The hatchback segment in cars is witnessing one of the most keenly fought contests among carmakers, with a multitude of launches in the last couple of months, customers are clearly spoilt for choice. Beginning from the Auto Expo where cars like Ford Figo, Chevrolet Beat were launched and these joined the ranks of Hyundai i10, Maruti’s Swift, Ritz and others. After these three launches, it was Maruti’s chance to showcase its face-lifted WagonR. And the war is far from over, as reports indicate that Nissan is all set to join the tussle with its Micra ready to roll into the market and Toyota’s Etios should be out soon too.
This segment that is a notch over entry level cars is buzzing with activity as international auto manufacturers have thrown their hat in the ring with cars that are stylish, loaded with features and they come at a competitive price too. And experts say the reason for this is the burgeoning Indian middle-class and the purchasing power of young executives. Auto manufacturers are eyeing this cream, says, Tutu Dhawan, auto expert. “It is the most lucrative segment, hence there are so many players targeting it. All these recently launched products are really good and Maruti deserves the credit for holding strong in the segment all these years despite competition from all corners,” he adds.
The robust mills, peppy torque, space and economy offered by all these cars are impressive enough for young executives and those looking to upgrade from small cars. But where do they stand against the economy segment? Gaurav Gulati, auto enthusiast, opines, “As far as this segment is concerned, I still feel companies haven’t got their pricing right. It’s good for young executives with a good salary, but for the common man this might seem like an upgrade from the small car. All these newcomers are definitely peppy, smart cars in terms of ratio between the engine and the body and make a statement.”
So, in such a keen contest where a little can go far, what can be the decider between the segment topper and the runners-up? Experts suggest the one with a better network of service centers and after sales service will have an advantage over newcomers. Dhawan suggests, “Having just one or two service stations isn’t good enough. The product could be good, but the consumer will definitely have a reservation to poor after sale service. People will prefer a Maruti or a Hyundai over Nissan. Chevrolet Beat is a great overall package and GM’s assurance of 3-year after-sale service surely evokes confidence.”
Randhir Kumar, software engineer, answers, “In the new launches I feel it’s tough ask between Ford Figo and Chevrolet Beat. The Beat offers a lot of goodies in its lower priced version too. Figo comes in a diesel variant, but at a slightly higher premium.”