Gone but Not Forgotten: 5 Diesel Hatchbacks That Once Ruled Indian Roads
Diesel hatchbacks were once the kings of India’s urban streets, offering excellent fuel efficiency, high torque, and practicality for city commutes and long drives alike. However, the arrival of BS6 emission standards, the growing popularity of SUVs, and the rise of electric vehicles have pushed these models out of production. Once household names, they now gather dust in forgotten parking lots. Here’s a look at five diesel hatchbacks that once ruled the roads.
1. Maruti Suzuki Ritz Diesel
Launched in 2009, the Maruti Ritz Diesel stood out with its tall-boy design and spacious interiors, making it ideal for urban families. It was powered by a Fiat-made 1.3-liter engine, producing 75 hp and 190 Nm of torque, with a fuel efficiency of 23-25 km/l. Affordable servicing and a large boot made it a favorite among taxi operators in smaller towns. However, as the Swift gained popularity, Ritz sales declined, and it was discontinued in 2016
2. Tata Indica eV2 Diesel
Introduced in 1998, the Tata Indica eV2 Diesel was a pioneer among India’s diesel hatchbacks. Its 1.4-liter engine generated 140 Nm of torque, delivering 23-25 km/l. Its spacious cabin and high ground clearance made it ideal for both city traffic and rural roads. The model sold over 1 million units before being discontinued in 2018
3. Maruti Suzuki Swift Diesel
The iconic Swift Diesel (2007–2020) became a household name, thanks to its 1.3-liter DDiS engine, producing 75 hp and 190 Nm torque, and mileage of 25-28 km/l. Its nimble handling made it a joy in congested traffic. The diesel variant was discontinued in 2020, as stricter emission norms made production unsustainable.
4. Hyundai i20 CRDi
The Hyundai Elite i20 diesel variants dominated the premium hatchback segment before 2020. Buyers could choose between a 1.4-liter 90 hp or 1.5-liter 100 hp CRDi engine, generating 220 Nm of torque and delivering 22-24 km/l. Features like a sunroof, touchscreen infotainment, and robust build quality made it highly desirable. BS6 regulations, however, limited it to petrol engines only, ending the diesel-era in this segment.
5. Chevrolet Beat Diesel
The 2011 Beat Diesel featured a 1.0-liter engine producing 57 hp and 150 Nm, offering lively performance in a compact package and 25 km/l mileage. Its handling and design made it popular among city drivers. Low sales and Chevrolet’s exit from India in 2017 sealed its fate.
Conclusion
Once loved for their torque, mileage, and practicality, these diesel hatchbacks are now relics of a bygone era. While they hold nostalgic value for car enthusiasts, their discontinuation highlights the industry’s shift towards cleaner emissions, electric mobility, and changing consumer preferences.