Those searching for a spacious and comfortable urban runabout normally opt for a luxury hatchback with an automatic transmission. Here are our current top picks for the best automatic hatchbacks under Rs 10 lakh, with over seven choices to choose from in the market.
- Maruti Baleno/Toyota Glanza
The Maruti Baleno – and its badge-engineered cousin, the Toyota Glanza – automatic models are driven by the older K12M engine, but they are smooth and refined to drive, thanks in part to the CVT gearbox. Furthermore, both luxury hatchbacks are roomy, have well-designed interiors, and all of the expected features, making them a very well-rounded package. The price range for the Baleno is smaller, and the Glanza comes with a longer standard warranty.
The Hyundai i20 is the newest compact hatchback on the block, and it dazzles with its design and feature set. The new i20 rides well and comes with a variety of powertrains and automatic transmissions. There’s a CVT, a dual-clutch automatic, and an integrated manual transmission, so you’ll have plenty of options. However, i20s with a dual-clutch gearbox are more expensive, costing more than Rs 10 lakh.
- Hyundai Grand i10 Nios
The Hyundai Grand i10 Nios has a well-finished and upmarket interior, as well as being well-equipped in true Hyundai design. While the automatic gearbox on offer is an AMT – and therefore not as smooth as a CVT or torque converter auto – it gets the job done and with little impact on the petrol or diesel engine’s fuel efficiency. In reality, the Nios is currently India’s only hatchback with a diesel-automatic option priced under Rs 10 lakh.
- Maruti Swift
The Maruti Swift has received a recent update that replaces the older 83hp 1.2-liter K series engine with the more powerful and reliable 1.2-liter DualJet motor. According to ARAI’s ratings, the Swift AMT is the third most fuel-efficient petrol car on the market in India (after the Dzire AMT and the Baleno mild-hybrid). There are some cosmetic changes and feature improvements, but they aren’t game-changing.
- Volkswagen Polo
Although the Volkswagen Polo is a dated vehicle, its cabin quality is excellent, and the feature updates are sufficient to keep it on this list. The new 1.0-litre TSI engine, combined with the new torque converter gearbox, is what saves it. It provides a strong and smooth driving experience that complements the chassis’ sharp handling.
