Hyundai i20 vs Maruti Baleno vs Tata Altroz – Ultimate Premium Hatchback Comparison (2025)
If you’re a first time buyer or looking to upgrade your car in the market for a feature-packed, stylish, and reliable hatchback under ₹10 lakh in 2025, chances are you’re going to get confused between Hyundai i20, Maruti Suzuki Baleno, and Tata Altroz. These three dominate the premium hatchback segment in india with each having their unique strengths and target audiences.
In this guide, we’ll compare them in-depth across design, safety, mileage, performance, features, ownership experience, and finally – help you pick the best variant under ₹10 lakh.
Hyundai i20 vs Maruti Baleno vs Tata Altroz: Comparison Table
| Category | Tata Altroz | Hyundai i20 | Maruti Suzuki Baleno |
|---|---|---|---|
| Build (GNCAP) | 5-Star GNCAP (older gen) | 3- Star for adult occupants (unstable bodyshell) | Haven’t been tested by GNCAP (unstable body of previous gen) |
| Safety (Std) | 6 airbags standard, ESC, ISOFIX | 6 airbags, ESC, VSM, HAC | 2 airbags (6 from Zeta), ESP from Zeta |
| Engine | 1.2L Revotron Petrol (88 PS) | 1.2L Kappa Petrol (83 PS MT / 88 PS IVT) | 1.2L DualJet Petrol (90 PS) |
| Engine Options | 1.2L Petrol / Diesel / iCNG | 1.2L Petrol (MT/IVT) | 1.2L Petrol / CNG / AMT |
| Transmission | 5MT / AMT / DCA (DCT-type) | 5MT / IVT (CVT-type) | 5MT / AMT |
| CNG Option | ✅ (Pure, Creative, Accomplished trims) | ❌ | ✅ (Delta, Zeta trims) |
| Top Mileage | ~20.1 km/l | ~20.3 km/l | 🥇 ~22.3 km/l (Petrol) / ~30+ km/kg CNG |
| Infotainment | 10.25” HD Harman, 360° cam | 10.25” Bluelink, Bose (top trims) | 9” SmartPlay Pro+, 360° cam (Alpha) |
| Ride Quality | Balanced, highway-focused | Smooth city ride, light steering | City-friendly, comfort-biased |
| Boot Space | 345L | 311L | 318L |
Car Dimensions Comparison
| Car | Length (mm) | Width (mm) | Height (mm) | Wheelbase (mm) | Boot Space |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tata Altroz | 3,990 | 1,755 | 1,523 | 2,501 | 345L |
| Hyundai i20 | 3,995 | 1,775 | 1,505 | 2,580 | 311L |
| Baleno | 3,990 | 1,745 | 1,500 | 2,520 | 318L |
Insight:
- Widest: Hyundai i20 (better cabin space)
- Longest wheelbase: Hyundai i20 (enhanced legroom)
- Largest boot: Tata Altroz (most luggage-friendly)
Detailed Car-by-Car Breakdown
Tata Altroz – The Safest & Most Balanced Hatchback
Tata Altroz offers safety and robust designs, these are the two main pillars of this car which makes it stand out from the competition. With a Global NCAP 5-star safety rating, premium interiors, a mature suspension setup, and the most feature-rich mid-trims, it’s built for those who value substance over flash.
✅ Pros:
- 6 airbags standard
- iRA connected tech, 360° cam, voice-assisted sunroof
- Diesel & CNG options available
- Spacious & premium interiors
❌ Cons:
- AMT is less refined than CVT
- Touchscreen UI can be sluggish
- 3-Star Crash testing
User Voice:
“The build quality feels like a segment above. Great for highway stability.” – Altroz owner
Best Variant Under ₹10L:
Creative S Petrol AMT – ₹9.65L
Perfect balance of features, safety, and style.
Hyundai i20 – Most Stylish & Tech-Loaded
Hyundai i20 has always been the pinnacle of city driving enthusiasts with its city-friendly driving dynamics along with premium upmarket design and features. The IVT automatic is amongst the smoothest in the segment, while the cabin experience is top-notch.
✅ Pros:
- Bluelink, Bose audio, 10.25” infotainment
- IVT automatic is refined and smooth
- Best-in-class fit-finish and tech
❌ Cons:
- No CNG or diesel option
- Slightly overpriced top trims
- Not crash tested yet
Expert Take:
“The i20 IVT is a tech lover’s dream – effortless city cruising with premium appeal.” – ZigWheels
Best Variant Under ₹10L:
Sportz IVT – ₹9.46L
Great for city dwellers wanting comfort, automatic, and cool tech.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno – Most Efficient & Budget-Friendly
Maruti’s Baleno usually caters to a very specific audience whose needs are more center focused towards mileage, buyers who want a reliable, feature-rich hatchback with an extensive service network and low cost of ownership.
✅ Pros:
- Best mileage in class (Petrol & CNG)
- 9” touchscreen with Arkamys sound
- Widespread service & low maintenance
- AMT & CNG available under ₹10L
❌ Cons:
- 0-star GNCAP rating
- AMT not as smooth as rivals
- Build quality feels light
User Review:
“Baleno is perfect for the city, and I get 22+ km/l easily. But it doesn’t feel very solid at high speed.” – Baleno user
Best Variant Under ₹10L:
Zeta Petrol MT – ₹8.47L
Delta CNG MT – ₹8.44L (for those prioritizing running cost)
Note: All prices here are ex-showroom, Delhi.
Which Car is Right for You?
| Buyer Profile | Recommended Car & Variant |
|---|---|
| First-time buyer, budget-focused | Baleno Delta/Zeta MT |
| Urban commuter, prefers automatic | i20 Sportz IVT |
| Long-distance highway driver | Altroz Diesel Pure S / Creative S |
| Safety-first family | Altroz Creative S AMT / MT |
| Low running cost (CNG lovers) | Baleno Delta CNG |
| Feature lover with performance balance | Altroz Creative MT / Sportz (O) i20 |
Final Verdict: Best Hatchback Under ₹10 Lakh in 2025
Winner: Tata Altroz Creative S AMT – ₹9.65L
A rare blend of 5-star safety, premium features, solid build, and attractive styling – all under ₹10 lakh.
If you’re looking for tech and smooth auto, pick the i20 Sportz IVT.
If your top priority is value & mileage, nothing beats Baleno Zeta MT or Delta CNG.
Also Read: Tata Altroz Facelift 2025: Master Key To Most Value For Money Variant Unlocked
| Use Case | Recommended Car & Variant |
|---|---|
| Best Overall Package | Altroz Creative S Petrol AMT – ₹9.65L |
| Best for Urban Automatic Driving | i20 Sportz IVT – ₹9.46L |
| Best for Budget with Features | Baleno Zeta Petrol MT – ₹8.47L |
| Best for Mileage & Running Cost | Baleno Delta CNG MT – ₹8.44L |
| Best for Build & Highway Safety | Altroz Pure S Diesel – ₹8.99L or Creative MT – ₹8.69L |
Disclaimer: Always check with the respective official websites for most accurate prices and features list or any other information.