Hyundai i10 Nameplate Crosses Three Million Sales, Here’s A Quick Look At Its History, Relevance And Significance In India!

Hyundai’s most popular hatchback on our roads, the i10, currently called the Grand i10 Nios, has crossed the three million sales milestone across its generations. 2 million units have been sold in India, while 1.3 million units have been exported to foreign markets. Launched first in 2007, the i10 moniker has been in India for around 18 years now. The Korean auto manufacturer has revealed that the Grand i10 Nios is most popular in these three states: Gujarat, Maharashtra and Haryana.

Let’s take a quick look at the i10’s history in India, and what makes it a successful hatchback in India: 

The i10’s History 

First launched in 2007, the i10 was quick to attract buyers who wanted to upgrade to a slightly premium hatchback from the likes of the Santro and Wagon R. It was introduced with a quirky design and a premium interior with a decent list of features. 

Interestingly, the first-generation i10 even got a sunroof later on, a feature which is still not offered on rivals such as the Maruti Swift. Its overall value for money appeal was the key reason for its initial success. 

In 2013, the second-generation model was launched. It was called the Grand i10, being bigger and more premium in every sense. It came with a diesel engine option and some convenience features like an infotainment display and rear AC vents. It was sold alongside the first-generation i10 before the older one was phased out. 

The Grand i10 added more room on the inside, almost making it the ideal hatchback for Indian families who want a roomy interior and a decent set of features for the price point. 

In 2019, the current generation model was launched, referred to as the Grand i10 Nios. This generation of the i10 took the value proposition to the next level, introducing features such as wireless phone charging, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a premium sound system on higher variants. The major upgrade came in the safety department! Features such as 6 airbags (as standard), TPMS, a reverse parking camera with sensors and standard ABS with EBD are offered with the current i10. 

Grand i10 Nios Powertrain

Here’s a detailed look at the Grand i10 Nios’ powertrain specs: 

What Makes It A Successful Hatchback?

The i10 nameplate has not just been successful for a few years and phased out, but it has maintained its popularity over the years. Its well-rounded package offered at a good price is one of the key factors for its success. Here’s a quick look at the reasons for pointers: 

• The i10 has always been well-loaded with features, with some of the segment-first amenities also being offered. 

• Hyundai has always managed to update the i10 before it gets outdated or less relevant. 

• Multiple engine options, including both petrol and CNG options. 

• Convenience of AMT with the petrol option.

• Compact footprint with a spacious interior, ideal for families up to 4 members. 

• Easy to drive in traffic conditions, and comfortable soft suspension tuned for Indian roads.

• Comes with many safety features right from the base variant onwards. 

• Decent pricing, offers value for the amount you pay 

ZigSays

The i10 has been among the most crucial vehicles for Hyundai in India. What stands out is how it has been upgraded from time to time, satisfying the needs of modern customers. We wonder what’s next for the i10, possibly a completely new design? Or a much more premium interior? Well, you never know! That being said, one thing is for sure: Hyundai will be quick to update the hatchback once it starts showing its age. 

The i10 has proved to be an integral part of the Indian automobile industry, truly making its mark and presence felt in the hatchback space. We are sure that the i10 might have been bought either by your family or, your friends or your relatives. So if you have any interesting stories with the i10, let us know in the comments section.