It's raining big small cars

The old boys Hyundai Getz Suzuki Swift Skoda Fabia Chevrolet U-VA The newcomers Hyundai i20 Suzuki Ritz Waiting in the wings Fiat Grande Punto Honda Jazz Chevrolet Mini Volkswagen Polo Nissan March Toyota Yaris

Despite the economic slowdown, carmakers are going ahead with planned launches—especially in the premium compact segment that has seen a slew of vehicles entering the market over the last couple of months. A few more are ready to launch even as we write.

The Society of Indian Automotive Manufacturers (SIAM), which releases audited sales data, does not have a sub-category for such vehicles as cars are classified by length. Sales of premium compact cars, however, are picking up as consumers demand more features in their small cars. Increasing parking problems have also seen consumers going for smaller cars, but only those with fully-loaded features.

Most cars in this segment come with engines below 1,200cc (to qualify for lower excise) and are priced in the Rs 3.5-5 lakh range. Top-end models of the vehicles almost universally come with safety features, including anti-lock braking (ABS) and airbags. So, in terms of features and kit, there is little to choose between them. The consumer, though, will be spoilt for choice.

—Kushan Mitra