Toyota Glanza vs Maruti Suzuki Baleno: Which Car is Better?

The premium hatchback segment in India is fiercely competitive, with the Toyota Glanza and the Maruti Suzuki Baleno standing out as top contenders.

Both cars are built on the same platform, feature similar engines, and share many components. However, each comes with its unique attributes, making the choice between them challenging.

This article compares the Toyota Glanza and Maruti Suzuki Baleno across various parameters to help you decide which one suits your needs better.

Table of Contents

Exterior Design: Style That Makes a Statement

Toyota Glanza:
The Glanza features a sporty and premium look with a signature Toyota grille design. Its LED projector headlamps and sleek chrome accents enhance its road presence. The bold styling appeals to buyers looking for a sophisticated yet sporty hatchback.

Maruti Suzuki Baleno:
The Baleno boasts a contemporary design with a wide grille and stylish LED DRLs. The Nexa-exclusive design language makes it stand out with a more refined aesthetic.

Verdict:
While both cars look modern and appealing, the choice boils down to personal preference. The Glanza leans slightly toward sporty styling, while the Baleno has a more elegant and polished appearance.

Interior and Features: Tech-Loaded Cabins

Toyota Glanza:
The Glanza is equipped with a 22.86 cm Smart Playcast infotainment system that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A standout feature is the head-up display and 360-degree camera, which improve driver convenience and safety. Rear AC vents, automatic climate control, and a voice-enabled assistant further enhance the premium feel.

Maruti Suzuki Baleno:
The Baleno shares most of the interior features with the Glanza, including the same infotainment system, head-up display, and 360-degree camera. Additionally, it offers UV-cut glass, premium upholstery, and tilt-and-telescopic steering.

Verdict:
Both cars are neck and neck in terms of features, but Toyota’s “Hey Toyota” voice assistant gives the Glanza a slight edge in terms of innovation.

Performance: Smooth and Efficient Drives

Specifications	Toyota Glanza	Maruti Suzuki Baleno
Engine	1.2L K-Series Dual Jet, Dual VVT	1.2L K-Series Dual Jet, Dual VVT
Power Output	88.5 bhp	88.5 bhp
Torque	113 Nm	113 Nm
Transmission Options	5-speed manual, AGS	5-speed manual, AGS
Mileage (Petrol)	Up to 22.94 kmpl	Up to 22.35 kmpl
Mileage (CNG)	Available (Higher mileage)	Available (Similar mileage)

Both cars are powered by the same 1.2-liter petrol engine, ensuring a smooth driving experience. The performance in city traffic and highway conditions is nearly identical, offering a balanced blend of power and efficiency.

Verdict:
The Glanza delivers slightly better mileage in petrol mode, which could tip the scales in its favor for long-term cost-conscious buyers.

Safety Features: Prioritizing Protection

Toyota Glanza:
The Glanza is equipped with 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, hill hold assist, ESP, and ISOFIX child seat anchors. The rear parking camera and sensors add an extra layer of safety.

Maruti Suzuki Baleno:
The Baleno matches the Glanza’s safety features, offering 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, and ESP. Like the Glanza, it also includes a rear parking camera and sensors for easy maneuvering.

Verdict:
Both cars provide excellent safety features, making them reliable choices for families. However, Toyota’s reputation for durability and long-term reliability might make the Glanza a more appealing option.

Pricing and Variants: Value for Money

Aspect	Toyota Glanza	Maruti Suzuki Baleno
Base Variant Price	₹6.59 lakh (E variant)	₹6.66 lakh (Sigma variant)
Top Variant Price	₹9.99 lakh (V variant)	₹9.84 lakh (Alpha variant)
Variants Available	E, S, G, V	Sigma, Delta, Zeta, Alpha

Both cars offer competitive pricing, but Toyota edges ahead with a slightly lower starting price and an attractive warranty package (3 years/1 lakh km, extendable to 5 years). Maruti’s wide service network is a significant advantage, ensuring easier maintenance across the country.

After-Sales and Resale Value

Toyota Glanza:
Toyota is known for its reliable after-sales service and excellent resale value. The Glanza benefits from Toyota’s reputation for durability, making it a solid long-term investment.

Maruti Suzuki Baleno:
Maruti’s extensive service network and affordable maintenance costs make the Baleno a preferred choice for budget-conscious buyers. The Baleno also enjoys strong resale value due to Maruti’s popularity in India.

Verdict:
Both cars excel in after-sales support, but if nationwide service coverage is your priority, the Baleno holds a slight advantage.

Key Comparison Table

Feature	Toyota Glanza	Maruti Suzuki Baleno
Design	Sporty and modern	Elegant and polished
Engine	1.2L Petrol, 88.5 bhp	1.2L Petrol, 88.5 bhp
Mileage	Up to 22.94 kmpl	Up to 22.35 kmpl
Infotainment	22.86 cm Smart Playcast	22.86 cm Smart Playcast
Unique Features	Hey Toyota Assistant, Better Mileage	UV-Cut Glass, Premium Upholstery
Safety Features	6 Airbags, ESP, Hill Hold Assist	6 Airbags, ESP, Hill Hold Assist
Base Price	₹6.59 lakh	₹6.66 lakh
Top Variant Price	₹9.99 lakh	₹9.84 lakh
Warranty	3 years/1 lakh km (extendable)	2 years/40,000 km (extendable)

Conclusion: Toyota Glanza or Maruti Suzuki Baleno?

Choosing between the Toyota Glanza and the Maruti Suzuki Baleno depends on your preferences and priorities. If you value slightly better mileage, Toyota’s brand reliability, and innovative features like the voice assistant, the Glanza is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer wider service accessibility and Nexa-exclusive features, the Baleno is a strong contender.

Both cars deliver outstanding value, but the Toyota Glanza edges ahead with its fuel efficiency, attractive pricing, and Toyota’s trusted reliability.

FAQs

Are the Toyota Glanza and Maruti Suzuki Baleno the same car?
Both cars are built on the same platform and share engines and many features, but they have different styling and unique features.
Which car offers better mileage?
The Toyota Glanza offers slightly better mileage, up to 22.94 kmpl, compared to Baleno’s 22.35 kmpl.
Which car is safer: Glanza or Baleno?
Both cars offer 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, and ESP, ensuring high safety standards.
Which car is more affordable?
The Toyota Glanza has a slightly lower starting price of ₹6.59 lakh compared to Baleno’s ₹6.66 lakh.
Which car is better for long-term ownership?
The Toyota Glanza, backed by Toyota’s reputation for durability and better warranty, is a more reliable choice for long-term ownership.

Maruti Suzuki Baleno: A Premium Hatchback Redefining Comfort and Style