Maruti Fronx vs Baleno: Whose top model offers more value?

The Maruti Fronx and Baleno are based on the same Heartect platform, but the former is a compact crossover while the latter a hatchback. In fact, with lot of parts sharing between both models, one can even consider the Fronx as a raised Baleno riding on stilts, which means buyers can inevitably end up cross shopping between the two. Looking specifically at their respective top variants, the key questions are straightforward. What powertrain options do they offer? How feature-rich are they? And how wide is the price gap between the two? Let's break it down across these key aspects before wrapping up with a conclusion.

Maruti Fronx Alpha vs Baleno Alpha: Specs

Maruti Fronx vs Baleno: Engine, gearbox and mileage
Nexa model	Fronx	Baleno
Variant	Alpha	Alpha
Engine	1L turbo petrol	1.2L naturally aspirated petrol
Cylinder count	3	4
Power	100hp	90hp
Torque	148Nm	113Nm
Gearbox	5MT/ 6AT	5MT/ 5AMT
Brand claimed mileage	21.5kpl (MT), 20.01kpl (AT)	22.35kpl (MT), 22.94kpl (AMT)

In this comparison, the Fronx’s Boosterjet turbo-petrol engine clearly has the upper hand, offering 10hp and 35Nm more. It also gets a more sophisticated torque converter automatic, compared to the Baleno's AMT. For those not in the know, this engine was first introduced in the Baleno RS, the sportier and short-lived version of the hatchback sold between 2017 and 2020. The Baleno is relatively short on engine out but when it comes to claimed fuel efficiency, it has an edge in both its manual and AMT versions.

Maruti Fronx Alpha vs Baleno Alpha: Features

Maruti Fronx vs Baleno: Exterior
Nexa model	Fronx	Baleno
Dual-tone paints	Optional	No
LED projector headlights	Yes	Yes
LED tail lamps	Yes, connected	Yes, not connected
Front fog lamps	No	Yes, LED
Chrome-finished door handles	No	Yes
Alloy wheels	16 inch	16 inch
Rear spoiler	Yes	Yes
ORVM-mounted indicators	Yes	Yes
Electrically foldable and adjustable ORVMs	Yes	Yes
Rear defogger	Yes	Yes
Antenna type	Shark fin	Stick
Rear wiper and washer	Yes	Yes

Despite sitting in a lower segment, the Maruti Baleno makes a strong case with features like front fog lamps and chrome door handles; the Fronx only counters with dual-tone paint options. LED projector headlamps, 16-inch alloy wheels, electrically adjustable and foldable ORVMs, and a rear wiper and washer are common to both.

Maruti Fronx vs Baleno: Interior
Nexa model	Fronx	Baleno
Dual-tone interior	Yes	Yes
Touchscreen	9 inch	9 inch
Android Auto/ Apple CarPlay	Wireless	Wireless
Speakers	6 (including 2 tweeters)	6 (including 2 tweeters)
Driver's display	Digital + analogue	Digital + analogue
Automatic climate control	Yes	Yes
Wireless charger	Yes	No
Cruise control	Yes	Yes
Head-up display	Yes	Yes
Push button start/ stop	Yes	Yes
Steering column adjustment	Tilt and telescopic	Tilt and telescopic
Paddle shifters	AT only	No
Front centre sliding armrest	Yes	Yes
Front footwell lights	Yes	Yes
Sunroof	No	No
Ventilated seats	No	No
60:40 split rear seats	Yes	Yes
Rear fast charging ports	Type A and C	Type A and C
Rear seat armrest	No	No
Rear AC vents	Yes	Yes
Rear defogger	Yes	Yes

Inside, the Baleno misses out on a wireless charger and paddle shifters, but otherwise, the two are closely matched on features. Neither offers a rear seat armrest, sunroof or ventilated seats, which feels like an omission given their premium positioning. 

Maruti Fronx vs Baleno: Safety
Nexa model	Fronx	Baleno
Airbags	6	6
360-degree camera	Yes	Yes
Auto dimming IRVM	Yes	Yes
ABD with EBD	Yes	Yes
ESP	Yes	Yes
Hill-hold assist	Yes	Yes
ISOFIX mounts	Yes	Yes

It's good to see that the safety suite of the Baleno matches that of the higher-stacked Fronx. While the Fronx is yet to be tested by Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (BNCAP), the Baleno secured a 4-star rating in June 2025.

Maruti Fronx Alpha vs Baleno Alpha: Price and verdict

Maruti Fronx vs Baleno: Ex-showroom prices (in Rs, lakh)
Nexa model	Fronx	Baleno
Alpha 1.2L MT	-	8.6
Alpha 1.2L AMT	-	9.1
Alpha 1L MT	10.56	-
Alpha 1L AT	11.84	-

The Baleno Alpha and Fronx Alpha follow different powertrain approaches, but in terms of features across exterior, interior and safety, both are pretty well equipped. The choice ultimately depends on what you want. If stronger performance is the priority, the Fronx is the clear pick, though it comes at a premium. Also working in its favour is the 20mm advantage in ground clearance at 190mm. On Indian roads, that extra height is never a bad thing. It gives you a bit more confidence over broken patches and speed breakers, and the slightly taller stance can also make getting in and out that little bit easier. If budget is crucial, the Baleno stands out as the more affordable option, and it is also backed by its BNCAP rating. Lastly, the hatchback edges ahead on claimed fuel efficiency, something a budget-conscious buyer may appreciate. 

from Autocar India https://ift.tt/m5u67hs