2017 Hyundai Elite i20 has been introduced in India at Rs 5.36 lakh. The new model year update for the B+ segment hatch gets a dual-tone body paint scheme and orange garnishes inside the cabin. The seven-inch infotainment system is scrounged from the updated Grand i10. With the launch of this new model year, Hyundai will now be competing with other premium hatchbacks such as Honda Jazz, Volkswagen Polo and Maruti Suzuki Baleno. Here is a competition check to see how the updated Elite i20 fares.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno
The arch nemesis to the Elite i20 has always been the Maruti Suzuki Baleno. The Nexa product is a tad bigger than the Elite i20, but the Hyundai has a longer wheelbase. The Elite i20 is available in two petrol and a diesel powertrain and so is the Baleno. However, apart from the Baleno RS, the Elite i20 triumphs in terms of power figures. Being premium hatchback products, both the cars are filled to the brim with features and creature comforts. Both cars have dual front airbags as a standard offering, and additionally, Baleno offers ABS as a standard fitment across the range.
Honda Jazz
Now in its third generation, the all-new Honda Jazz is available with both petrol and diesel engines. Incidentally, the top-of-the-line Jazz is most expensive in the segment. The diesel engine in the Jazz is also the most powerful unit in the segment. The Jazz also offers a CVT transmission in the automatic variant. The Jazz comes with a unique magic seat arrangement making way for a flexible cabin space. On the other hand, the Elite i20 offers six airbags in the top-trim (highest in the segment) and comes loaded with features like six-speaker stereo, rear air-con, cooled glovebox and projector headlamps to name a few.
Volkswagen Polo
Dimensionally, the Polo measures less compared to the plum Elite i20. The Polo offers a DSG gearbox in this segment and comes with dual front-airbags and ABS as a standard offering across all the variants. The Polo tinkered with the idea of hot hatches with the Polo GT series powered by a potent TSI engine followed by a powerful TDI variant. The Polo makes a mark for itself with its superior build quality, handling and performance with German heritage. However, the Elite i20 is spacious, practical and easier on the pocket compared to the Volkswagen. Both the B+ hatches come packed with all the bells and whistles expected of cars in this segment.
