The Tata Tiago JTP has just gone on sale and the first impression is very positive. It drives like the sporty car it’s meant to be. And the best bit? Priced at Rs 6.39 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) it won’t break the bank either. Until such time the Ford Figo Sports Edition makes a comeback in updated form, the Tiago JTP’s closest rival in spec and price, alike, is the Maruti Suzuki Baleno RS. Let’s see how the two cars compare on paper.

Dimensions

In terms of size, the Tiago JTP is clearly the smaller car. No surprises there; given the Tiago belongs to a lower sub-segment in the hatchback space. The Baleno RS has the large cabin, and also the larger boot, with 97 litres of additional luggage room over the JTP. However, it’s the JTP that sits marginally lower to the ground. It’s 4mm lower than both the standard Tiago and the Baleno RS. Shorter springs are part of the JTP’s suspension upgrade to make it a keener handler.

Powertrain

Under the hood, the Tiago JTP gets a substantial upgrade over the standard model. The JTP’s 1.2-litre, 3 cylinder, turbo-petrol motor comes from the Nexon SUV, albeit with some tweaks. Peak power and torque figures are a healthy 114hp and 150Nm, respectively. The Baleno RS, on the other hand, is powered by a smaller 1.0-litre Boosterjet engine from Suzuki which puts out (12hp) less power but the same torque figure as the JTP. Both cars are available with only 5-speed manual gearbox options.

Equipment

As both the cars are in different segments, their equipment levels vary. The Baleno gets more premium features such as keyless entry with push-button start, Xenon projector headlamps with LED DRLs, automatic climate control and a larger touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Tiago is well-equipped for its price with features like a Harman-sourced 5.0-inch touchscreen, projector headlamps and 15-inch alloy wheels. Drive modes that alter the car’s performance are exclusive to the JTP. On the safety front, both get dual airbags and ABS with EBD but the Baleno RS gets the added benefit of rear disc brakes in comparison to the JTP's drum units.

Prices

Both cars are available in just one fully-loaded variant. The RS gets all the kit from the standard Baleno Alpha variant while the JTP gets a few more goodies over the regular Tiago in its range-topping XZ trim. However, it’s the Tiago JTP that gives you more of a bang for your buck. Priced at Rs 6.39 lakh, the JTP is a full Rs 2 lakh cheaper than the Baleno RS. Only a real-world comparison will reveal the better and more fun car. For now, at least on paper, the JTP is surely more appealing to buyers looking for affordable performance.