Toyota Glanza vs Maruti Suzuki Baleno vs Hyundai i20 vs Tata Altroz comparison

It’s been some time since we had a superb old style group comparability of premium hatchbacks, proper? Factor is, there hasn’t been a lot exercise within the section for fairly a while. 2022, nonetheless, has put the highlight again on what’s the hottest non-SUV section, what with the arrival of the brand new Maruti Suzuki Baleno and its twin from companion Toyota, the brand new Glanza. Over the previous few months, the Tata Altroz has additionally received the much-awaited choice of an computerized gearbox, and even the Hyundai i20 line-up has seen a gentle reshuffle. Lacking right here is the Volkswagen Polo that’s simply bowed out after 12 years and we’ve handed up on the competent Honda Jazz too, which is in its run-out part.

The 4 contenders will probably be judged on our normal lengthy checklist of parameters, however comfort, consolation, really feel good issue and worth will get due significance.

Glanza vs Baleno vs i20 vs Altroz: design, styling

Provided that that is the primary time we’re seeing the quartet in a single body, we’ll begin with the matter of design and styling. Constructed to evolve to the ‘small automobile’ specs for excise advantages, every of those hatchbacks measures just below 4m in size. And there isn’t all that a lot distinction between them in top and width both. Nevertheless, there are very completely different approaches to styling seen right here.

Glanza and Baleno are one and the identical, however there may be extra visible differentiation with this gen.

The brand new Baleno is arguably probably the most conservative in look. There’s a transparent visible hyperlink to the last-gen Baleno and plenty of may not even register it as a brand new mannequin at first look. However a more in-depth look will inform you a lot has modified. All physique panels are new and, normally, there’s a chunkier, extra strong look to the automobile. The extensive, chrome-lined grille, three-dot LED Daytime Operating Lights and LED signature on the tail-lights give the Baleno sufficient flash too.

What’s good is that the brand new Glanza isn’t merely a Baleno with a Toyota badge slapped on to it, as was the case the final time round. Sure, the essential design is identical, however the Toyota sports activities a redone entrance finish, which helps give it extra of an identification of its personal. The Glanza’s slimmer grille and sportier entrance bumper (replete with fake carbon-fibre detailing!) give it a younger look, and plenty of on the workplace truly most popular the Glanza’s styling to the Baleno’s.

The place the i20 grabs your consideration with extroverted styling, the Altroz is classically good-looking.

You’ll get stronger reactions to the i20’s look. It’s probably the most radical in its styling, with its giant grille and drooping nostril, a number of cuts and creases on the sheet steel, and Z-shaped LED signatures on the tail-lights. The i20 appears probably the most distinct and plenty of will like/dislike it for simply that. The Tata Altroz? To my eyes, it’s a classically good-looking automobile with simply the suitable proportions. The big swept-back headlights and edgy tail make it straightforward to determine, and it actually can carry off that tipped ahead stance with elan.

Glanza vs Baleno vs i20 vs Altroz: inside 

It’s inside that the brand new Baleno actually appears and looks like a brand new Baleno. The expertise begins with a deeper sound on door shut. The layered dashboard is fashionable and Maruti has even been adventurous with a navy blue end for the decrease plastics; although the color solely comes by way of on vivid days.

Baleno’s layered sprint is fashionable and total high quality is a step up on previous mannequin. 

The big free-standing 9.0-inch touchscreen is in line with the occasions, and although the dials are analogue, the color MID display screen is properly executed. High quality has additionally taken a soar up, with a extra premium really feel to the touch factors just like the steering, entrance centre armrest and local weather management buttons.

Excessive effectivity numbers on MID make for comfortable viewing.

The sculpted entrance seats add to the look and are supportive too, although not everybody will take to the overly tender cushioning.

Glanza similar to Baleno inside, save for color theme. Toyota’s beige-on-black look straightforward to understand as extra upmarket.

The Glanza’s inside is similar to the Baleno in each means, save for the color theme. And curiously sufficient, it’s that beige on black theme which may make some favor the Glanza over the Baleno. The Glanza inside’s lighter colors not solely seem a bit extra premium, but in addition improve the sense of area inside.

Low sprint cowl aids visibility and in addition offers i20 cabin an ethereal really feel. All-black theme is drab and high quality isn’t Hyundai’s greatest.

In absolute phrases, nonetheless, it’s the i20 that has the roomiest cabin. It’s the widest of the hatchbacks and the low-set sprint not solely helps the ethereal feeling inside but in addition permits the very best view out.

Digital instrument cluster provides vibrancy to i20 inside.

Different highlights embrace the massive 10.25-inch touchscreen that sits in clear sight with out being obtrusive, and the digital instrument cluster (we aren’t followers of the counterclockwise tacho) additionally provides some vibrancy to the all-black inside. Sadly, high quality isn’t the very best we’ve seen from Hyundai, with fairly a number of scratchy plastics inside. Additionally, the i20’s entrance seats aren’t the biggest or most supportive.

Altroz’s doorways distinctive in 90-degree opening; aids entry.

Due to doorways that open 90 levels, stepping into an Altroz is that little bit simpler than the opposite vehicles right here. And that thud on door shut makes for a reassuring welcome be aware too; the Tata feels the hardest in its construct. Plastic high quality is of a typically good normal (panel match could possibly be higher at locations), there’s a slick use of various textures and hues, and the leatherette upholstery, distinctive to the Tata, solely additional ups the atmosphere inside.

Colors and textures are used to nice impact in Altroz. Materials high quality is nice however panel match is inconsistent at locations.

What stands out, or maybe not sufficient, is the free-standing 7.0-inch touchscreen that’s the smallest right here. The part-digital devices with squared-out dials aren’t best to seek advice from both. Entrance seat consolation is nice however drivers will miss telescopic steering modify, a characteristic supplied on the others. The thick A-pillars additionally hamper visibility at crossroads.

Glanza vs Baleno vs i20 vs Altroz: tech and options

We’ve thought-about these vehicles of their highest trim ranges and every will get you a complete lot of goodies. Keyless entry, push-button begin, auto headlights, entrance centre armrests, cruise management, touchscreens with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, linked tech and auto local weather management are a number of the options you’d discover on all.

Prime-spec i20’s sunroof is a attract its personal proper.

The totally loaded Hyundai i20 Asta(O) is the priciest automobile right here nevertheless it does maintain attract, being the one one to supply a sunroof. Of the opposite issues, the i20’s slick 10.25-inch touchscreen is the biggest, it’s received the crispest rear digicam and is the one one to get a wi-fi cellphone charger. The i20’s Bose sound system additionally provides most depth to your music.

Glanza (and Baleno) head-up show straightforward to get used to.

The highest-spec Baleno Alpha and Glanza V are similar in what they provide. Head-up show that tasks data like velocity, RPM, blower settings and AC temperature onto a fold-out display screen in your line of sight is a cool inclusion.

Baleno (and Glanza) 360-degree digicam is beneficial.

It’s not a characteristic you’d essentially need, however one that’s straightforward to get used to. Additionally included is a useful (and segment-first) 360-degree digicam, although the decision is simply alright. The Baleno and Glanza’s 9.0-inch touchscreens are good to make use of, and auto-dimming inside mirrors are additionally a premium inclusion. The duo do properly sufficient for themselves with an Arkamys sound module that gives good adjustability.

The Tata Altroz XZ+ is on the again foot when speaking wow options. Its touchscreen is the smallest, the interface is laggy and the reverse digicam is comparatively low-res too. The Tata’s four-speaker, four-tweeter audio system does ship punchy sound although.

Altroz touchscreen is smallest and trails in slickness too.

The place the Altroz has bragging rights is within the space of security courtesy of a World NCAP 5-star score for grownup occupant safety. The i20 was rated three stars whereas the Baleno and Glanza are but to be put to the check. Apparently, the place the totally loaded i20, Baleno and Glanza get six airbags, the Altroz makes do with simply two. Issues will equalise later this yr when the six airbag norm comes into impact. Over and above regulatory necessities of ABS and rear parking sensors, all vehicles get ESC and ISOFIX child-seat mounts.

Glanza vs Baleno vs i20 vs Altroz: inside area and storage

These vehicles are giant as hatchbacks go, and every provides ample kneeroom on the again. Rear AC vents, adjustable headrests for the outboard seats and a few type of charging additionally make it straightforward to get comfortable behind these vehicles. However there are variations.

i20 the roomiest hatchback right here. Rear seat additionally most accommodating for 3.

It’s the i20 that’s the roomiest, with probably the most knee-, head- and shoulder-room. Three abreast seating is well the comfiest within the i20 and the massive home windows additionally lend an ethereal feeling inside.

Glanza (and Baleno) roomy, however seat is greatest for 2. Centre armrest is missed.

Tall passengers will discover the Baleno and Glanza nearly ample on rear headroom. A rear centre armrest (supplied within the i20 and Altroz) is missed too and once more, the overly tender seat cushioning isn’t excellent on lengthy journeys.

Altroz’s leatherette upholstered seats look wealthy. Area is down on rivals.

The Altroz has its hits and misses in a well-cushioned seat however a backrest that’s a contact too upright. Headroom can also be ample however no extra. You’ll be content material with how a lot baggage you may slot in to those vehicles’ boots. Quantity-wise, the Altroz tops the charts with 345 litres to the Baleno and Glanza’s 318 litres and i20’s 311 litres.

Ample bootspace supplied. (Clockwise from prime left: Toyota Glanza, Maruti Baleno, Hyundai i20 and Tata Altroz)

All fashions provide the choice to fold down the rear seat backrests to make more room, although solely the Baleno and Glanza provide the pliability of 60:40 cut up seats.

Do be aware, loading heavy suitcases into the Baleno and Glanza takes most effort attributable to their excessive loading lips and low boot flooring.

Glanza vs Baleno vs i20 vs Altroz: engines, efficiency

In consideration, listed here are the automated gearbox variations of the 4 contenders. To provide an summary of the engines and gearboxes, the Baleno and Glanza characteristic a 1.2-litre, four-cylinder petrol mated to a 5-speed automated handbook transmission or AMT; the Tata Altroz pairs a 1.2-litre, three-cylinder petrol to a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission, whereas the i20 featured right here contains a 1.2-litre, four-cylinder petrol and CVT (repeatedly variable transmission) combo. Notably, the i20 can also be out there with a extra highly effective 1.0-litre, three-cylinder, turbo-petrol engine and 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox, however that model’s a complete lot pricier too.

The Glanza is Toyota’s first AMT-equipped automobile in India.

Anybody aware of the last-gen Baleno auto and/or Glanza auto and their clean CVTs will probably be in for some disappointment within the newest fashions. And that’s largely right down to the shift to an AMT association. Certain, mild inputs are catered to admirably with clean sufficient gearshifts however press a bit tougher on the accelerator pedal and also you’ll typically discover the system doesn’t fairly get what you need of it. The gearbox tends to fumble and the pause between shifts and ensuing ‘head nod’ takes away from the expertise. In truth, we discovered ourselves taking on gearshifts by way of handbook mode extra typically than we’d have appreciated. AMTs might need come a great distance however this check alone has established there’s nonetheless an enormous hole to the extra refined transmissions on the market. When it comes to engine efficiency too, a number of the zing of the last-gen fashions is lacking. That stated, Suzuki’s new 90hp and 113Nm K12N engine permits straightforward progress and scores properly on refinement as properly.

When it comes to engine efficiency, some zing from the previous-gen Glanza, Baleno fashions lacking.

Whereas the gearbox is a sore level within the Baleno and Glanza, it’s the engine that’s the weak hyperlink within the Altroz bundle. Efficiency is affordable for the city grind however unimpressive in sooner situations, mirrored in its comparatively sluggish kickdown acceleration occasions.

The construct of energy is flat and you actually need to work the 86hp and 113Nm engine to get probably the most out of it. Bother is, the engine will get noisy while you achieve this and the three-cylinder thrum fills up the cabin. For its half, the dual-clutch transmission is clean and conscious of accelerator inputs, even when it’s not as fast on the draw (in handbook mode too) as a Volkswagen DSG unit. We additionally discovered the Altroz to be best in crawling site visitors with a well-calibrated creep mode.

The i20 and Altroz ship real-world metropolis gas financial system within the 9-12kpl band.

The shock of the check was the i20 CVT. The place the last-gen i20 CVT was boring to drive, the brand new i20 CVT looks like an achieved metropolis automobile. The 88hp and 114Nm engine is clean and quiet, and efficiency is nice. It’s not a fast automobile per se, however you’ll respect the prepared entry to energy. The CVT (IVT in Hyundai converse) is properly in tune with energy necessities and that ‘rubberband’ impact (revs rising sooner than highway velocity) CVTs are infamous for is basically restricted to pedal-to-the-metal driving solely. It’s cheap enjoyable to work by way of the six steps of the gearbox in handbook mode too. The i20 CVT isn’t solely higher to drive than its rivals right here however, as a metropolis automobile, additionally feels nicer than the pricier i20 Turbo-DCT.

Efficiency is one factor. How do these vehicles ship on the all-important matter of gas financial system? It’s the Baleno AMT and Glanza AMT that rating huge on this space, with an official ARAI-rated financial system of twenty-two.94kpl. Actual-world metropolis financial system is within the 12-14kpl band, and will be maximised with switchable auto cease/begin that’s a part of the bundle on the duo. The i20 IVT (19.6kpl ARAI) and Altroz DCA (18.18kpl ARAI) aren’t fairly as environment friendly, delivering real-world metropolis financial system within the 9-12kpl band.

Glanza vs Baleno vs i20 vs Altroz: journey and dealing with

As a baseline, every of those vehicles provide good driving consolation, with straightforward to twirl steerings and good journey high quality.

There’s an enchancment in steering really feel within the Glanza and Baleno.

The Baleno and Glanza really feel the cushiest at low speeds and smoothen out dangerous roads higher than the others do. There’s an enchancment in steering really feel too, (versus the final gen vehicles) with a stronger return to centre motion. Excessive velocity manners are respectable as properly, although frequent freeway goers will discover probably the most appropriate match within the Tata Altroz.

The Baleno and Glanza really feel the cushiest at low speeds.

The Tata feels probably the most surefooted at excessive speeds, dealing with is eager and the slick steering is the nicest too. That powerful construct additionally subconsciously provides to confidence ranges. In slower settings, the comparatively agency set Altroz can’t filter out the bumps (or highway noise) in addition to the others, however when the highway deteriorates solely, it’s the Tata that, as soon as once more, shines with a rugged facet that the others don’t have.

The Tata Altroz feels probably the most surefooted at excessive speeds.

The i20 is nearer to the Baleno and Glanza in its city-biased manners, with a suspension that rounds off the bumps properly. The i20 makes for an ready freeway automobile as properly, exhibiting good stability and tidy, if unexciting, dealing with.

The Hyundai i20 makes for an ready freeway automobile as properly, exhibiting good stability.

Glanza vs Baleno vs i20 vs Altroz: worth

Earlier than we give our decide, it’s prudent to speak costs. The Baleno AMT (out there in three trims) has the bottom beginning worth of Rs 7.83 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), whereas the range-topping Alpha trim featured right here is available in at Rs 9.71 lakh. The Toyota Glanza AMT is marginally pricier (Rs 7.93 lakh- 9.90 lakh) but in addition packs in an extended 3 yr/1,00,000km guarantee, versus the Baleno’s 2 yr/40,000km normal guarantee.

Tata Altroz DCA (out there in three trims) costs begin at Rs 8.29 lakh and prime off at Rs 9.79 lakh, with all-black Darkish variations commanding a further Rs 20,000. You’ll discover three choices for clutch pedal-free consolation within the i20 line-up, with clever handbook transmission (iMT), CVT (aka IVT) and dual-clutch transmissions (DCT) on provide. The i20 IVT in focus right here is obtainable in two variants, with the Sportz trim priced at Rs 8.95 lakh and the fully-loaded Asta(O), the costliest automobile, at Rs 10.56 lakh. So, which one ought to it’s?

The twin-clutch transmission has added ease of use to the Altroz’s well-established checklist of strengths that embrace a tricky construct, assured manners, practicality and, after all, that putting design. In case you are buying inside the Altroz vary alone, it’s the DCA that we’d advocate. Nevertheless, as a premium hatchback, the Altroz nonetheless falls quick on account of its insipid petrol engine and the dearth of wow options.

Maruti’s Baleno and Toyota’s Glanza have wider enchantment. Their lengthy checklist of options will resonate with new-age patrons and the duo additionally deal with the age-old concern of ‘kitna deti hai?’ with class-best gas financial system numbers. Additionally they construct on the practicality of their predecessors with enhanced high quality throughout. The spoiler right here is the AMT gearbox that’s simply not becoming in a automobile of this class or worth level. In truth, you may simply favor the handbook variations to those AMTs. As for the query of Baleno or Glanza? Each vehicles are basically the identical, and your resolution ought to hinge on styling choice and even proximity to a seller/service centre.

As for the i20 IVT, top-spec variations are costly by class requirements, however for a lot of options like a sunroof and Bose sound system make it definitely worth the stretch. What additionally makes your cash really feel properly spent is that the i20’s received the very best engine-gearbox combo and provides probably the most polished drive.

That the i20 can also be the roomiest automobile solely helps its case. The i20 is premium in worth but in addition most premium in expertise, and that’s why it’s our decide.

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