Confused between Maruti Fronx & Baleno: Which one would be a better buy

Between the Fronx Delta Plus MT (1.2 NA) and the Baleno Alpha MT (1.2 NA), which one makes more practical sense for (70%-80%) city use and in what ways?

BHPian McQueen recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Hi, I am trying to figure out certain differences between the two vehicles, namely the Fronx Delta Plus MT (1.2 NA) and the Baleno Alpha MT (1.2 NA). I have a few questions: if you could clarify them, it would be great.

• Which vehicle has a better suspension feel? How does each vehicle feel and handle potholes, speed breakers, highways and cornering at slow and high speeds?
• Which vehicle is more planted and has less body roll at higher speeds, while cornering and during overtakes?
• Between the Fronx Delta Plus MT (1.2 NA) and the Baleno Alpha MT, which one makes more practical sense for (70%-80%) city use and in what ways? (Assume that some of the missing features like the rear parking camera will be installed on the Fronx Delta Plus.)

I read several reviews and everything but these questions keep bothering me. Found two comparisons, one on T-BHP and one on a different site, and they were contradictory.

Here's what GTO had to say about the matter:

I'd pick the Fronx over the Baleno. Even though it's priced at a pretty premium over the Baleno.

• I like the styling of the Fronx a lot more. It does look nice, especially that front end.
• The lovely 1.0L turbo-petrol is an option and comes with a nice MT gearbox or a proper 6-speed AT (no AMTs for me… ever).

Of course, the Baleno is value-for-money in comparison and if on a tight budget, then the Baleno is probably more suitable.

Here's what BHPian gt3t0uring had to say about the matter:

If you are only looking to buy the 1.2L K12 engine, hands down Baleno is the better buy. Zeta variant (priced similarly as the Delta+ Fronx) of the Baleno gets more features (keyless entry, rear wiper, better instrument cluster etc) and in my opinion, looks better as well. Fronx should be the option only if you want the booster jet engine and high ground clearance (can be managed if driven carefully).

Here's what BHPian silverado had to say about the matter:

I am guessing the reason for your comparison is the same price. If that's the case, then it boils down to what you want.

If its SUVish looks/ slightly higher suspension and GC then it's Fronx.

For everything else it's Baleno.

Personally, if my budget is set and these are the 2 variants to choose from, then I will go with Baleno Alpha MT since it's very well-kitted and you do need features to enjoy your car ownership for a long period of time.

Here's what BHPian 007maverick had to say about the matter:

I hope you have decided first to own Maruti.

Now coming to your questions:

• Fronx has a higher GC. So it's no no-brainer that it will relatively provide you with better comfort on potholes and speed breakers.
• Technically Higher GC means more roll. Hence the quality of Ride & Handling will be poor for such a vehicle on a relative basis.
• Don't decide on the new car -variant based on features like Reverse Camera. Evaluate it based on Build quality, Cabin aesthetics, inside space / legroom for passengers, Safety features, key features that add to great convenience such as gear knob, ABC ergonomics, auto climate control, cornering lamps, hand rests, Airbags.

Between the two, Fronx will be a notch better simply because it's a new Cabin, has easier egress - ingress and might fetch a better Resale value over Baleno if the SUV fever continues for some more time in the market.

I'd suggest you to also test drive the i20 and Honda Amaze as well. These are great cars if SUVs/Crossovers are not your genuine requirement and you would like to consider beyond Maruti.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.