Over the course of three months and more than 5,000 kilometers, the Toyota Glanza has established itself as a versatile vehicle, excelling as both a practical city car and a dependable companion for our shoot schedules. As we part ways with this hatchback, we reflect on the features that impressed us and the areas where it could improve.
Highlights of the Glanza
The Glanza proved to be the most straightforward and reliable car in our fleet. It shines as an ideal city commuter with excellent mileage and a spacious cabin, while also offering comfort for long journeys with a full load of passengers and luggage. The indicated mileage consistently stayed above 14 kmpl, reaching over 15 kmpl on highways. In terms of design, I personally find the Glanza more appealing than its cousin, the Baleno, thanks to its distinctive front and wheel designs.
The standout feature of the Glanza is its proven 1.2-litre petrol engine. This engine is remarkably refined, and paired with the five-speed manual gearbox, it delivers a smooth and effortless driving experience. Although the engine feels a bit sluggish below 2,000 rpm, it becomes lively and enthusiastic once past that point, rewarding the driver with a pleasant exhaust note.
Another aspect that has impressed everyone who spent time with the Glanza is its extensive feature set. The high-quality audio from the 4+2 speaker setup and the LED headlamps with excellent night throw are noteworthy. Features like the auto-dimming IRVM and UV-cut window glasses, typically found in higher-segment cars, are a welcome addition.
The colored heads-up display (HUD) and 360-degree camera system have been particularly pampering. The various camera angles and views make parking in tight parallel and perpendicular spots much easier. The customizable HUD views, with adjustable brightness and display point, are perfect for keeping your eyes on the road. However, we did find the tint on the display screen to be a bit too dark, leading us to look above it rather than through it.
Areas for Improvement
While the Glanza has many strengths, there are a few areas where it could improve. The engine, although refined and capable, feels a bit underwhelming below 2,000 rpm. A bit more low-end torque would enhance the driving experience, particularly in city traffic.
Additionally, while the HUD is a great feature, the dark tint on the display screen can be distracting. A lighter tint or adjustable transparency would improve visibility and usability.
Conclusion
In summary, the Toyota Glanza has proven to be a reliable and versatile vehicle. Its combination of practicality, comfort, and features make it a standout choice for both city commuting and long journeys. While there is room for improvement, particularly in the engine’s low-end performance and HUD visibility, the overall package is impressive. The Glanza has left a lasting positive impression, and we bid it farewell with appreciation for its performance and features.