When it comes to the premium hatchback space, two models that often come to mind are the Hyundai i20 and the Maruti Suzuki Baleno. Both these cars have a long rival history, and customers are often perplexed in making a sound decision between the two. This is primarily because both have their own strengths and weaknesses. Thus, comparing them and determining what both premium hatchbacks offer in terms of features, performance, and design, is essential to make a sound decision. Walk through the differences between Maruti Suzuki Baleno vs Hyundai i20 on different grounds:
Maruti Suzuki Baleno vs Hyundai i20: Dimensions
| Parameter | Maruti Suzuki Baleno | Hyundai i20 |
| Length (mm) | 3,995 mm | 3995 mm |
| Width (mm) | 1,745 mm | 1775 mm |
| Height (mm) | 1,510 mm | 1505 mm |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2,520 mm | 2580 mm |
| Boot Space (L) | 318 L | 311 L |
| Ground clearance (mm) | 170 mm | 170 mm |
With a marginally larger width and slightly elongated wheelbase, the passengers of i20 have slightly more shoulder room at the back for more comfort.
The i20 has a slightly lesser height coupled with its aggressive design, giving it a sporty look, but it can also be in the Baleno’s favour as it does marginally win in case of slightly more headroom. Though the headroom difference would be negligible in most cases.
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno has a slightly larger boot capacity than the i20, which could be useful for fitting slightly more luggage.
Based on their dimensions alone, the Maruti Suzuki Baleno and Hyundai i20 appear to be quite similar cars, with the i20 offering slightly more shoulder room, and the Baleno offering slightly more headroom. However, it is essential to consider other factors such as engine performance, features, and price before making a final decision.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno vs Hyundai i20: Engine and Transmission
| Parameter | Maruti Suzuki Baleno | Hyundai i20 |
| Engine options | 1.2-litre petrol | 1.2 -litre petrol & 1.0-litre turbo petrol |
| Transmission options | Manual/CVT | 6-speed Manual or Automatic (IVT) Automatic (DCT) |
| Power | 82 PS | 83 PS (Petrol) or 118 PS (Turbo Petrol) |
| Torque (Nm) | 113@4200 | 115@4200 (Petrol) or 171.62@1500-4000 (Turbo Petrol) |
| Mileage | 19.56-21 kmpl (Petrol) | 19.65 kmpl (Turbo Petrol) to 21.0 kmpl (Petrol) |
From the table above, it is clear that only the Hyundai i20 has a realistic option for those who want a performance oriented car, since it has a turbo petrol. There are quite a few variants of the Hyundai i20, featuring manual, DCT, or iVT transmission options paired with either of its engine duo (It should be noted that not all variants offer both transmission options; rather, each variant comes with a specific transmission option paired with its engine).
Thus, the i20 offers more variety and performance in terms of engines and transmission options than the Maruti Suzuki Baleno. However, the Baleno has an edge over the i20 in terms of fuel efficiency and affordability.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno vs Hyundai i20: Features and Comfort
| Feature | Maruti Suzuki Baleno | Hyundai i20 |
| Infotainment System | 9 inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay | 10.25 inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay |
| Music System | 4 speakers | 7 speakers |
| Climate Control | Automatic | Automatic |
| Ventilated Seats | Not available | Not available |
| Adjustable Steering | Tilt and Telescopic | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Drive Modes | Not available | Not Available |
| Instrument Cluster | Analog | Analog and Digital |
| Sunroof | Not available | Not available |
| Adjustable Seats (Manual or Electric) | Manual | Manual |
| Rear AC Vents | Yes | Yes |
| 60:40 Rear Seat Split | Yes | Not available |
| Cruise Control | Yes | Yes |
The Hyundai i20 offers more features than the Maruti Suzuki Baleno in terms of comfort, convenience, and safety. The i20 gets features like a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a digital instrument cluster with TFT MID, a wireless phone charger, an electric sunroof, a rear AC vent, a cooled glove box, an air purifier, and a Bose sound system. The Baleno on the other hand gets a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with SmartPlay Pro+ connectivity, a head-up display, a 360-degree camera, and an auto-dimming IRVM. The i20 and Baleno both feel quite upmarket and premium. The i20 feels more of a technology oriented car where technology geeks would love playing around in its cabin, the Baleno is more focused on the common man and gives a more easy going feel.
In terms of features, both cars offer a variety of modern amenities and it ultimately should come down to what features you prefer over the others.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno vs Hyundai i20: Safety Features
| Feature | Maruti Suzuki Baleno | Hyundai i20 |
| GNCAP safety ratings | Not Tested | 3 Stars in GNCAP |
| Airbags | 6 | 6 |
| ABS with EBD | Yes | Yes |
| ESC | Available | Available |
| Traction control | Not available | Not available |
| Automatic headlamps | Available from mid variant | Available |
| Rain sensing wipers | Available in top-end variant | Not available |
| Hill hold assist | Available | Available |
| Hill descent control | Not available | Not available |
| Rear sensors | Available in top-end variant | Available |
| Rear parking camera | Available in top-end variant | Available |
| ISOFIX child seat anchor points | Yes | Yes |
| ADAS | Not available | Not available |
While the safety ratings are not yet available for Baleno, the i20 has a 3-star rating. While the base variant was tested, the top end model for this is surely safer. Both cars are quite well equipped to withstand the impact of an unforeseen crash accident. Dual front airbags, ABS, EBD, seat belt reminders and speed alert systems are standard on both hatchbacks, while six airbags, hill-hold control, a reversing camera and an electronic stability programme are available on the top-end trims of both models. The Baleno has a 360-degree surround vision camera in addition to these, while the i20 additionally has vehicle stability management. This indicates that the two hatchbacks have a comparable assortment of safety equipment.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno vs Hyundai i20: Price Comparison
| Variant | Maruti Suzuki Baleno | Hyundai i20 |
| Base | ₹6.61 lakh | ₹7.46 Lakh |
| Mid | ₹7.45 – 8.35 lakh (available in AMT and CNG trims as well) | ₹8.08 – 10.16 (Dual Tone available with iVT & DCT optional) |
| Upper mid | ₹8.38 -9.28 lakh (available in AMT and CNG trims as well) | ₹9.04 Lakh |
| Top | ₹9.33-9.88 lakh (available in AMT and CNG trims as well) | ₹9.77 – 11.88 Lakh (Dual Tone available with DCT optional) |
In terms of pricing, the Baleno is generally priced lower than the i20, with its base variant starting at around Rs. 5.9 lakh and going up to Rs. 8.37 lakh. The i20, on the other hand, starts at around Rs. 7.19 lakh and goes up to Rs. 11.62 lakh. However, prices may vary depending on the specific variant and location.
It can be said that the Maruti Suzuki Baleno offers a better value for money than the Hyundai i20. The Baleno is cheaper than the i20 across all variants and offers higher mileage and lower maintenance cost. The i20, on the other hand, is more expensive than the Baleno and offers lower mileage and higher maintenance cost. The i20 does offer more features and performance than the Baleno, but they may not justify the premium price for some buyers. Therefore, the Baleno may be a more economical and practical choice for most buyers, while the i20 may appeal to those who want more style and power.
Summary
The Hyundai i20 offers more style, performance, and features than the Maruti Suzuki Baleno, but it is also more expensive and less fuel-efficient. The Baleno offers more value for money, higher mileage, and lower maintenance cost than the i20, but it lacks some features and safety equipment. In the end, the decision is yours. You should choose the car according to your personal preferences and budget.
