Toyota Glanza Review: The Awesome Hatchback is Here
Introduction: Go Hatchin’, Go Awesome
The Toyota Glanza arrives as a cool, tech-savvy hatchback designed to dive into adventure with an awesome style statement. It blends Toyota’s renowned promise of quality and service with a package full of advanced features. The Glanza is engineered for the modern driver, offering a connected experience through the Toyota i-Connect platform, impressive in-car technology like a Head-Up Display and a 360-degree camera, and a comfortable, classy cabin. Priced to compete in the heart of the premium hatchback segment, the Glanza delivers an intuitive and hassle-free ownership experience, backed by an extensive service network and the promise of awesome performance.
Design: Make an Awesome Style Statement
The Glanza’s design is sporty and sophisticated. The front fascia is defined by the Toyota signature upper grille and a sporty front bumper featuring a carbon fibre texture. Illumination is handled by modern LED projector headlamps with DRLs and LED fog lamps, ensuring a sharp and clear view. The side profile is enhanced with auto ORVMs with integrated turn indicators, while the rear features striking LED tail lamps. The addition of UV Cut Glasses is a premium touch that protects occupants from harsh sunlight. Optional accessories like grill garnishes and skid plates allow for further personalization.
The cabin greets you with a classy dual-tone interior that feels both modern and comfortable. The driver-focused cockpit features a tilt & telescopic steering wheel with audio controls for an ergonomic driving experience. Comfort is prioritized with features like rear AC vents, a push start/stop button, and auto AC. An ambient footwell lamp adds a touch of sophistication, while a rear USB port ensures passengers stay charged and connected.
Exterior Design:
Sporty and signature Toyota grille, LED projector headlamps, and a carbon fibre textured bumper create a dynamic look.
Interior Design:
Classy dual-tone theme with rear AC vents, push-button start, and a driver-focused tilt & telescopic steering.
Performance: The Promise of Awesome
The Glanza is powered by the proven and efficient 1.2L K-Series Engine, designed to deliver a peppy and responsive driving experience perfect for city commutes and highway runs. The engine can be paired with either a smooth manual transmission or an Intelligent Gear Shift (AMT) for clutchless convenience. For enhanced fuel economy, the Glanza features an Idle Stop/Start system that automatically switches off the engine at a standstill. The driving experience is made even more relaxing and convenient with the inclusion of Cruise Control, a feature that makes long-distance travel a breeze.
Powertrain Options:
1.2L K-Series Petrol Engine with Manual or AMT options, plus an available E-CNG variant for maximum efficiency.
Driving Dynamics:
Cruise Control and Idle Stop/Start provide a smooth, hassle-free, and economical drive.
Fuel Efficiency: Intuitively Awesome
Efficiency is at the core of the Glanza’s appeal. The K-Series engine, combined with the Idle Stop/Start technology, delivers impressive fuel economy figures. The manual transmission variant achieves a claimed mileage of 22.35 km/l, while the AMT version is even more frugal at 22.94 km/l. For those seeking the lowest possible running costs, the Glanza is also available in an E-CNG variant, further enhancing its reputation as a practical and economical choice for daily driving.
Technology: Simply Awesome Features
The Glanza is loaded with in-car technology designed to delight. The centerpiece is the 22.86 cm Smart Playcast infotainment system, which serves as the hub for entertainment and connectivity. A standout feature in this segment is the Head-Up Display (HUD), which projects vital information onto the windshield, allowing the driver to keep their eyes on the road. The system also integrates with “Hello Google” and “Hey Siri” voice assistants. The Toyota i-Connect suite offers over 45 connected car features, including remote lock/unlock, Find My Car, and vehicle status checks, all accessible via your smartphone or smartwatch.
Infotainment:
22.86 cm Smart Playcast with voice assistant support and a segment-first Head-Up Display.
Toyota i-Connect:
45+ connected features including remote control, vehicle tracking, and service reminders via smartphone.
Safety: Intuitively Awesome Protection
Toyota places a high priority on safety, and the Glanza is equipped with an impressive suite of features to protect its occupants. It comes with up to 6 SRS Airbags for comprehensive crash protection. The safety package is headlined by advanced features like a 360-Degree View Camera, which provides a bird’s-eye view of the car for confident parking in tight spaces. For drivers tackling inclines, Hill-Hold Control prevents the car from rolling backward on a slope. The connected services also add a layer of security with features like Auto Collision Notification, SOS Emergency Call, and Stolen Vehicle Tracking.
Passive Safety:
Up to 6 airbags ensure a safe cabin environment for all occupants.
Active Safety:
360-Degree Camera and Hill-Hold Control provide advanced driver assistance and confidence.
Variants and Value: Awesome Advantages
The Toyota Glanza is structured to provide awesome value across its variants. The ownership experience is a key advantage, with Toyota offering an extensive warranty of up to 3 years/1,00,000 km, which can be extended to 5 years/2,20,000 km. This is complemented by 24-hour roadside assistance and the promise of Express Maintenance in just 60 minutes. With a Pan-India network of 650 touchpoints across 362 cities, service and support are always within reach. The lineup includes manual and AMT options for the petrol engine, alongside a highly economical E-CNG variant, ensuring there’s a Glanza for every need and budget.
- Warranty: Enjoy up to 3 years/1 Lakh km standard, extendable to 5 years/2.2 Lakh km.
- Service: Vast network of 650 touchpoints with 60-minute Express Maintenance.
- Value-Added Services: Includes Toyota Financial Services, Toyota U-Trust for exchange, and a wide range of official accessories.
- Configurations: Petrol (MT/AMT) and E-CNG options available across multiple trims.
Full Specifications: Toyota Glanza
Engine & Performance
- Engine: 1.2L K-Series, 4-Cylinder
- Displacement: 1197 cc
- Transmission: 5-Speed MT / AMT
- Fuel Type: Petrol / E-CNG
Fuel Efficiency
- Mileage (MT): 22.35 km/l
- Mileage (AMT): 22.94 km/l
Dimensions
- Length: 3990 mm
- Width: 1745 mm
- Height: 1500 mm
Safety & Technology
- Airbags: Up to 6
- Key Safety: Hill-Hold Control, 360-Degree Camera
- Infotainment: 22.86 cm Smart Playcast
- Key Tech: Head-Up Display, Toyota i-Connect, Cruise Control
Comparisons: Glanza vs. Baleno, i20, Altroz
The Glanza competes in a fierce premium hatchback segment. Its closest rival is its sibling, the Maruti Suzuki Baleno, with which it shares its platform and mechanicals. The key differentiator for the Glanza is the Toyota ownership experience, including its renowned service network and superior warranty package. Compared to the Hyundai i20, the Glanza offers unique features like a Head-Up Display and the backing of Toyota’s reliability, though the i20 competes strongly on powertrain options and bold styling. Against the Tata Altroz, the Glanza boasts superior fuel efficiency and a more feature-rich connected car experience, while the Altroz is known for its 5-star safety rating and ride quality.
Vs. Baleno:
Superior ownership experience; differentiates itself with Toyota’s warranty and service network.
Vs. i20/Altroz:
Strong on tech and efficiency; stands out with features like HUD and Toyota’s trusted after-sales.
Pros and Cons: Our Balanced View
Pros:
- Feature-Rich Cabin: Packed with tech like a Head-Up Display and 360-degree camera.
- Excellent Fuel Efficiency: Class-leading mileage from both MT and AMT petrol variants.
- Comprehensive Safety Suite: Up to 6 airbags and Hill-Hold Control provide peace of mind.
- Toyota’s Ownership Experience: Backed by a vast service network and renowned reliability.
Cons:
- Engine Performance: While efficient, it may not feel as spirited as some turbocharged rivals.
- AMT Transmission: Offers convenience but may not be as smooth as conventional automatics.
- Shared Platform: Design and features are very similar to its Maruti Suzuki counterpart.
Who Is This Car For? Tailored Recommendations
The Toyota Glanza is an outstanding choice for:
- The Tech-Savvy Commuter: Buyers who want the latest features like a Head-Up Display, 360-degree camera, and extensive connected car tech.
- The Efficiency-Conscious Driver: Those for whom excellent fuel economy and low running costs (including the E-CNG option) are a top priority.
- The Peace-of-Mind Seeker: For whom Toyota’s legendary reliability, extensive warranty, and wide service network are major purchasing factors.
- The Style-Forward First-Time Buyer: Individuals looking for a stylish, modern, and easy-to-drive hatchback that makes a cool statement without breaking the budget.
Final Verdict: A Cool, Connected, and Complete Package
The Toyota Glanza is a compelling proposition in the premium hatchback segment. It delivers an awesome combination of modern technology, impressive fuel efficiency, and a strong safety net. The cabin experience, highlighted by the Head-Up Display and classy dual-tone interiors, feels a notch above its class. With the backing of Toyota’s unparalleled service network and warranty, it offers an ownership experience that is as hassle-free as its drive. For the buyer who wants a sophisticated, efficient, and feature-packed hatchback that is easy to own and awesome to drive, the Toyota Glanza is one of the most intelligent choices on the market.
Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5.0 (Based on Expert Analysis)