For over a decade, the Maruti Suzuki Baleno and the Hyundai i20 have repeatedly locked horns within the premium hatchback house. Earlier this yr, Hyundai up to date the i20 with a rejigged lineup, whereas Maruti launched a complete facelift to the Baleno lately. When you’re available in the market for a top-of-the-line premium hatchback, we’ve in contrast the Baleno and i20 on paper to find out the higher worth decide. On this comparability, we’ve chosen the highest Alpha(O) and Asta(O) trims of the Baleno and i20, respectively.
For full specs, options, and a value breakdown in our Baleno vs i20 comparability.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno vs Hyundai i20: Dimensions
Baleno is smaller than the i20 in a number of dimensions
Total, the i20 is longer, wider, and has an extended wheelbase than the Baleno. The latter, in the meantime, is taller and comes with a barely bigger boot capability.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno vs Hyundai i20: Powertrain choices
i20 produces barely extra energy
In top-spec guise, the Baleno and i20 are powered solely by a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. The distinction comes with the variety of cylinders, the place the previous’s mill is a 3-cylinder unit however the latter will get 4 cylinders. Energy output on each engines is a similar 83 hp, however the i20 in CVT guise develops 5hp extra. Additionally, the i20 delivers barely larger torque figures. A 5-speed guide gearbox is commonplace on each hatchbacks, however the Baleno gives a 5-speed AMT whereas the i20 gives a CVT gearbox.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno vs Hyundai i20: Exterior options
The Baleno and i20 come pretty geared up on the skin, with LED mild setups, energy folding ORVMs and 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheels. Nonetheless, fog lamps are discovered on the previous, whereas the latter will get puddle lamps with a welcome perform. Each fashions supply monotone color selections, however the i20 additionally gives dual-tone and matte-finish paint choices
Maruti Suzuki Baleno vs Hyundai i20: Inside options
Baleno will get segment-only options like ventilated seats and head-up show
Inside, the i20 comes with a bigger display screen, a single-pane sunroof, extra audio system, and ambient lighting over the Baleno. Then again, solely the latter comes with a head-up show and entrance seat air flow.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno vs Hyundai i20: Driving tech
Baleno will get adaptive cruise management; i20 the one one with drive modes
In the case of driving-related options, solely the i20 will get drive modes. Cruise management is offered on each hatchbacks, however the Baleno comes with adaptive cruise management, whereas the i20 options common cruise management.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno vs Hyundai i20: Security options
Degree 2 ADAS discovered solely on the Baleno
Although the Baleno and i20 are but to be examined by BNCAP, it is price noting that the previous’s pre-facelift model scored a 4-star ranking in crash security assessments. In the meantime, each premium hatchbacks come well-equipped with fundamental security options, airbags, TPMS, parking sensors, auto-dimming IRVM, and hill-hold help. Nonetheless, solely the Baleno comes geared up with a degree 2 ADAS suite and will get a devoted headrest and three-point seatbelt for the centre rear passenger over the i20. However the latter comes with a factory-fitted dashcam over the previous.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno vs Hyundai i20: Value and verdict
In petrol guide guise, the i20 is Rs 36,000 cheaper than the Baleno by Rs 36,000. If an computerized transmission is a precedence, the previous will price you an additional Rs 44,000 in comparison with the latter. When selecting between the 2, the i20 is the clear suggestion. In its petrol-manual model, it’s extra reasonably priced whereas packing options like a sunroof, a premium Bose audio system, ambient lighting, and a factory-fitted dashcam.
Whereas the Baleno counters with a head-up show, Degree 2 ADAS, and ventilated seats, these comfort options aren’t absolute dealbreakers. Moreover, despite the fact that the automated i20 carries the next price ticket than the Baleno, that premium is absolutely justified by the extra refined expertise of its CVT gearbox.