Toyota Glanza

Toyota has worked extensively to make the Glanza seem a little different from the Baleno in its latest avatar. There are new and eye-catching headlights with L-shaped LED DRLs (daytime running lights). There is a chrome band linking them, making the car appear wider than before, while also giving the front fascia more of a Toyota Camry Hybrid influence. There is a bull-horn touch near the air dam I front which is a bold touch, while the carbon fibre design is another masterstroke. The car gets decent chrome treatment for a flashier look and feel, while there are now 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels as well. The rear and sides remain absolutely similar to the Maruti Suzuki Baleno. The Glanza is slightly shorter and smaller, although the wheelbase remains the same. 

The Toyota Glanza now gets refurbished interiors, with a brand new dashboard and premium components. The black and beige theme looks refined, while adding a sophisticated touch to the interiors. Siler and piano black highlights make for a nice touch, along with the flat-bottomed steering wheel, the brand new free-standing infotainment touch screen, and the new climate control setup. The biggest attraction is a 9-inch touch screen infotainment unit with voice commands, Apple CarPlay, and connected car technologies through the smartphone app. There is a top-notch Arkamys audio system. 

However, there are still a few niggles, i.e. the lack of good visibility at some angles, an excessively reflective screen, and moderate sound output which lacks the thump that you would expect. Ergonomics are top-notch and you can find the right position easily with the telescopic and tilt steering, in tandem with several seat adjustment options. The cushioning is excessively soft for the seats however, and it may lead to some aches and pains while covering long distances. There is sizable space at the back, although tall passengers may not always be really comfortable. The seat width could also have been a little more, making it suitable for three people rather than two, which is the case at present. However, the Glanza now gets rear charging and air conditioning vents. Boot space has come down to 318 litres from 339 litres earlier. The high-set boot lip makes loading and unloading luggage something of a workout. There is a 360-degree camera which helps while parking in narrow/tight zones. Toyota also has a retractable HUD (heads-up display) which comes out from the dashboard. The Glanza also gets more safety features than before, although features like wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and wireless charging are missing, along with a sunroof. 

Toyota has also taken steps in the right direction by equipping the Glanza with new safety kit such as ESP, hill-start assist and six airbags. 

The Toyota Glanza comes with a 9 inch touch screen infotainment unit with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, connected car technologies (app-based) and voice commands, in tandem with an Arkamys sound system. There is also a 360-degree camera, along with a retractable HUD (heads-up-display), which comes out from the dashboard. 

The K12N petrol engine in the Glanza churns out 90 hp and 113 Nm of maximum torque. There is no CVT unit anymore and a 5-speed AMT slots into the picture now. This enhances fuel economy greatly for the automatic variant. There is also a 5-speed manual transmission unit which is more efficient than before. The four cylinder engine is one of the punchiest in the segment, offering a sporty-enough experience in the city while the overall feel is refined and quiet. The performance may be a little toned-down in the current avatar, although crank the throttle, and it will engage responsively, with another lease of life after 4,500 RPM, and a pleasing engine note. 

The manual gearbox is super-smooth and the hydraulic clutch is extremely light, making the overall experience seamless for drivers. The 5-speed AMT may have its share of detractors, considering how most rivals have CVT and dual-clutch options in the category. The AMT helps achieve the best possible gear swiftly for maximum efficiency. It works well amidst light traffic conditions although higher traffic may hinder the possibilities of maintaining consistent speeds.