This Is The Only Premium Hatchback You Can Buy With A Diesel Engine In India Now

• News comes after discontinuation of i20 diesel. 
• Segment now dominated by petrol, turbo-petrol and CNG options
• Many segments lower down are now petrol-only. 

With stricter RDE regulations on its way, we are already seeing a number of segments shifting to petrol-only. Most of the lower-end segment, including the compact sedan class, now offers only petrol models as diesel demand dwindles. And now, if you’re considering picking up a diesel-powered premium hatchback, you have no other choice but the Tata Altroz as it remains the only one in its segment to offer a diesel option. 

This news comes after the recent discontinuation of the i20’s diesel variants, which packed a 100PS 1.5-litre oil burner, paired with a six-speed manual. The reason for its discontinuation could probably be the fact that the diesel engine has a lesser number of takers compared to its petrol sibling. The segment has also seen a shift, with most of the models boasting naturally aspirated petrol, turbo-petrol and CNG options now. 

This, though, gives the Altroz a big fat advantage, as buyers looking for a diesel-powered premium hatchback have no other choice but to consider the Tata. It also has enough poke, thanks to the 90PS 1.5-litre diesel engine that comes paired with a five-speed manual. Also, the hatchback is offered with 1.2-litre naturally aspirated and turbo-petrol engines as well. 

The Tata Altroz is currently priced in India from Rs 6.45 lakh onwards. Down the road, the Indian marque will be updating the hatchback with new features and a sportier variant, which you can read about here. It rivals the Maruti Suzuki Baleno, Toyota Glanza, Honda Jazz, and the Hyundai i20.