Automobile Desk: There has always been a demand for premium hatchback vehicles in the Indian automobile market. In this segment, Maruti Suzuki's Baleno and Hyundai's i20 are two such vehicles, between which there is a constant tough competition. In recent times, facelift updates and addition of new features have increased the challenge for the customers to choose which of the two cars is more economical and better.
Talking about design and changes, Maruti has given a new and attractive look to Baleno. New experiments have been done in its front grille, bumper and headlights. Apart from this, the interior of the vehicle has also got a new look, which includes modern infotainment system, better safety package and refined engine. Maruti sells this premium car through its Nexa dealership network. On the other hand, Hyundai i20 has been the first choice among the youth for a long time due to its sporty looks, cabin comfort and modern features.
In terms of sales, even though the trend of compact SUV vehicles has increased rapidly in the Indian market, the hatchback segment has its own place. There is often a surge in demand for these vehicles around the festive season. Tata Altroz is also a big option in this segment, but the main competition is seen between Baleno and i20.
To understand the finance and monthly installment (EMI) figures of both the cars, their initial i.e. base variants can be compared. Keeping in mind the 'Sigma Petrol MT' variants of Maruti Baleno and '1.2 Kappa Petrol MT Era' variants of Hyundai i20, if the loan is taken at the full ex-showroom price, then a rough estimate comes out. If the interest rate is considered to be 9.5 percent per annum and the loan tenure is kept at 3 years i.e. 36 months, then the monthly installment of the base variant of Baleno comes to around Rs 19,537. On the same criteria, the EMI of the base model of Hyundai i20 is around Rs 19,210.
If we look at the monthly installment, the EMI of i20 seems to be less by about Rs 327 compared to Baleno. However, this difference is not so big that a direct decision can be taken in favor of any one vehicle. This amount of EMI depends on many other things during the actual purchase. How much down payment you deposit while buying the car, at what interest rate the bank is giving you the loan, what is the tenure of the loan and which city or dealership you are buying the car from – all these factors can cause slight changes in your final installment. Apart from this, offers and discounts received from the showroom can also change this calculation.
