The Maruti Suzuki Baleno and Tata Punch are two vehicles that compete against each other despite belonging to different segments. They’re similarly priced and have their own unique features that appeal to different types of customers. While the Baleno is an established premium hatchback from Maruti Suzuki, the Punch is a relatively new entrant from Tata Motors, and is a compact SUV.
With the base variant prices of both models starting at around Rs. 6 lakh, the rivalry between the brands and their models is evident, as they try to attract buyers with their unique value propositions.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno vs Tata Punch: Dimensions
| Parameter | Maruti Suzuki Baleno | Tata Punch |
| Length (mm) | 3,990 mm | 3827 mm |
| Width (mm) | 1,745 mm | 1742 mm |
| Height (mm) | 1.500 mm | 1615 mm |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2,520 mm | 2445 mm |
| Boot Space (L) | 318 L | 366 L |
| Ground clearance (mm) | 170 mm | 187 mm |
The Baleno is significantly longer than the Punch, and also has a 75 mm longer wheelbase which means the premium hatchback has more legroom than the compact SUV. The Baleno also marginally goes past the Punch in terms of width. On the other hand, the Punch is naturally taller than the Baleno, keeping in mind it’s SUV-inspired looks, thus providing more headroom and a greater sense of road presence.
The Punch also has a higher ground clearance and a larger boot space than the Baleno, making it more suitable for rough roads, providing better visibility and luggage capacity. However, being taller in height, the Punch can experience slightly more body roll on curves.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno vs Tata Punch: Engine and Transmission
| Parameter | Maruti Suzuki Baleno | Tata Punch |
| Engine options (l) | 1.2-litre petrol | 1.2-litre petrol |
| Transmission options | 5 speed manual | 5 speed AMT | 5 speed manual | 5 speed AMT |
| Power (Ps) | 89.7 | 87.8 |
| Torque (Nm) | 113 | 115 |
| Mileage | 19.56-21 kmpl (Petrol), 30.61 km/kg (CNG) | 18.09-20.9 kmpl (Petrol) |
The Baleno boasts a slightly more potent engine compared to the Punch, yet it maintains an excellent fuel efficiency without compromise. In terms of performance, the Punch isn’t quite ‘punchy’ when compared to the Baleno, owing to the lower torque-to-weight-ratio. In terms of the available engine and gearbox options, both the Punch and Baleno get a naturally aspirated 1.2L engine mated with a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed AMT automatic. The Baleno however, gets a more refined AMT transmission when compared to the Punch’s AMT. The Maruti hatchback also offers both CNG options, something Punch misses out on. Cabin noise and overall vibration in the Baleno are also much lower than Punch due to its better refined engine.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno vs Tata Punch: Features and Comfort
| Feature | Maruti Suzuki Baleno | Tata Punch |
| Infotainment System | 9-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay | 7-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay |
| Music System | Up to 4 speakers and 2 tweeters | Up to 4 speakers and 2 tweeters |
| Climate Control | Automatic | Automatic |
| Ventilated Seats | Not available | Not available |
| Adjustable Steering | Tilt and Telescopic | Tilt |
| Drive Modes | Not available | Available (Eco and City) |
| Instrument Cluster | Analog | Digital |
| Sunroof | Not available | Not available |
| Adjustable Seats (Manual or Electric) | Manual | Manual |
| Rear AC Vents | Yes | No |
| 60:40 Rear Seat Split | Yes | Yes |
| Cruise Control | Yes | Yes |
The features and comfort of both cars are not very different in terms of functionality and quality. Both cars offer similar levels of technology. The Baleno has a surround sound system powered by ARKAMYS which improves the sound quality by quite a bit and has different settings to suit your music needs.
While the Tata Punch does not get a head-up display (HUD) like the Baleno does, it does receive drive modes that adapt the performance based on the scenario. However, the Punch also gets a digital instrument cluster over the analog cluster found in the Baleno. It further boils down to what you require out of the car, and your personal preferences while making a decision.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno vs Tata Punch: Safety Features
| Feature | Maruti Suzuki Baleno | Tata Punch |
| GNCAP safety ratings | Not tested | 5 star |
| Airbags | Dual front airbags, up to 6 airbags | Dual front airbags as standard |
| ABS with EBD | Available | Available |
| ESC | Available | Available |
| Traction control | Not available | Available (3 traction modes) |
| Automatic headlamps | Available in top-end variant | Available |
| Rain sensing wipers | Available in top-end variant | Available |
| Hill hold assist | Available in top-end variant | Not Available |
| Hill descent control | Not available | Available |
| Rear sensors | Available in top-end variant | Available |
| Rear parking camera | Available in top-end variant | Available |
| ISOFIX child seat anchor points | Available | Available |
| ADAS | Not available | Not Available |
Both the cars are bundled with similar safety features, but the 5-star GNCAP safety rating of the Tata Punch highlights its safe chassis. The Maruti Suzuki Baleno is yet to be tested in Global NCAP tests. It is speculated that the “next gen” facelift of the Baleno can achieve a much better rating than the current generation, as it ships with a total of 6 airbags in the top variant with much improved crumple zones.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno vs Tata Punch: Price Comparison
| Variant | Maruti Suzuki Baleno | Tata Punch |
| Base | Rs. 6.56 lakh | Rs. 6 Lakh |
| Mid | Rs. 6.69 lakh | Rs. 7.45 Lakh |
| Upper mid | Rs. 7.48 lakh | Rs. 8.25 Lakh |
| Top | Rs. 9.83 lakh | Rs. 9.47 Lakh |
The Baleno has more variants than the Punch, and allows for more choices and customization options to suit different budgets and preferences. However, the variants of both cars are not very different in terms of features and specifications when compared head to head. Though, one thing to note is that the Maruti Suzuki Baleno has costlier base and top variants while the Punch has costly mid variants.
Summary
Both, the Maruti Suzuki Baleno and Tata Punch are two popular cars in the Indian market, offering similar features, performance, mileage, comfort, and space. However, there are some differences that might make one car better than the other depending on your preferences and needs.
If you’re in the market looking for a car with good fuel efficiency, more customization options and decent legroom for rear passengers, all the while having the looks of a premium hatchback, then the Maruti Suzuki Baleno is the right choice for you. However, if you prioritize practicality and safety, prefer rugged looking cars, and don’t mind a slightly lesser fuel efficiency (only considering petrol options), the Tata Punch is the car you should choose.
