KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Altroz facelift brings premium feel to the segment.
- Baleno offers trust with widespread service network coverage.
- Both hatchbacks get similar 1.2L petrol engines.
- Altroz undercuts Baleno in price, offers freshness.
- AMT gearbox focuses on convenience, not smoothness.
Tata Altroz Creative S AMT Vs Maruti Baleno Alpha AMT: Tata Motors came up with the new iteration of its premium hatchback last week - the Altroz. The facelifted Altroz is not just a facelift, but much more than that. Basically, this hatch has got more premium and ups the ante when it comes to features. Personally, I feel the new Altroz has truly killed the competition by loading itself with premium touches and features to the brim. But still, it has rivals such as the Maruti Baleno/Toyota Glanza and the Hyundai i20.
We already have filed several content pieces on what competition offers. But this article would primarily compare the AMT versions of the new Altroz and Maruti Suzuki Baleno. Is the new Tata Altroz AMT offers better value for money than the Baleno AMT or Maruti's reliability and service network compensates for the Altroz's feature prowess? Find out all the answers below and join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Community to stay updated on the latest autmotive news.
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Tata Altroz Creative S AMT Vs Maruti Baleno Alpha AMT: Which One is a Better Pick?
Keeping it straight, I'll not talk much about the design because design is more a personal choice and I usually refuse to comment on point which depends more on individuality rather than the value for money or utility. I will be covering points like price difference, features, and lastly a verdict, which will tell you which one is an ideal pick according to your needs and requirements.
Price Difference Between Altroz Creative S AMT and Baleno Alpha AMT
keeping in mind the value proposition, both cars are reasonably priced and justify their price tag. The highest variant you can opt while buying the Altroz CNG is the Creative S, priced at Rs. 9.65 (ex-showroom). On the other hand, Maruti offers the AMT option, even with the top-end Alpha AMT trim of the Baleno, which is priced at Rs. 9.92 lakh (ex-showroom). Does it mean you get less features with the Altroz and more with the Baleno? Hold on buddy! there's much more that I need to tell you.
Is There a Major Difference in Power Output?
Both cars get a 1.2 litre NA petrol engine which is an ideal choice for urban commuters. But still some people need figures - so, let me tell you that the Altroz's powerhouse, mated to a 5 speed AMT is capable of churning out 87 bhp and 115 Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the Baleno's engine, paired with a five-speed AGS bring 1 bhp more but 2 Nm less to the table - 88 bhp and 113 Nm.Actually, this difference in numbers doesn't make any big difference when it comes to performance.
In my opinion, when buying a car with AMT gearbox you should keep in mind that they just offer you the convenience of automatic shifts at an affordable price- but you can't expect that highway cruising or overtaking prowess from these cars. Which one's AMT is good to have among these? - I can't comment on this. So, it's better to spare up time and book a test drive for both and experience on your own.
Features: Which One Offers More?
While both the Altroz and Baleno offer a good value per rupee, but as the Altroz has just got an update, it offers more modern stuff when compared to the Maruti Baleno. The Creative S AMT trim of the Altroz is loaded with features such as
- 10.25 inch touchscreen infotainment system
- 360 degree camera
- Voice-assisted electric sunroof
- Rear AC vents
- Cooled glovebox
- 16 inch dual-tone hyperstyle wheels
Note: Check out the detailed variant explanation for the whole lineup of Altroz here
On the other hand, the Baleno's Alpha AMT trim feature list includes:
- 9 inch touchscreen infotainment system with SmartPlay Pro+
- 360 degree camera
- Arkmays sound system
- Heads-up display
- 16 inch dual-tone alloy wheels.
Note: Check out the detailed feature list of the Baleno lineup here
Verdict
Between the two, the Tata Altroz Creative S AMT feels like the more sensible and rewarding choice. It undercuts the Baleno on price while delivering a more premium experience overall. The recent update gives it a fresh edge in the segment, making it hard to ignore. While the Baleno holds its ground with Maruti'S reliability and service reach, the Altroz simply feels more complete and value-packed for what you pay. It's the smarter pick for modern-day buyers.
In short: If you are buying with your head, the Baleno might feel safer. But if you are buying with your heart (and eyes on features), the Altroz is the smarter pick for your money.
