicality, while the Hyundai Casper is most probably going to appeal to buyers in search for something new, stylish, and feature-rich. The real battle would commence once the Casper pricing from Hyundai is revealed as it decides whether the new contender dethrones the Punch regarding the micro-SUV market.