Maruti recently hiked the prices of the Baleno by Rs. 5000-12,000/- so we do a quick price comparo with its closest rivals and check out whether it still offers value or not.
Base variants – The base trim of the Baleno is significantly cheaper than the i20 and the Jazz. The Jazz being the most expensive here offers the least value. Even when we take diesel variants into consideration, the Baleno is still the cheapest while the i20 is marginally pricier. The Jazz is again very costly. Talking about features, the Baleno and i20 get standard dual front airbags while the Jazz misses out on this important feature. The Baleno also offers ABS with EBD, something that is missing on both the i20 and Jazz. All the models get a manual AC and power windows though.
Mid variants – The Baleno Delta is cheaper than the i20 Magna and Jazz S. Hyundai’s Sportz trim is slightly pricier than the Baleno Zeta while the Jazz SV costs much more. The Korean automaker recently discontinued the Sportz (O) trim. Trends are similar with diesel variants. The Baleno offering much more value than the Jazz and the i20. All the models here come with a music system that offers USB, Bluetooth and steering mounted controls. Remote keyless entry, electrically foldable mirrors are also on offer. It is very clear that it is the Baleno which looks like the most value for money proposition.
Top variants – The Baleno Alpha is priced in very close proximity of the i20 Asta so the battle gets really tough. Both the cars get a touchscreen infotainment system while the Baleno also has projector headlamps. The Asta(O) trim also gets projectors and LED DRLs but it costs Rs. 25,000/- more. The Jazz V is also priced similarly to its rivals and thus it makes for a compelling case for itself when we talk about top variants. It also gets the unique Magic Seats feature.
Verdict – It goes without saying that when we compare these cars variant to variant, Maruti knows how to offer the most value with the Baleno being an extremely well-priced product in its segment. The base and mid variants of the Jazz are outright expensive but the top variant still offers good value. The i20 has always felt inflated but then again, it is the top variant which offers the most bang for the buck. So, if you’re looking to buy a base or a mid variant, you would be better off with the Baleno while if you really want the top most trim, all three of them are priced at similar levels.
