Maruti Suzuki Baleno vs Tata Altroz: Performance, Features and Price

The Maruti Suzuki Baleno and Tata Altroz are high-priced hatchbacks with contemporary features, functional interiors and multiple engines. The new petrol engine and other driver assistance technology are included with the updated 2026 Baleno. The Tata Altroz is available in petrol, diesel and CNG variants, and also has various automatic transmission options. So, how do the two hatchback cars stack up against each other in terms of performance, features and price?

Performance

The 2026 Maruti Suzuki Baleno will feature a 1.2-litre, three-cylinder Z12E petrol engine with a maximum power output of around 83 PS and 112.4 Nm of torque. It comes with a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 5-speed Auto Gear Shift (AGS) transmission. The claimed fuel economy for the petrol version is 23.80 km/l, and 24.77 km/l for the AGS version. A CNG factory-fitted option, offering about 70 PS and 102 Nm of torque also is in the market.

The Tata Altroz comes with three fuel variants. It has a 1.2-litre gas-guzzling engine that delivers around 88 PS and 115 Nm of torque. The diesel engine can also be selected, with about 90 PS and 200 Nm of torque, or the CNG engine which has around 74 PS and 103 Nm of torque. Depending on engine and variant, transmission is a 5-speed automatic manual (AMT), 5-speed manual or 6-speed dual clutch automatic (DCA).

For everyday use, the Baleno offers a fuel-saving petrol engine as well as a CNG mode. For those who prefer a diesel engine, or an automatic transmission paired with the petrol engine, the Altroz's powertrain options are more diverse.

Safety and Comfort are the features

A 9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ touchscreen infotainment system, a 360-degree camera and ventilated front seats are featured on selected variants, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto also come standard. Other gear up for sports includes an automatic climate control system, a cooled wireless charger and connected-car equipment. It has six airbags, electronic stability control and the advanced driver assistance system (Level 2 ADAS) on the top variant, the Alpha (O).

On the higher variants, the Tata Altroz is equipped with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a digital instrument display. Other extras comprise a voice-controlled electric sunroof, auto climate control, ambient lighting, wireless charging, rear AC vents and a 360-degree camera. Pick-up variants also have a bigger digital instrument cluster and more connected-car options.

The hatchbacks are standard with 6 airbags. The Altroz is also 5-star rated by Bharat NCAP. The Baleno's top variant includes additional driver-assistance technology, and the Altroz features a larger infotainment screen and sunroof in some of its trims. The features listed here may be different depending on what variant you have.

Price

The price of Maruti Suzuki Baleno is Rs 5.99 lakh to Rs 9.99 lakh (ex-showroom). It comes in petrol and CNG variants, while the manual and AGS transmission options are available for some variants.

The Tata Altroz is available for around ₹6 lakh to ₹10.90 lakh (ex-showroom) based on the fuel variant, gear and variant.

The prices might change upon updates or locations, please check the current price with the manufacturers.

Want to know more about the Maruti Suzuki Baleno vs Hyundai i20? Click here

Conclusion

The petrol and CNG variants of the Maruti Suzuki Baleno boast claimed fuel-efficiency values, ventilated front seats, and Level 2 ADAS on the highest variant. Available in petrol, diesel and CNG variants, the Tata Altroz also comes with several transmission options and passengers can enjoy a sunroof and a bigger touchscreen on some of its variants. By comparing the price range of the different variants, the required powertrain, features, and safety equipment, car buyers can determine which hatchback they need.