Tata Car vs Hyundai Car: Which Is better in Cars!
The Indian automobile market is highly competitive, with Tata Motors and Hyundai being two of the most prominent players. Both brands have a strong presence in the country, offering a wide range of vehicles catering to different segments. While Tata Motors is an Indian automaker known for its robust and affordable cars, Hyundai is a South Korean giant recognized for its stylish designs and advanced features. In this article, we will compare these two brands across various parameters, including design, performance, safety, features, pricing, and after-sales service, to help you make an informed decision.
1. Brand Overview
Tata Motors is one of India’s oldest and most trusted automobile manufacturers. The company has evolved significantly over the years, shifting from producing utilitarian vehicles to offering feature-rich, modern cars like the Nexon, Harrier, and Safari. Tata has also been a pioneer in electric vehicles (EVs), with models like the Nexon EV and Tigor EV gaining popularity.
On the other hand, Hyundai entered the Indian market in 1996 and quickly became a favorite due to its sleek designs, premium interiors, and reliable engines. Models like the Hyundai Creta, i20, and Verna have set benchmarks in their respective segments. Hyundai is known for its cutting-edge technology and strong focus on customer satisfaction.
2. Design and Styling
When it comes to design, both brands have distinct philosophies.
- Tata Cars have undergone a massive transformation in recent years, adopting the Impact Design 2.0 philosophy. Models like the Nexon, Harrier, and Safari boast bold, muscular exteriors with sharp lines and aggressive grilles. The interiors are also more premium now, with features like floating touchscreens, ambient lighting, and premium upholstery.
- Hyundai Cars, on the other hand, are known for their fluidic design language, which emphasizes sleek curves and aerodynamic shapes. The Hyundai Creta and i20 are perfect examples of this approach, featuring LED DRLs, cascading grilles, and futuristic styling. Hyundai’s interiors are often more upmarket, with soft-touch materials and ergonomic layouts.
Verdict: If you prefer bold and rugged styling, Tata cars are a great choice. However, if you like sleek and modern aesthetics, Hyundai has an edge.
3. Performance and Engine Options
Both brands offer a variety of petrol, diesel, and electric powertrains, but their performance characteristics differ.
- Tata Motors focuses on robust and fuel-efficient engines. The 1.2L turbo petrol (in Nexon and Altroz) and 1.5L diesel (in Harrier and Safari) engines deliver strong performance. Tata also offers CNG variants in models like the Tiago and Tigor, making them cost-effective.
- Hyundai provides refined and peppy engines, such as the 1.0L turbo petrol (in i20 and Venue) and the 1.5L diesel (in Creta and Verna). Hyundai’s engines are known for their smoothness and low NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) levels, making them ideal for city driving.
Electric Vehicles (EVs):
- Tata leads the EV segment with the Nexon EV and Tigor EV, offering long-range and affordable pricing.
- Hyundai’s Kona Electric is a premium EV but is priced higher than Tata’s offerings.
Verdict: Hyundai has an advantage in refinement and smoothness, while Tata offers better diesel engines and affordable EVs.
4. Safety Features
Safety is a crucial factor, and both brands have made significant strides in this area.
- Tata Motors has a strong reputation for safety, with models like the Nexon and Altroz receiving a 5-star Global NCAP rating. Features like multiple airbags, ESP, hill-hold assist, and reinforced body structures are standard in many Tata cars.
- Hyundai has also improved its safety standards, with the new Creta and i20 scoring well in crash tests. However, some entry-level models still lag behind Tata in terms of structural rigidity.
Verdict: Tata cars are generally safer, especially in entry-level and compact SUV segments.
5. Features and Technology
Both brands offer modern infotainment systems, connected car tech, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) in their premium models.
- Tata Cars come with iRA connected car technology, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, 360-degree camera, and ventilated seats (in Harrier/Safari).
- Hyundai offers Bluelink connected car tech, Bose sound systems, digital instrument clusters, and ADAS features (in Tucson and Verna).
Verdict: Hyundai has a slight edge in premium features and tech, but Tata is catching up quickly.
6. Pricing and Affordability
- Tata Cars are generally more affordable, with models like the Tiago and Punch offering great value for money.
- Hyundai Cars are slightly more expensive but justify the cost with better fit-and-finish and brand resale value.
Verdict: If budget-friendliness is a priority, Tata is better. If you want higher resale value, Hyundai wins.
7. After-Sales Service and Reliability
- Hyundai has one of the best after-sales networks in India, with low maintenance costs and high service quality.
- Tata has improved its service network but still faces inconsistencies in some regions.
Verdict: Hyundai has a more reliable service network, but Tata is improving.
Final Conclusion
Choosing between Tata and Hyundai depends on your priorities:
- Pick Tata if you want safety, ruggedness, affordable EVs, and budget-friendly options.
- Choose Hyundai if you prefer sleek designs, refined engines, premium features, and better resale value.
Both brands have their strengths, and the best choice ultimately depends on your budget, driving needs, and personal preferences.