Hyundai i20 vs Tata Altroz

The hatchback segment in India is the most popular one and has been flooded with cars from a host of car brands for years. Out of these, the Hyundai i20 and Tata Altroz are two fine hatchbacks that one can buy today. The pair bring a lot of sales for the respective brands while competing against each other, offering a great mix of style, features and performance.

In this detailed run-down, we evaluate the two hatches in terms of size, exterior styling, interior features, powertrain and safety technologies. 

Hyundai i20 vs Tata Altroz: Dimensions

The overall dimensions of the Korean hatchback are more than the Tata Altroz, height being an exception. Its length of 3,995 mm is slightly over the latter by 5 mm at 3,990 mm. In face width, the i20 and Altroz differ more by 20 mm. The Wheelbase of the i20 goes even beyond by 79 mm as the Altroz’s wheelbase measures 2,501 mm. On the height front, the i20 is shorter by 18 millimetres.

Exterior Style

The Hyundai i20 follows the ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ design philosophy, giving it a modern and sporty appearance. Its front grille holds the presence and is easily noticeable and LED DRLs at the front and back add to the elegance. The side profile with a sloping roofline inspires a coupe-like design in a small form factor.

For the Altorz, Tata Motors has stayed true to its ‘Impact 2.0’ design and it translates to a muscular and upright posture. It gets blacked-out elements apart from the usual LED and DRL combination. The new split LED tail lamps add to the appeal.

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Interior & Comfort

Inside, the i20 presents a stylish cabin layout with great attention to detail. There’s a 10.25-inch touchscreen display with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ambient lighting, digital speedometer and steering-mounted controls. Additionally, there’s a sunroof, wireless charging, keyless entry, push-button start/stop button and cruise control. However, the knee room at the back may be inadequate for tall passengers. 

Altroz’s cabin is focused on space and comfort. It may not feel as upmarket as its rival. It does feature a few interesting bits. Flat-bottom steering wheel with audio controls, semi-digital speedometer and a seven-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The sunroof in this one is voice-enabled and also adds wireless charging, an air purifier, a 3.5 mm audio jack with eight speakers from Harman, automatic climate control and rear AC vents. We expect the Altroz to get an update sometime soon.

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Powertrain & Performance

Hyundai i20 has been offered with the same 1.2-litre Kappa petrol engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission. This setup produces a healthy 87 horsepower and 115 Newton metres of torque. In its latest update, the Idle Stop and Go (ISG) was also added to boost fuel economy. The South Korean automobile manufacturer also offers the i20 N Line with a turbocharged 1.0-litre petrol engine that is capable of producing 118.4 hp and 172 Nm of torque with a stiffer suspension setup to support spirited driving. However, there is no diesel on offer.

With the Altroz come two engine options - a 1.2-litre petrol motor and a 1.5-litre diesel motor. While the petrol car makes 86.8 hp and 113 Nm, diesel has an output of 88.7 hp and 200 Nm. It also gets a CNG variant with dual-cylinder iCNG technology. Tata will also launch a quicker 1.2-litre turbo petrol Altroz Racer soon.

Safety & Features

The i20 has a long list of safety features. For starters, six airbags have been made standard across Hyundai’s lineup. Electronic Stability Control, Hill Assist Control, Vehicle Stability Management, three-point seatbelts and seatbelt reminder for all passengers are to name a few. 

Tata Altroz boasts a five-star NCAP rating with features like ABS, EBD, brake sway control, corner stability control and six airbags. 

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