Maruti Baleno RS vs Volkswagen Polo GT [COMPARED!]

The Indian car market might not be big on performance hatchbacks. However, the demand for sportier, more powerful cars has been steadily growing. The VW Polo GT and the addition of the Fiat Punto Abarth and Ford Figo 1.5 are proof enough that there exists sufficient demand for such products. Maruti has now jumped into the fray with the launch of the Baleno RS. Armed with a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, the hot version of the popular hatchback targets the Volkswagen Polo GT TSI. Read our Maruti Baleno RS vs Volkswagen Polo GT comparison to find how they stack up against each other. ALSO SEE- Maruti Baleno RS Test Drive Review

Also See – Upcoming Maruti Cars in India | Maruti Baleno | Volkswagen Polo GTI

Maruti Baleno RS vs Volkswagen Polo GT Price Comparison

The Baleno RS goes on sale in the top-end Alpha trim only. It has a sticker price of Rs 8.69 Lakh (ex-showroom, New Delhi).

While the Baleno RS does have an upper hand in the pricing department, there doesn’t exist a huge price gap. The GT TSI is less than 50 grand more and offers you an excellent 7-speed DSG automatic.

Also See – Maruti Baleno RS vs Baleno | Maruti Baleno RS vs Fiat Abarth Punto | Maruti Baleno RS vs Ford Figo 1.5

Maruti Baleno RS vs Volkswagen Polo GT Specifications

Powering the Balneo RS is an all-new 1.0-litre petrol that, thanks to turbocharging, puts out a max power of 100 bhp and a peak torque of 150 Nm. Internationally, this engine comes with a choice of either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic and makes around 112 BHP and 170 Nm. We get only the 5-speed manual. The Volkswagen Polo GT TSI gets a 1.2-litre turbo petrol motor that is good for 105 PS and 175 Nm. This one gets a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission. No manual transmission option or paddle shifters on offer, which might put off some purists. The Polo GT TSI further benefits from Electronic Stability Control.

Also See – Maruti Baleno vs Volkswagen Polo

Maruti Baleno RS vs Volkswagen Polo GT Dimensions

In terms of exterior dimensions, both cars are identical to their respective standard versions.

The Maruti Baleno has more cabin space. The rear seat of the Polo GT is a bit cramped and its boot isn’t as generous as the Baleno’s. However, if its practicality you’re looking for, chances are you won’t be looking to buy these cars.

Maruti Baleno RS vs Volkswagen Polo GT Mileage Comparison

Claimed mileage of Baleno RS is 21.1 kpl. VW’s Polo GT TSI boasts an ARAI certified mileage of 17.21 km/l. However, These are figures obtained under test conditions. Real world figures will vary.

Maruti Baleno RS vs Volkswagen GT Features Comparison

Much like the Polo GT that is based on the top-end Highline trim of the Polo, the Baleno RS also available only in the top-end Alpha trim. This means both cars come fairly loaded with features. Maruti Baleno RS gets certain extra features such as projector headlamps, LED daytime running lights, LED tail lamps and more. However, it misses out on certain features such as a cooled glovebox, cornering lamps, cruise control, all of which are part of the Polo GT’s equipment list.

Maruti Baleno RS vs Volkswagen Polo GT Design Comparison – Exterior

There are subtle differences between the exteriors of the standard Polo and the GT variants. These include GT badging on the grille, black ORVMs and black rear spoiler. Also, there is ‘GT’ badging on the C-pillars and boot lid. Apart from that, the Polo GT is the same smart looking European hatchback that has been around for a while now. In order to set it apart from the standard car, the Baleno RS features new front and rear bumpers, additions such as side skirts and black alloy wheels. Picking between the two is really up to the buyer and based on his/her preferences.

Maruti Baleno RS vs Volkswagen Polo GT – Interior

The Polo GT’s interiors get an all-black treatment, unlike the standard car’s black-beige. You get a neatly laid out dashboard with all the essentials and high-quality materials. The highlight here is the tasty flat-bottomed steering wheel. In terms of space, the Polo GT isn’t as generous as the Baleno RS, though. There aren’t any major changes to the interiors of the Baleno RS. It carries the same all-black good quality interiors. As is the case with the exteriors, the cabin of the Polo GT is simple and elegant while that of the Baleno is relatively more radical.

Maruti Baleno RS vs Volkswagen Polo GT Comparison – Verdict

The Volkswagen Polo GT is already quite popular amongst those looking for that little bit of extra performance from their standard hatchback. We will have to wait and see if these buyers move away from the trusted Polo GT towards the newbie that is the Maruti Baleno RS. A lot of it comes down to the price.

• Price – The Baleno RS is slightly cheaper than the Polo. However, the Polo comes with an excellent 7 speed DSG auto ‘box as standard.
• Specifications – The Baleno RS’s 1.0-litre Boosterjet engine is slightly less powerful than the Polo GT TSI’s 1.2 L petrol. It also produces lesser torque. Also, the Baleno comes with a 5-speed manual. Polo GT TSI gets a 7-speed DSG.
• Features – Maruti has packed the Baleno RS with features. The Volkswagen Polo GT is fairly well equipped.
• Design – Looks are a matter of personal taste so we will leave this one up to you. At the end of the day, it comes down to the simple and elegant lines of the Polo versus the relatively radical styling of the Maruti Baleno.

What do you think of our Maruti Baleno RS vs Volkswagen Polo GT comparison? Do let us know via the comments section below. And stay tuned to Car Blog India for more updates on the Maruti Baleno RS vs Volkswagen Polo GT comparison.