New hatchbacks to be launched in 2016

Big cars are for highways. For the ones who would be prodding around traffic signals and potholes, the hatchbacks are ideal. They park smart, are easy on the fuel gauge and comfortable on a weekend trip as well. We find out hatchbacks that are going to be launched in the remaining part of 2016 so that you know what choices you have.

Renault Kwid 1.0-litre/AMT

The Renault Kwid has been doing exceedingly well for the French car maker. Priced at the sub-compact hatchback rate, the Kwid is not a sub-compact and looks more like a crossover. At the Auto Expo 2016, Renault showcased two more versions of the Kwid, one with the 1.0-litre petrol engine and the other with an automated manual transmission and are expected to be launched by the end of 2016.

Tata Tiago AMT

Automatic car sales are gaining momentum and hence the gearbox which was a hallmark of expensive cars before, has trickled down to the entry-level hatchbacks as well. The Tata Tiago has furthered the Indian conglomerate’s campaign to reposition itself as an aspirational brand with their new Horizon Next theme of design. The Tiago is slated to get an AMT this year and we hope it is for both petrol and diesel variants.

Maruti Suzuki Baleno RS

Hatchbacks are versatile. While they can be super frugal for your daily commute, some of them do have the prowess to blast down the highway. Hot hatches, as the latter are called, are now a thing that started with the Polo GT. Maruti is planning to bring in the Baleno RS which will get a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine. Expected to belt out around 100 horses, the Baleno RS will be the first Maruti to get a turbo-petrol.

Volkswagen Polo GTi

This one is strictly for the enthusiasts. The GTi badge has had many of us raving over the years with their power packed performance and after the GT, VW is bringing in the Polo GTi this year. It will be a three-door hatch, only the second of its kind in India after the Maruti Zen Carbon/Steel. The Polo GTi engine develops a whopping 190bhp of power making it the fastest hatchback to land on Indian roads.