Which One Should You Buy: Premium Hatchback Or Compact SUV?

Though Indian consumers always had an eye for SUVs, in recent years SUVs have contributed more to the Indian automobile industry than ever before.

In recent years, the sub-4m Compact SUV segment and premium hatchback segment cars in India have locked horns and choosing between both can be very confusing. To help you choose the right vehicle, we have divided this article into five different segments.

1. Design

Though design can be subjective, it is clear that more people prefer the SUV body style. Moreover, the SUV body style ensures slightly better ground clearance and headroom in the vehicle.

However, the premium hatchback silhouette remains far more proportionate compared to any compact SUV.

So, at the end of the day choosing between a premium hatchback and a compact SUV boils down to an individual's preference.

2. Features

Though the number of standard features on offer can vary depending on the manufacturer, in general, the standard features on premium hatchbacks slightly exceed the standard features on compact SUVs. This is especially evident in basic variants of the premium hatchbacks and compact SUVs.

That being said, if you are an urbanite on a tighter budget and do not plan to add aftermarket accessories, it is better to go for a premium hatchback than a compact SUV.

3. Safety & Handling

In recent years, more people in India have started to give importance to the safety aspect of a car than ever before.

That being said, most of the compact SUVs sold in India are underpinned by monocoque chassis like any hatchback sold in the country. That being said, the hatchbacks can offer better handling and stability thanks to their lower centre of gravity and less weight.

So, a premium hatchback has better driving dynamics, so one can take evasive manoeuvres with relative ease to avoid a crash.

4. Performance & Efficiency

Since most automobile manufacturers offer a similar set of powertrain options for their premium hatchbacks and compact SUVs, the performance in the premium hatchbacks will be marginally better due to their lower kerb weight and better aerodynamics.

5. Price

Thanks to the recent trend, the compact SUVs are positioned a smidge above the premium hatchbacks in India. Moreover, the top-end variants of the compact SUVs are generally priced higher.

That being said, it is easier on the pocket to go for a premium hatchback than a compact SUV.

Thoughts About Premium Hatchback & Compact SUV

It is clear that a premium hatchback offers a lot more for the given price, apart from that it also offers better driving dynamics, cheaper running cost and marginally better performance.

However, compact SUVs generally have better resale value in the market, thanks to its better appeal in the market.