Baleno vs i20 vs Altroz: engine and features compared

Maruti Baleno, Hyundai i20 and Tata Altroz are three well-known options for buyers looking at premium hatchbacks. After the recent update, the Baleno has seen a major change in engine, technology and features. Priced from about Rs 6.10 lakh, the Baleno now competes directly with the i20 and the Altroz. Since features differ across the three cars, the right choice depends on what a buyer wants from the vehicle.

The new Baleno gets a 1.2 litre 3-cylinder Z-Series petrol engine producing 82 bhp and 112.4 Nm of torque. The company claims a mileage of up to 23.8 kmpl for the petrol version. A CNG option is also available. The biggest highlights of the new model are features such as Level 2 ADAS, a 360-degree camera and ventilated front seats. For those who want both mileage and technology, the Baleno is a strong contender.

The Hyundai i20 has a 1.2 litre 4-cylinder petrol engine that generates 82 bhp and 114.7 Nm of torque. The car's highlights are its premium cabin and smooth IVT automatic gearbox. Its wheelbase is 2,580 mm, which gives the cabin considerable space. The i20 is a good option for those who want comfortable, smooth city driving.

The Tata Altroz has a 1.2 litre 3-cylinder petrol engine that delivers 87 bhp and 115 Nm of torque. It offers AMT and DCT automatic options along with petrol and CNG powertrains. Its boot space is 345 litres, the largest among the three cars. Buyers wanting larger boot space, a range of powertrain options and a strong safety package could consider the Altroz.

Overall, the Baleno stands out for mileage and features, the i20 for refinement and smooth driving, and the Altroz for a versatile package. Which of the three is the best choice depends entirely on the buyer's own needs.