The Toyota Glanza : The Toyota Glanza, introduced in 2019, marks Toyota’s entry into the premium hatchback segment in India.
This vehicle is the result of a unique partnership between Toyota and Maruti Suzuki, essentially being a rebadged version of the popular Maruti Suzuki Baleno.
Let’s delve into what makes the Glanza stand out in the crowded hatchback market.
Design and Exterior-
At first glance, the Glanza bears a striking resemblance to its Maruti counterpart. The sleek design features a bold front grille adorned with Toyota’s logo, swept-back headlamps, and a sculpted bonnet that gives it a sporty appearance.
The side profile showcases a rising beltline and stylish alloy wheels, while the rear sports wrap-around tail lamps and a neatly designed bumper.
The Glanza’s dimensions are identical to the Baleno, measuring 3,995mm in length, 1,745mm in width, and 1,510mm in height. This compact size makes it ideal for navigating through congested city streets while still offering ample interior space.
Interior and Features-
Step inside the Glanza, and you’re greeted with a well-appointed cabin that exudes a premium feel.
The dashboard layout is clean and functional, with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system taking center stage. This system supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless smartphone integration.
Key features of the Glanza include:
Automatic climate control
Push-button start
Steering-mounted controls
Rear parking camera
Height-adjustable driver’s seat
60:40 split rear seats for added versatility
The Glanza also boasts impressive space utilization. The rear seats offer good legroom and headroom, making it comfortable for adult passengers.
The boot space of 339 liters is generous for its class, providing ample storage for weekend getaways or grocery runs.
Performance and Powertrain-
Under the hood, the Glanza offers two petrol engine options:
1.2-liter K12N DualJet petrol engine: This newer addition produces 89 bhp and 113 Nm of torque. It comes with a mild-hybrid system that enhances fuel efficiency.
1.2-liter K12M VVT petrol engine: The older variant generates 82 bhp and 113 Nm of torque.
Both engines can be paired with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) automatic.
The manual offers better control and engagement for enthusiasts, while the CVT provides smooth, effortless driving, especially in city traffic.
The Glanza’s ride quality is well-tuned for Indian road conditions. It absorbs bumps and potholes with ease, providing a comfortable experience for passengers.
The light steering makes city driving a breeze, while still offering enough feedback at higher speeds for confident highway cruising.
Fuel Efficiency-
One of the Glanza’s strong suits is its impressive fuel efficiency. Toyota claims a mileage of 23.87 km/l for the manual variant with the DualJet engine, making it one of the most fuel-efficient petrol hatchbacks in its segment.
The CVT variant offers a claimed efficiency of 19.56 km/l, which is still commendable for an automatic transmission.
Safety Features-
Toyota hasn’t compromised on safety with the Glanza. Standard safety features across all variants include:
Dual front airbags
ABS with EBD
ISOFIX child seat anchors
Rear parking sensors
High-speed alert system
Seat belt reminders for driver and front passenger
Higher variants also come equipped with side and curtain airbags, further enhancing occupant protection.
Variants and Pricing-
The Toyota Glanza is available in two primary variants:
G: The base variant that comes well-equipped with essential features.
V: The top-end variant that adds premium features like LED projector headlamps, 16-inch alloy wheels, and additional airbags.
Pricing for the Glanza starts from approximately ₹7.5 lakhs for the base G variant and goes up to around ₹9.5 lakhs for the top-end V variant (ex-showroom prices, may vary by location).
Toyota Advantage-
While the Glanza shares its DNA with the Maruti Suzuki Baleno, it comes with the added advantage of Toyota’s reputation for reliability and after-sales service.
Toyota offers a standard warranty of 3 years/100,000 km, which can be extended up to 5 years/220,000 km, providing additional peace of mind to buyers.
Moreover, Toyota’s service network, while not as extensive as Maruti Suzuki’s, is known for its quality and customer satisfaction. This could be a deciding factor for buyers who prioritize long-term ownership experience.
Competition and Market Position-
The Glanza competes in the premium hatchback segment against rivals like the Hyundai i20, Honda Jazz, and of course, its own sibling, the Maruti Suzuki Baleno.
While it may not offer significant differentiation in terms of features or performance compared to the Baleno, the Toyota badge and the promise of reliable service give it a unique position in the market.
Conclusion: A Reliable Choice in Premium Hatchbacks
The Toyota Glanza represents a smart choice for buyers looking for a reliable, feature-rich hatchback with the backing of a trusted global brand.
While it may not break new ground in terms of design or performance, it excels in areas that matter most to Indian consumers: fuel efficiency, comfort, and peace of mind.
Its strengths lie in its spacious interior, fuel-efficient engines, and the trust associated with the Toyota brand. For families or individuals seeking a premium hatchback that balances style, features, and reliability, the Glanza presents a compelling case.
The partnership between Toyota and Maruti Suzuki has resulted in a product that combines the best of both worlds – Maruti’s understanding of Indian market preferences and Toyota’s global quality standards.
As the automotive landscape evolves, with a growing emphasis on fuel efficiency and value for money, the Glanza is well-positioned to remain a strong contender in its segment.
In essence, the Toyota Glanza is more than just a rebadged Baleno; it’s a testament to how collaborations in the auto industry can result in products that offer enhanced value to consumers.
Whether you’re a young professional looking for your first premium car or a family seeking a reliable and comfortable hatchback, the Glanza deserves serious consideration in your car-buying journey.
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