Tech Meets Affordability: Cars Under 20 Lakh with Heads-up Displays
The automotive world is rapidly evolving, and with advancements in technology, features that were once exclusive to luxury cars are now becoming accessible in more affordable models. One such feature is the heads-up display, which was once a rarity but is now available in several cars priced under Rs 20 lakh in India. In this blog, we’ll explore what a heads-up display is and take a look at the cars in this price range that offer this convenient feature.
Understanding the Heads-up Display
A heads-up display, often abbreviated as HUD, is a technology that projects critical information onto a transparent screen, typically on the driver’s side of the dashboard. This screen appears to float in the driver’s line of sight, allowing them to access essential data without diverting their attention from the road ahead. The information displayed can vary but often includes vehicle speed, gear position (in automatic models), and other relevant data.
Maruti Baleno: Bringing HUD to the Masses
In early 2022, Maruti Baleno broke new ground by becoming the first car under Rs 10 lakh to offer a heads-up display. This feature is exclusively available in the top-of-the-line Alpha trim and provides critical information such as vehicle speed, gear position (applicable to AMT variants), and the tachometer readout (RPM). With a starting price of Rs 9.33 lakh, the Maruti Baleno Alpha delivers premium features at an affordable cost.
Maruti Fronx: Sharing Excellence
Leveraging the success of the Maruti Baleno, the automaker introduced the Maruti Fronx, a sub-4m crossover SUV, in early 2023. This model inherits many features from its hatchback sibling, including the coveted heads-up display. As with the Baleno, this convenience feature is reserved for the top-spec Alpha trim. Starting at Rs 11.47 lakh, the Maruti Fronx Alpha offers a stylish and tech-savvy choice.
Maruti Brezza: Tech-Loaded and HUD-Equipped
The second-generation Maruti Brezza, launched in mid-2022, received a significant tech upgrade, including the addition of a heads-up display on its fully loaded ZXi+ variants. This HUD offers information such as the gear position indicator, cruise control details, and a digital speedometer. With a starting price of Rs 12.48 lakh for the ZXi+ trim, the Maruti Brezza combines tech-savviness with affordability.
Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder: Hybrids and Heads-up Display
The Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder shares powertrains and features with the Maruti Grand Vitara, including a heads-up display. However, this feature is exclusively available in the top two hybrid trims, G and V. With a price starting at Rs 18.49 lakh, the Urban Cruiser Hyryder blends hybrid technology with modern convenience.
Maruti Grand Vitara: The Best of Maruti
The Grand Vitara, reintroduced by Maruti in mid-2022, is one of the best-equipped cars in the Maruti lineup. It features a detailed heads-up display that provides information related to the SUV’s battery and navigation. This advanced HUD is exclusively available in the strong-hybrid variants, Zeta+ and Alpha+. The Maruti Grand Vitara Hybrid is priced at Rs 18.29 lakh, making it an excellent choice for those seeking advanced features.
In conclusion, the inclusion of heads-up displays in cars under Rs 20 lakh is a testament to the ever-evolving automotive landscape. What was once a luxury feature is now accessible to a more extensive range of customers, enhancing both safety and convenience on the road. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more exciting features to become standard in affordable cars, providing Indian consumers with more options and a brighter automotive future.
