The Battle of Premium Hatchbacks: Hyundai i20 vs Baleno

Hatchbacks have always remained popular especially because of their generous space, simplicity and cost-effectiveness. However, premium hatchbacks with advanced features and superior power have been marking their place in the industry recently. Hyundai’s i20, a Korean marquee, is one of the oldest competitors in this market. It has a long list of impressive features as well as a modern European-inspired look. In direct competition, Maruti Suzuki resurrected its vintage Baleno and breathed fresh life into it in an attempt to respond appropriately to its major competition, as a modern premium hatchback, ready to compete with the ever-popular Hyundai i20 hatchback. When it comes to design and fresh look the i20 with its aerodynamic design has an added advantage since it helps in reducing air resistance for enhanced handling and better fuel efficiency. Hyundai built the i20 based on the unique Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design, which includes a Parametric jewel pattern grille, R16 diamond cut alloy wheel, shark fin antenna, Z-shaped LED tail lamps and more.

Engine choices and performance

The Maruti Suzuki Baleno offers a 1.2-litre petrol engine and the 1.3-litre DDiS 190 diesel engine as its standard engine options. The Hyundai i20 hatchback on the other hand offers three engine options, two petrol variants and one diesel variant. It includes the 1.2 MPI petrol engine with dual VTVT (MT), 1.0 l Turbo GDi petrol engine and the 1.4 CRDi diesel engine. The i20 edges out Baleno with respect to its diesel and turbo engines which are slightly more powerful. The 1.0 l Turbo GDi petrol engine has a maximum power of 118.36 ps at 6000rpm, while the 1.4 CRDi diesel engine has a maximum power of 90 ps at 4000 rpm. Both cars come with a 5-speed manual transmission and an automatic transmission option for the fuel variants. The i20 comes with a 6-speed manual transmission, unlike the Baleno.

Safety features

While Baleno is quite good with its ultimate features the i20 is simply better. The advanced safety features within the i20 is slightly overwhelming, but more is always good when it comes to safety and security. Some of these exclusive features include the 6 airbag system, ISOFIX, Impact sensing auto door unlock, Speed-sensing auto door lock, rear defogger with timer, ABS with EBD, Electronic stability control (ESC) with vehicle stability management (VSM), Burglar alarm, Hill Assist Control (HAC), Tyre pressure monitoring system with the display on MID, rear camera with dynamic guidelines and it just keeps going on and on.

Advanced technology

When it comes to bells and whistles that blow the rooftops, Hyundai wins hands down. So many new and exciting features that don’t just look pretty but are also very convenient to use. The Blue Link technology for instance is one such feature. It is an AI-based technology with an inbuilt Sim card and a connection to a 24/7 call centre for your safety and convenience. Moreover, the Blue Link can aid you with numerous functions like Auto Crash Notification (ACN), SOS/emergency assistance, Roadside Assistance, Vehicle Navigation Control and more. The i20 is also loaded to the brim with high-end technology like the new electric sunroof, Bose’s premium 7-speaker sound system, 26.03 cm HD touchscreen infotainment and navigation system, Oxyboost air purifier with air quality indicator, wireless charger with a cooling pad, Steering wheel with audio and Bluetooth controls, fully automatic temperature control, Glovebox cooling and Tilt & Telescopic steering. There is just no end to the amazing features that Hyundai has equipped in the i20. In addition to that India’s first Hyundai, Mobility Membership has also been introduced with the new i20, providing access to a lifetime of quality services. It offers unconditional benefits including discounts on car accessories, wellness, tyre replacements, car rentals and subscriptions, discounts on entertainment, etc. Ultimately, the new Hyundai i20 wins with its numerous safety features, powerful engines and advanced technology. If you’re looking to own a hatchback, visit the nearest Capital Hyundai outlet and test drive the new i20 and avail exciting benefits.