Battle of the AMTs: Tata Altroz Creative S vs Maruti Baleno Alpha

 2025 Tata Altroz Creative S AMT vs Maruti Baleno Alpha AMT: Which Premium Hatchback Should You Buy?

Tata has rolled out the 2025 version of the Altroz, and a major highlight this time is the addition of an AMT (automated manual transmission) option. This gearbox is available in the top-end ‘Creative S’ variant, which is priced at ₹9.65 lakh (ex-showroom). On the other hand, if you look at competitors, the Maruti Baleno Alpha AMT also fully loaded comes in slightly higher at ₹9.92 lakh. So, which one should you go for? Let’s break down the key differences to help you decide.

Under the hood, both hatchbacks are powered by 1.2-litre petrol engines. The Altroz produces 87 bhp and 115 Nm of torque at 4400 rpm, while the Baleno delivers a slightly higher 88 bhp but a bit lower torque at 113 Nm, which kicks in earlier at 3250 rpm. Interestingly, both Tata and Maruti are offering the AMT for the first time on these particular models—the Altroz and the Baleno.

When it comes to features, the Baleno Alpha offers a pretty rich package. It includes a 360-degree camera, head-up display (HUD), automatic climate control, wireless smartphone mirroring, rear AC vents, push-button start, wireless charger, and a complete LED lighting setup. Meanwhile, the Altroz Creative S isn’t far behind and brings in some exclusive highlights like paddle shifters, ambient lighting, dual digital displays, an electrically operated sunroof, and a cooled glovebox alongside rear AC vents, push start, and a 360-degree camera.

If you compare the two side by side, the Baleno gets an edge with its alloy wheels and HUD, while the Altroz scores points for its sunroof and digital screens. On the safety front, both models are evenly matched, offering six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP, and ISOFIX child seat mounts.

Size-wise, both cars are almost neck and neck, with only small differences in width and wheelbase. The interior room is very comparable too, though the Altroz edges out slightly with a larger boot capacity of 345 litres, as opposed to the Baleno’s 318 litres.

In the end, your choice will likely come down to your personal preferences whether you lean toward tech features like HUD and wireless charging (Baleno) or prefer a sunroof and dual screens (Altroz). Either way, both hatchbacks offer solid value for their price.