Maruti Suzuki has just updated the Baleno, giving its popular premium hatchback a new engine, more features and Level 2 ADAS. Starting at around Rs 6.10 lakh, it now faces the Hyundai i20 and Tata Altroz in a segment where buyers are looking for a mix of efficiency, space, features and safety.
| Specification | Maruti Baleno | Hyundai i20 | Tata Altroz |
| Engine | 1.2L, 3-cyl petrol | 1.2L, 4-cyl petrol | 1.2L, 3-cyl petrol |
| Power | 82 bhp | 82 bhp | 87 bhp |
| Torque | 112.4 Nm | 114.7 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Automatic | AMT | IVT | AMT/DCT |
| Claimed mileage* | 23.8 kmpl | ~19–20 kmpl | ~19–24 kmpl |
| Boot space | 318 litres | 311 litres | 345 litres |
| Length | 3,990mm | 3,995mm | 3,990mm |
*Varies by variant and transmission
The Baleno has the strongest efficiency argument of the three. Its new 1.2-litre Z-Series petrol engine produces 82 bhp and 112.4 Nm, while the car continues to offer a factory CNG option. The facelift also brings a more comprehensive feature list, including Level 2 ADAS, ventilated front seats and a 360-degree camera.
The i20, meanwhile, remains the more premium-feeling option. Its 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine makes similar power but has a smoother character, while the IVT automatic is arguably better suited to relaxed city driving than an AMT. It also has the longest wheelbase of the three at 2,580 mm, which helps cabin space.
Then there is the Tata Altroz, which takes the safety route. Its 1.2-litre petrol engine makes 87 bhp and 115 Nm, and the hatchback offers both AMT and DCT automatic options. It also has the largest boot here at 345 litres. The Altroz is available with petrol and CNG powertrains, making it one of the more versatile choices in this group.
The differences become even clearer when you look at how these cars are likely to be used. The Baleno is the most rational all-rounder, particularly for buyers who cover high annual mileage and want low running costs. Its new Z-Series engine, CNG option and claimed 23.8 kmpl petrol efficiency give it a strong practical advantage.
The i20, on the other hand, makes more sense for someone who places greater importance on cabin feel, refinement and a smoother automatic, while the Altroz has the edge for buyers who want the widest powertrain choice and a larger boot.
There is also a clear difference in the way each manufacturer has approached the premium hatchback formula. Maruti has gone heavily after technology and efficiency with the new Baleno, including Level 2 ADAS and ventilated seats.
Hyundai continues to focus on a more premium cabin experience and the convenience of its IVT, while Tata’s Altroz combines a spacious boot with petrol, CNG and diesel choices. That means there isn’t really one universal winner here, the Baleno looks like the strongest value proposition on paper, but the i20 and Altroz still make compelling cases depending on what a buyer values most.
Price
The new Baleno starts at approximately Rs 6.10 lakh, while the i20 and Altroz have broadly similar entry points, depending on the latest variant and pricing structure.
| Model | Starting price |
| Maruti Baleno | Rs. 6.10 lakh |
| Hyundai i20 | Rs. 5.99 lakh |
| Tata Altroz | Rs. 6.30 lakh |
If mileage and features are your priorities, the new Baleno looks hard to ignore. The i20 makes more sense if refinement and a good automatic are higher on your list, while the Altroz remains the choice for buyers who want a solid, safety-focused package with multiple powertrain options. With the new Baleno raising the feature bar, this three-way battle has suddenly become interesting again.
