Tata Altroz DCA v/s Maruti Suzuki Baleno (automatic): A comparison
What's the story
Tata Motors had launched the automatic version of its Altroz in India earlier this week. Its range-topping XZA+ Dark trim has an eye-catching look, a spacious cabin loaded with features, and is fueled by a 1.2-liter, three-cylinder, naturally aspirated petrol engine. But is it better to buy the Altroz DCA or the Baleno Alpha AMT, which is another great model around Rs. 10 lakh?
Context
Why does this story matter?
The Tata Altroz is India's second most selling hatchback after the Maruti Suzuki Baleno. The introduction of an automatic variant should raise its appeal in the market and attract a lot of customers. Meanwhile, the 2022 Baleno has received 50,000 bookings since its launch. Its good looks, long list of features, and decent performance draw the attention of the Indian buyer.
Exteriors
The Altroz has better looks and larger proportions
The Tata Altroz is taller, wider, and has more boot space as compared to the Baleno. It flaunts swept-back automatic headlights with DRLs, 16-inch alloy wheels, and is available in six shades. Meanwhile, the Baleno sports a chrome-surrounded mesh grille, indicator-mounted ORVMs, and an all-LED lighting setup. Its wheelbase is slightly more than the Altroz (2,520mm v/s 2,501mm).
Interiors
The Altroz's cabin bears a more attractive look
Both the Tata Altroz and Maruti Suzuki Baleno have a spacious cabin with five seats and a flat-bottom multifunctional steering wheel. The Altroz has a dual-tone dashboard with blue accents, a large center console, and rectangular AC vents. On the other hand, the Baleno gets a leather-wrapped steering wheel, plush dual-tone interiors, and silver accents on the dashboard.
Features
From six airbags to a head-up display
Both Altroz and Baleno offer auto climate control, key-less entry, parking sensors, and a height-adjustable driver's seat. They also pack a 7.0-inch and 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment console, respectively, with support for the latest connectivity options. The Altroz gets two airbags and an engine start-stop button, while the Baleno has six airbags, hill assist, a 360-degree-view camera, an Arkayms music system, and a head-up display.
Performance
The Baleno runs on a more powerful engine
Tata Altroz DCA is fueled by a 1.2-liter, three-cylinder, naturally aspirated petrol engine that generates a maximum power of 85hp and a peak torque of 113Nm. The motor is paired to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. The Maruti Suzuki Baleno (automatic) draws power from a 1.2-liter, dual VVT petrol unit that puts out 89hp/113Nm. The mill is linked to a 5-speed AMT gearbox.
Our verdict
Which one should you buy?
The top-end DCA XZA+ Dark variant of the Tata Altroz carries a price-tag of Rs. 9.9 lakh, while the Maruti Suzuki Baleno Alpha AMT sports a price-figure of Rs. 9.49 lakh (both prices, ex-showroom, New Delhi). The two cars are almost evenly matched. However, our vote goes to the Baleno because of its slightly lower price, better performance, and extra tech-based features.