Maruti Suzuki Baleno vs Toyota Glanza vs Tata Altroz: A Comparison of Their Entry-level Variants for Budget-conscious Buyers
What are some of the best budget cars, or value for money cars in India? Let’s look at the premium hatchbacks Maruti Suzuki Baleno, Toyota Glanza, and Tata Altroz, to see what attracts budget-conscious buyers to them.
In this article, we will discuss
- What a budget-conscious buyer looks for in a car
- Maruti Suzuki Baleno vs Toyota Glanza vs Tata Altroz – a comprehensive analysis of their entry-level variants, features, affordability, and fuel efficiency
- How to pick the right car for you
The entry-level variants of these cars are among affordable car options in the premium hatchback segment in India. But which of these is the best budget premium hatchback? Read on.
Also read: 10 DC Design cars & how they look in the REAL world: Maruti Swift to Mahindra XUV500
What a Budget-conscious buyer looks for in a car
A budget-conscious buyer should look for these in a car:
- Affordability – a car should be affordable, and have low maintenance costs
- Fuel efficiency – The car shouldn’t guzzle fuel
- Safety features – Essential safety features are a must in a car
- Brand perception – Is the brand of the car known for its wide service network, after sales service, etc.
- Resale value – The car should fetch good resale rates
For the budget-conscious buyer, cost is the main concern. However, this doesn’t mean compromising on essential features. They prioritize safety, durability, and fuel efficiency.
The overall cost of ownership, including maintenance and fuel consumption, also plays a significant role. Moreover, basic conveniences and performance features like power steering, power windows, and efficient mileage are essential.
Furthermore, with increasing traffic congestion and the need for parking, compact size and driver assistance features like parking sensors become increasingly crucial.
Why Maruti Suzuki Baleno, Toyota Glanza, and Tata Altroz are Popular
Maruti Suzuki Baleno, Toyota Glanza, and Tata Altroz have gained popularity among budget-conscious buyers for several reasons. All three cars offer a fine balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and safety.
The manufacturers have a trusted reputation for delivering quality at affordable prices. Their cars’ compact design makes them suitable for city driving, while the efficient engines ensure long-term savings on fuel.
With these vehicles, there’s a perception of low maintenance costs and strong resale value, which appeals to budget buyers. Furthermore, the cars are equipped with essential features, ensuring that affordability doesn’t mean a compromise on basic comforts.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno, Toyota Glanza, and Tata Altroz Entry-level Variant
For Toyota Glanza, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 28 August 2023 |
|---|---|
| E | ₹660,000 |
For Maruti Suzuki Baleno, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 28 August 2023 |
|---|---|
| Sigma | ₹661,000 |
For Tata Altroz, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 28 August 2023 |
|---|---|
| XE | ₹660,000 |
Toyota Glanza E
how the Glanza compares with Hyundai i20 and Maruti Baleno
Maruti Suzuki Baleno Sigma
Baleno with Hyundai i20
Tata Altroz XE
how the Altroz compares with Maruti Swift
Our Pick for the Best variant among Maruti Suzuki Baleno, Toyota Glanza, and Tata Altroz for Budget-conscious buyers
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno Sigma emerges as the top pick for the budget-conscious buyer. Priced at ₹661,000, it fits within your budget and ensures safety with ABS and 2 airbags. Its city mileage of 20 kmpl and highway mileage of 22.35 kmpl promise fuel efficiency.
Essential conveniences like power steering and power windows front and back add to the driving experience. The body-colored bumpers enhance the car’s aesthetic appeal, and the rear parking sensors provide the much-needed driver assistance in tight parking spaces.
While the Baleno Sigma and Toyota Glanza E are closely matched in terms of features and price, the reputation of Maruti for affordable maintenance and extensive service network gives Baleno an edge.
The 3 Entry-level Variants Ranked
- Maruti Suzuki Baleno Sigma
- Toyota Glanza E
- Tata Altroz XE
| Attributes | Baleno Sigma | Glanza E | Altroz XE |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Airbags (number) | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| City Mileage (kmpl) | 20 | 17.35 | 19.33 |
| Engine – Fuel type | Petrol | Petrol | Petrol |
| Highway Mileage (kmpl) | 22.35 | 22.35 | – |
| Power Steering | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Power Windows – Front & Back | Yes | Yes | Front |
| Body colored bumpers | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Yes | Yes | Yes |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- The Baleno Sigma stands out with superior city mileage and Maruti’s promise of durability.
- Glanza E is closely matched in features but loses out slightly in city mileage.
- Altroz XE, while competent, falls a bit behind in terms of overall mileage and some conveniences.
The three variants offer a mix of safety, performance, and aesthetics that fit your wallet. They ensure that a limited budget doesn’t compromise essential features and safety.
If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.
Also read: Upcoming 2022 Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza rendered