Maruti Suzuki Baleno 1.2 Petrol Delta MT

The Maruti Suzuki Fronx is based on the Baleno, and mechanically and structurally, both are very similar. 

Thus, both will be very similar when it comes to safety, too. As for the crash safety rating, yes, the Fronx has secured a 4-star rating in the Japan NCAP crash tests; however, the Baleno has secured a 5-star rating in the BNCAP tests. 

So the Baleno is safe too, if not safer, you must bear in mind that there could be differences in the export model. As for the engines, both Fronx and Baleno use the same 1.2 liter naturally aspirated unit. However, the Fronx also comes with the choice of a more peppy and lively 1.0 liter turbo petrol engine

We suggest going for the Maruti Suzuki Fronx. It has SUV styling, higher ground clearance, and is a more modern offering than the Maruti Suzuki Baleno. Since Maruti is expected to update the Baleno in the coming months, buying one now may leave you with a car that feels dated soon. SUVs also tend to enjoy better resale value in the Indian market, which works in your favour if you plan to upgrade later.

Our preferred engine choice is the 1.0-litre turbo, but if your usage is mostly within the city and you’re working within a budget, the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated engine will serve you well too.
 

The Toyota Glanza is a rebadged Maruti Suzuki Baleno, and the only difference between the two is the badge, some interior trim colours and the warranty. The Glanza is sold with a 3-year/1,00,000km warranty, while the Baleno gets a 2-year/40,000km warranty.

The Glanza is a good option if you like the way it looks, and the UV cut glass is a must-have feature for you. However, if you are looking for a car that will hold its value better, then the Maruti Suzuki Baleno is the better option, and also features UV cut class.

The Tata Altroz does get you the option of a diesel engine, and a DCT automatic, which is the more sophisticated auto gearbox here. However, you could also consider the new Hyundai i20, which comes with a CVT auto or a DCT with its powerful turbo engine.

You haven't mentioned your budget, so it'll be difficult to recommend the right car. Since you've mentioned you want something as small as the Maruti Suzuki Baleno, the Hyundai Venue does make a lot of sense. 

You could go for the 1.2L petrol version too, since your usage is going to be minimal. The lower variants are great value for money. If you want a bigger car for similar money, you could look at the Citroen Aircross X. However, your wife will need to get used to its larger dimensions.

Your choice of the Tata Altroz is good, the car delivers a very good ride, is spacious and safe too. If you would like to check out an alternate, have a look at the Maruti Suzuki Baleno. 

Like the Altroz, you will find that the Baleno too has ample interior space, has a good ride quality, and it's safe too, and of course, will also come in under your Rs 10 lakh budget.   

The Maruti Baleno AGS is a proven, reliable hatchback, which will be the most fuel-efficient option from the bunch. It offers good space, comfort and is likely to deliver a trouble-free ownership experience. 

Between the three, it is the best option for a new driver. You could also consider a Toyota Glanza, which is the badge-engineered Baleno, but comes with beige-black interiors.