KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Hyundai i20 offers a premium feel with features.
- Tata Altroz provides multiple powertrain options, including diesel.
- Maruti Baleno includes idle start/stop tech in petrol.
- Altroz boasts 5-star Global NCAP safety rating.
- All three hatchbacks feature cruise control and sunroof.
The premium hatchback segment is one of the most competitive car category in India. However, every automaker in our region has at least one premium hatchback in its portfolio. But only some popular models such as the Hyundai i20 have managed to establish its name as a premium hatchback. The major reason behind the i20's success in the segment is the upmarket feel it provides with its features and interior. But even after being a great player in the category, the Hyundai i20 faces stiff competition from rivals such as the Maruti Baleno, and Tata Altroz. So, below you can check out a detailed comparison between these three hatchbacks. Before moving ahead, join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Community to stay updated on the latest automotive news.
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Hyundai i20 Vs Tata Altroz Vs Maruti Baleno: Powertrain
The Hyundai i20 sources its power from a 1.2-litre petrol engine that makes 83 PS of power and 115 Nm of torque. The powerhouse on offer comes mated to a 5-speed manual or a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) unit. When paired with a CVT unit, the power gets increased by 5 PS while the torque output remains the same.
The Tata Altroz standard edition is a straight rival of the Hyundai i20. This hatchback brings three powertrain options- which include a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated engine, a 1.5-litre diesel unit and a Bi-fuel CNG. However, each engine option comes mated to a 5-speed manual transmission, petrol and diesel variants also get a DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) automatic transmission.
- Altroz Petrol: 88 PS and 115 Nm
- Tata Altroz Diesel: 90 PS and 200 Nm
- Tata Altroz CNG: 73.5 PS and 103 Nm
In comparison, the Maruti Baleno gets two powertrain options which include a 1.2-litre petrol engine and a CNG-fueled iteration of the same petrol engine. While the former generates 90 PS and 113 Nm, the latter makes 77.5 PS and 98 Nm. Transmission options on offer include a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed AMT unit (limited to petrol variant). Additionally, Maruti offers idle start/stop tech with the petrol variants of the hatchback.
Winner: In my opinion, in terms of powertrain, the Hyundai i20 and the Tata Altroz are much better than the Maruti Baleno as they offer a CVT and DCT unit. If I need to choose one of these, I'll opt for the Tata Altroz because of its 200 Nm figure :)
Hyundai i20 Vs Tata Altroz Vs Maruti Baleno: Features
The Hyundai's premium hatchback, i20 gets features such as a 10.25-inch instrument console and semi-digital instrument cluster, wireless charging, cruise control and a sunroof.
The Tata Altroz is not less than the Hyundai i20 in terms of features. It gets a 10.25-inch instrument cluster, a 7-inch fully digital instrument cluster, cruise control, a sunroof (single pane) and ambient lighting as well.
On the other hand, the Maruti Baleno has features such as a 9-inch infotainment system, Arkamys-tuned audio system, cruise control, automatic climate control, push-button start/stop and keyless entry.
Winner: In terms of features, there is no big difference as all three hatchbacks have a similar set of features. But the Hyundai i20 dashboard feels more premium which gives it an edge over its rivals.
Hyundai i20 Vs Tata Altroz Vs Maruti Baleno: Safety
The Hyundai i20 offers the best safety kit in the segment with features such as six airbags as standard, Electronic stability control, hill assist control, rear parking camera, ISOFIX mounts and vehicle stability control.
The Tata Altroz on the other hand offers gold-standard safety because of its toughest platform and features such as six airbags, 360-degree camera, ISOFIX mounts, rear parking sensor and auto park lock for DCT variants.
Maruti Baleno also gets six airbags but not as standard, hill-hold assist, 360-degree camera, Electronic Stability control and hill-hold assist, 3-point seatbelts and rear parking sensors. Notably, most of these features are provided with the higher trims of the Maruti Baleno.
Winner: In terms of safety, I would say both the Tata Altroz and the Hyundai i20 are much better options. Again, If I need to choose one of these, I would be going for the Altroz because it boasts a 5-star Global NCAP rating.
Hyundai i20 Vs Tata Altroz Vs Maruti Baleno: Dimensions and Design
| Car | Length (mm) | Width (mm) | Height (mm) | Design |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai i20 | 3995 | 1775 | 1505 | Sporty and dynamic design with bold front grille |
| Tata Altroz | 3990 | 1755 | 1523 | Unique, striking design with sharp edges |
| Maruti Baleno | 3990 | 1745 | 1510 | Conservative, elegant design with smooth curves |
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Verdict
The Hyundai i20, Tata Altroz, and Maruti Baleno all bring strong offerings in the premium hatchback segment. However, the Tata Altroz stands out for its superior powertrain options and top-tier safety, including a 5-star Global NCAP rating. While the i20 offers a more premium interior, the Altroz edges ahead as the better overall package.
