Premium Hatchback Battle: Toyota Glanza or Hyundai i20? Let’s Find Out

Introduction
Choosing a premium hatchback today means being spoiled for choice. Two of the most talked-about models in this segment are the Toyota Glanza and the Hyundai i20. While both cars deliver stylish designs, advanced features, and strong brand value, they cater to slightly different audiences. Whether you’re after smooth daily drives, sporty handling, or high-end tech, this comparison will help you decide. Let’s dig deep into the performance, features, design, and value to answer the pressing question: Toyota Glanza Vs i20: Which Car Is Better?

Design and Road Presence
The Toyota Glanza is sleek and classy. Its updated front grille with chrome touches, LED projector headlamps, and refined proportions give it a modern yet elegant look. It’s more about understated charm than aggressive design.

In contrast, the Hyundai i20 is bold and sporty. The wide cascading grille, sharp LED DRLs, and sculpted body panels give it a strong road presence. With dual-tone options and 16-inch alloy wheels, the i20 is clearly designed to catch the eye of younger drivers.

So, if you prefer a car with a mature, premium look, the Glanza fits the bill. For a sportier, edgier appearance, the i20 is your pick.

Interior Experience and Cabin Quality
Step into the Glanza, and you’re welcomed by a dual-tone dashboard with soft-touch elements, a user-friendly layout, and a spacious feel. The build quality is solid, and Toyota’s attention to detail is evident. Features like the leather-wrapped steering wheel, 9-inch touchscreen, and head-up display enhance the cabin’s upmarket appeal.

The i20, on the other hand, offers a more futuristic dashboard design with digital elements. The black and red dual-tone interiors (in selected trims) look sporty. Its 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system is one of the largest in the segment. While the cabin feels high-tech, some plastic materials don’t feel as refined as expected at this price point.

Glanza focuses on clean design and comfort, while the i20 leans toward tech-loaded flash.

Engine and Performance
Toyota Glanza is powered by a 1.2L Dual Jet petrol engine that delivers 89 bhp and 113 Nm of torque. It’s tuned for smooth and efficient driving, especially in urban settings. The engine is paired with a 5-speed manual or an AMT gearbox, which performs seamlessly in day-to-day use.

Hyundai i20 offers more variety. You get a 1.2L petrol engine (88 bhp), a 1.0L turbo-petrol (120 bhp), and even a diesel in older variants. The turbo engine, paired with a DCT or iMT gearbox, is especially impressive for enthusiasts who crave performance. The naturally aspirated version competes closely with Glanza but feels slightly less refined.

If you want spirited performance and gearbox options like DCT, the i20 is the winner. For comfort, refinement, and everyday ease, the Glanza delivers better.

Mileage and Efficiency
Toyota Glanza leads in fuel efficiency, with 22.3 kmpl (manual) and 22.9 kmpl (AMT), as per ARAI figures. It’s one of the most fuel-efficient cars in its class, thanks to its lightweight Heartect platform and smart hybrid system in select variants.

The i20 offers decent mileage too, with around 19–20 kmpl for the 1.2L petrol and 20+ kmpl for the diesel. The turbo-petrol variant, while fun, delivers a lower real-world mileage of around 16–17 kmpl.

If fuel efficiency is high on your priority list, Glanza is a smarter bet.

Driving Comfort and Handling
Toyota Glanza offers a relaxed driving experience. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and potholes effortlessly. It’s especially pleasant for city commutes and long drives, thanks to its smooth steering and quiet cabin.

Hyundai i20 is more responsive, especially in the turbo variant. The steering feels tighter, and the suspension offers better feedback at higher speeds. It’s more fun to drive on twisty roads and highways. However, the ride quality can feel slightly firm over broken roads.

If you want ease and comfort, go with Glanza. If you love driving and want more control and thrill, the i20 makes more sense.

Features and Technology
The Glanza is packed with features like a 9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, connected car tech via Toyota i-Connect, auto climate control, head-up display, rear AC vents, and push-button start. It also offers a 360-degree camera and tilt-and-telescopic steering in top trims.

The i20 ups the ante with a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, Bose premium audio, sunroof, ambient lighting, and wireless charging. It also offers digital instrument cluster, connected car features via Hyundai Bluelink, and an air purifier in some trims.

If high-end tech and in-cabin entertainment are priorities, the i20 leads. But if you want practical, premium features and better infotainment usability, Glanza delivers just right.

Safety and Build Quality
The i20 comes with six airbags (top variants), ESC, hill assist, and ISOFIX mounts. Hyundai claims strong structural integrity though it hasn’t undergone Global NCAP testing in India.

The Glanza offers six airbags in higher variants, 360-degree camera, ESC, and ISOFIX child seat anchors. However, it’s based on Suzuki’s Heartect platform, which is lightweight but may not be as robust in crash safety as i20.

While both offer modern safety tech, the i20 may have a slight edge in build quality and structural strength.

Pricing and Value
Toyota Glanza starts at ₹6.86 lakh and goes up to ₹9.99 lakh (ex-showroom), offering great value considering its features, warranty (3 years/1,00,000 km), and low maintenance costs.

Hyundai i20 starts at around ₹7.04 lakh and can go beyond ₹11 lakh for the turbo variants. It’s more expensive but offers better performance options and luxury features.

For value-conscious buyers, Glanza wins with its combination of features and peace of mind. The i20 suits those ready to spend more for extra power and flair.

Service and Ownership Experience
Toyota is known for its reliability and fuss-free ownership. The Glanza benefits from a wide Maruti-Toyota service network and affordable maintenance. Toyota’s service experience is consistent and praised by most customers.

Hyundai offers an extensive service network too, and their customer support is top-notch. However, service costs can be slightly higher, especially for the turbo variants.

If long-term ownership cost is your concern, Glanza edges ahead.

Conclusion
Both the Toyota Glanza and Hyundai i20 are excellent hatchbacks, but they shine in different areas. The i20 is ideal for those who want a sporty design, powerful performance, and rich features. On the other hand, the Glanza is built for those who prioritize reliability, comfort, mileage, and long-term value.

So, when you ask Toyota Glanza Vs i20: Which Car Is Better, the answer depends on what you expect from your car. For thrill-seekers and tech lovers, the i20 is a tempting pick. But for smart buyers looking for peace of mind and daily practicality, Glanza remains a top choice.