Maruti Celerio - How does it stack up against cars like Volkswagen Polo and Hyundai Grand i10?

Modern day hatchbacks are bolder and smarter than what it was a decade ago, these little monsters a practical choice for our city streets. Option in the hatchback segment has multiplied by a dozen wherein you can pick your choice amid a wider variety. The Maruti Suzuki Celerio is the most awaited hatchback which is due for unveiling at the 2014 Auto Expo event. Moreover, with a recent launch of Grand i10 it is anticipated that sales may move at a more competitive stage.

Maruti Celerio - How does it stack up against cars like Volkswagen Polo and Hyun

The Hyundai Grand i10 has retained its existing line of 1.2 litre Kappa2 petrol engine. The car produces a decent 82 bhp power output. The Grand i10 seems to be a little peppy and jumps from rest in an impressive manner. This car isn't for highway racing, but it’s just perfect for city commute. Gear ratio has been attained with perfection to enable the driver to avoid frequent gear-shifts. Suspension in the Hyundai i10 has been designed to handle potholes at a lower speed, whereas taking on a bump at a higher speed may get slightly rough. Steering is responsive and handles well under all circumstances. Interiors in the i10 hatchback have always been impressive, and the new Grand i10 doesn't disappoint you either. Beige plastic in the lower end of the car gives it a rich feel. Furthermore, the cabin space features ample legroom and storage space. As per sources, the boot space in the Grand i10 is better as compared to Swift hatchback.

Maruti Celerio-How does it stack up against cars like Volkswagen Polo and Hyun

The Polo 1.2 litre is powered by 1198cc engine that generates about 75 bhp at 5400 rpm and delivers about 110Nm of torque at 3750 rpm. The engine has been mated to a five speed gear box. The previous option for 1.6 litre variant has been discontinued by the German car-maker. Volkswagen Polo 1.2 litre features smart headlamps that flows smoothly from the front fenders to merge with slim grill. Tailgate lights look smarter, and features a third brake light mated to its sporty rear spoiler. From the inside, the hatchback gets a dual tone interior makeover. Features like tilting and telescopic adjustment function on power steering, manually adjustable side-view mirrors, front power windows, central locking, body coloured bumpers, tachometer, engine immobilizer, chrome finished door handles on the inside, prismatic rear-view mirror and tinted glasses come as standard across all Polo variant.

Maruti Celerio-How does it stack up against cars like Volkswagen Polo and Hyun

Surprisingly, the Celerio is reported to be 5 percent more efficient than a regular manual version car. Moreover, the absence of clutch pedal makes the car even more interesting and comfortable within the city where you may be stuck for hours in a stop-and-go traffic. Furthermore, the driver gets to shift gears in a fully automatic mode or sequentially. This new hydraulic system is the reason why you get to shift gears without pressing on a clutch!