1.5 Years with Toyota Glanza: The Toyota Glanza, a badge-engineered version of the Maruti Baleno, has been gaining popularity among Indian buyers for its value-for-money (VFM) proposition, fuel efficiency, and comfortable driving experience. BHPian coding_freak99 recently shared his first-hand ownership review on Team-BHP after driving his Glanza S model for 1.5 years and clocking 18,000 kilometers. This review not only provides insights into the vehicle’s real-world performance but also reflects the practicality and economy the car offers, especially for first-time car owners.
For a first car, expectations are often a mix of excitement and practicality. In this case, the Toyota Glanza seems to have struck a perfect balance. With the backing of Toyota’s brand reliability and the proven Maruti Suzuki platform, the Glanza S variant ticks all the right boxes—low maintenance, good mileage, modern features, and an overall user-friendly nature. Santhosh, a Bangalore-based software engineer, acquired the car through a company lease policy and took delivery from Nandi Toyota, Whitefield. The process was smooth, with delivery wrapped up within 30 minutes.
From the start, the Glanza has impressed with its comfort-oriented suspension setup, effortless steering, and frugal engine. Over 18,000 kilometers, it has performed reliably across city commutes and highway drives alike. This review takes a deeper look into the specifications, features, performance, and every aspect that makes the Glanza a solid choice in the premium hatchback segment.
Also read: MG Astor Turbo 2,000 KM Review
Overview of the Toyota Glanza S Variant
Launch Date and Background
The Toyota Glanza was launched in India in 2019 and got a major update in 2022. The version discussed here is the 2023 model, acquired under a corporate lease policy in August 2023. It shares its underpinnings, engine, and design elements with the Maruti Suzuki Baleno but features minor cosmetic and branding differences.
Specifications Toyota Glanza S Variant (2023 Model)
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.2L K-Series Dual Jet Petrol |
| Power Output | 89 BHP @ 6,000 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm @ 4,400 RPM |
| Transmission | 5-speed Manual |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| Mileage (Claimed) | 22.35 km/l |
| Mileage (Real-World Avg.) | 17-19 km/l |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Boot Space | 318 Litres |
| Infotainment | 7-inch Touchscreen (SmartPlay) |
| Safety Features | Dual Airbags, ABS with EBD |
| Wheels | Steel Rims with Wheel Covers |
| Price (Ex-Showroom) | ~INR 6.86 Lakhs (as of Aug 2023) |
Features of the Glanza S
- Infotainment: Comes with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
- Comfort & Convenience: Manual AC, power windows, electrically adjustable ORVMs.
- Safety: Dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors.
- Exterior: Clean front grille with Toyota badging, halogen headlamps, and chrome accents.
- Interior: Dual-tone interiors, adjustable headrests, and a clean dashboard layout.
Performance and Driving Experience
Over the span of 1.5 years and 18,000 km, the owner has consistently experienced the Glanza as a smooth and fuel-efficient city commuter. The car excels in urban traffic due to its light steering and compact turning radius. On highways, the Glanza cruises comfortably at 100 km/h with minimal engine strain.
Acceleration is linear and suitable for relaxed driving. While it may not be the quickest in its segment, the Glanza prioritizes comfort and economy. Noise insulation is decent, and the clutch and gear shifts are light and easy to operate—ideal for first-time car owners.
Design and Styling
The Glanza S maintains a balanced and understated design. Unlike the top-end variants that come with alloy wheels and LED DRLs, the S variant is more utilitarian in its approach, which contributes to its affordability.
Exterior Highlights:
- Body-colored bumpers and ORVMs
- Signature Toyota grille
- Halogen headlamps
- 15-inch steel wheels
Interior Highlights:
- Spacious cabin with ample legroom and headroom
- Dual-tone upholstery
- Basic but functional dashboard layout
- Decent boot space for weekend trips
Ownership Experience
Service & Maintenance
Servicing the Glanza has been a hassle-free experience. Toyota’s service network in Bangalore is robust, and the first few services were complimentary under the company lease agreement. The car’s parts and servicing costs are economical, as they are shared with the Baleno.
Mileage & Running Costs
The Glanza consistently returns 17-19 km/l in mixed driving conditions. With petrol prices in Bangalore being on the higher side, the car proves to be light on the pocket. Its efficient 1.2L engine and tuning help maximize mileage without sacrificing performance.
Practicality & Usability
The Glanza serves as a dependable daily driver. It’s easy to park, maneuver through traffic, and offers decent rear-seat space for passengers. Boot space is adequate for city runs and short vacations.
1.5 Years with Toyota Glanza Conclusion
After 1.5 years of ownership, the Toyota Glanza S continues to impress as a practical and reliable hatchback for daily use. It is particularly well-suited for first-time car buyers and those looking for a low-maintenance, fuel-efficient vehicle. While it may not offer flashy features or high-end performance, it scores high on essentials—comfort, efficiency, and peace of mind.
The choice of the S variant reflects the owner’s emphasis on value rather than frills. And in this aspect, the Glanza delivers handsomely. With Toyota’s badge reliability and Maruti’s cost-effective engineering, it offers a compelling package.
From the delivery experience at Nandi Toyota to everyday city commutes, the Glanza has been a smooth companion. Its predictable behavior on the road and pocket-friendly upkeep make it ideal for young professionals and small families alike.
Given its current condition even after 18,000 km, the Glanza seems ready for many more miles. Its consistent performance reinforces the trust Indian customers have placed in this platform.
For anyone considering a budget-friendly, efficient hatchback, the Toyota Glanza S stands out as a top contender—especially when long-term value and reliability are key considerations.
1.5 Years with Toyota Glanza FAQs
1. Is the Toyota Glanza good for first-time car buyers?
Yes, the Toyota Glanza is an excellent choice for first-time buyers. It offers reliable performance, low maintenance, and is easy to drive in both city and highway conditions.
2. What mileage can I expect from the Toyota Glanza in real-world conditions?
In real-world driving, owners typically get 17-19 km/l, depending on traffic, driving style, and terrain. This is close to the ARAI-claimed mileage of 22.35 km/l.
3. How does the Glanza compare to the Maruti Baleno?
Mechanically, both cars are identical. However, the Glanza offers Toyota’s extended warranty packages and is sold through Toyota dealerships, which are known for service quality.
4. What are the main drawbacks of the Glanza S variant?
The S variant lacks some premium features like alloy wheels, LED lights, and advanced infotainment options. However, these trade-offs make it more affordable and budget-friendly.
5. Is the Toyota Glanza expensive to maintain?
Not at all. The Glanza shares most parts with the Maruti Baleno, making spares readily available and cost-effective. Toyota’s service costs are also competitive in this segment.
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