New cars for 2016: Upcoming Hatchbacks

Also read: A complete guide to new car launches in India

This year, the hatchback segment is expected to see a number of launches, from mainstream models like the Suzuki Ignis to more premium offerings such as the VW Polo GTI and the new Mini Clubman.

Featured here are the hatchbacks – new and facelifted – expected to head to our shores soon.

MARUTI IGNIS

Here’s a simple formula: hatchback size, a beefy, jacked-up stance, and easy-on-the-wallet price tag. Sounds pretty interesting, right? The Renault Kwid did it first and the Datsun RediGo will soon. So, of course, the king of the small cars, Maruti, has something planned too. The Suzuki Ignis makes for an interesting compact crossover, heavily borrowing styling cues from its concept, the IK-4. Based on a new platform, the Ignis, upon its launch in India, will likely be powered by Maruti’s familiar 1.2-litre petrol and 1.3-litre diesel powerplants.

Coming: End 2016
Est Price: Rs 4-5 lakh
Engine(s): 1.2 P, 1.3 D

MINI NEW CLUBMAN

These days, Minis are getting less and less ‘mini’, and the new Clubman is the biggest Mini yet. It’s the second generation of Mini’s estate car, and this time, it has six doors - the boot is accessed via two conventional hinged doors. Engine options overseas include 135bhp 1.5-litre and 190bhp 2.0-litre petrol motors (the latter for the Clubman S), along with a 1.5-litre four-cylinder diesel motor. As ever with a Mini, the Clubman is high on style and retro charm, but it’s also the most practical Mini ever.

Est price: Rs 35-38 lakh
Engine(s): 1.5 P, 2.0 P, 1.5 D
Rivals: Mercedes-Benz GLA

VOLKSWAGEN POLO GTI

India is finally warming to hot hatches, and the biggest punch will come from Volkswagen next year. With 189bhp from its 1.8-litre TSI engine, the Polo GTI is capable of doing 0-100kph in under seven seconds, thanks in part to a quick seven-speed DSG gearbox. It won’t come cheap though, with prices expected north of Rs 17 lakh. Not a car you’d buy with your sensible hat on then, but for true-blue enthusiasts, it’ll be worth it.

Est price: Rs 17 lakh
Engine(s): 1.8 P
Rivals: Abarth Punto

Also read: New cars for 2016: Sedans

New cars for 2016: SUVs and MPVs