The Toyota Glanza has become a popular choice in India’s premium hatchback segment since its launch. If you’re considering this vehicle, understanding its engine specifications is a key part of your research. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the engine powering the Glanza.
Understanding the Toyota Glanza Engine Lineup
The Toyota Glanza comes with a 1.2-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine and a 1.2-liter CNG option. Both variants share the same displacement but deliver different performance characteristics based on the fuel type.
The petrol engine uses Suzuki’s K12N 1.2-liter, four-cylinder, DualJet technology. This four-cylinder configuration ensures smooth power delivery and better balance compared to three-cylinder alternatives. DualJet technology refers to the dual fuel injection system, where each cylinder gets two fuel injectors instead of one, allowing for more precise fuel delivery and improved combustion.
Petrol Engine Specifications
Let’s break down what makes the petrol engine tick:
The 1.2-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine produces 90PS of power at 6000rpm and 113Nm of torque at 4400rpm. This power output makes it suitable for city commutes and highway cruising without feeling underpowered.
The engine comes with two transmission options. You can choose between a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed AMT (Automated Manual Transmission). The manual transmission gives you more control over gear selection, while the AMT provides the convenience of automatic shifting without the complexity of a traditional automatic gearbox.
The displacement of 1197cc positions the Glanza in the compact yet capable category. This size strikes a balance between performance and fuel economy, making it practical for daily driving.
CNG Variant Details
For buyers looking to reduce fuel costs, the CNG option presents an attractive alternative. The CNG engine produces 78PS of power at 6000rpm and 99Nm of torque at 4300rpm with a 5-speed manual transmission.
The reduction in power and torque compared to the petrol variant is typical for CNG engines due to the lower energy density of compressed natural gas. However, the CNG variant compensates with significantly better running costs and lower emissions.
The CNG system maintains the same 1197cc displacement as the petrol engine. This means the basic engine architecture remains unchanged, with the fuel delivery system adapted to handle compressed natural gas instead of petrol.
Real-World Performance
How does this engine perform in everyday conditions? The answer depends on your driving style and expectations.
In city traffic, the engine is quick and progressively gains speed, making overtaking easy without waiting for power. The light clutch and smooth gear changes in the manual version make stop-and-go traffic less tiring. The AMT adds convenience for urban commutes, though gear shifts are noticeable compared to conventional automatics.
On highways, the engine maintains comfortable cruising speeds. The refinement means you won’t hear excessive engine noise even at higher RPMs. The naturally aspirated design delivers linear power, meaning the acceleration feels predictable and smooth rather than sudden.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
One major consideration for hatchback buyers is running costs. The Toyota Glanza delivers a mileage between 22.35 to 22.94 kmpl depending on the transmission and variant. The manual transmission achieves around 22.35 kmpl, while the AMT slightly edges ahead at 22.94 kmpl in ARAI testing.
The CNG variant takes fuel economy to another level. The ARAI-claimed mileage for CNG is 30.61 km/kg, making it one of the most economical options in its segment.
These figures represent ideal test conditions. Real-world mileage typically ranges between 13–18 kmpl in city conditions and 17–22 kmpl on highways for petrol variants, depending on driving style and traffic conditions. When comparing fuel efficiency across diesel-vs-petrol-cars, the Glanza’s petrol and CNG options remain strong choices for budget-friendly daily running.
Engine Technology and Features
The K12N engine incorporates several modern technologies that improve its overall performance and efficiency.
The DualJet fuel injection system is a standout feature. By having two injectors per cylinder instead of one, the system can atomize fuel more finely and distribute it more evenly throughout the combustion chamber. This leads to more complete combustion, better fuel economy, and lower emissions.
The engine includes idle stop-start technology, which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary and restarts it when you’re ready to move. This feature particularly helps in heavy traffic by reducing unnecessary fuel consumption during long waits at traffic signals.
The naturally aspirated design means there’s no turbocharger involved. While turbocharged engines offer more power from smaller displacements, naturally aspirated engines like the one in the Glanza tend to be more reliable and require less maintenance over time.
Comparing With Market Alternatives
The Glanza shares its engine with the Maruti Suzuki Baleno, as both vehicles are part of a partnership between Toyota and Suzuki. Both hatchbacks are powered by the same 90hp, 113Nm, 1.2-liter, four-cylinder, DualJet K12N petrol engine.
This engine competes well against rivals like the Hyundai i20, Tata Altroz, and other premium hatchbacks. While some competitors offer turbocharged engines with higher peak power, the Glanza’s engine focuses on refinement, reliability, and daily usability.
The four-cylinder configuration gives the Glanza smoother operation compared to three-cylinder engines found in some competing models. You’ll notice less vibration and a more refined sound at higher speeds.
Transmission Options Explained
Choosing between manual and AMT depends on your driving preferences and daily commute conditions.
The 5-speed manual transmission suits drivers who prefer complete control. It offers engaging driving dynamics and typically delivers slightly better real-world fuel economy when driven efficiently. The clutch action is light, making it manageable even in heavy traffic.
The 5-speed AMT provides automatic convenience without the cost premium of conventional automatics or CVTs. The AMT is programmed to upshift to the highest gear at the earliest opportunity for better efficiency. While gear changes are somewhat noticeable, this transmission makes daily commutes less stressful, especially in congested city conditions.
The CNG variant only comes with the manual transmission. This is typical for CNG vehicles, as automated transmissions are less common in this fuel category.
Maintenance and Reliability
The K12N engine comes from Suzuki’s proven K-series family, which has millions of kilometers of real-world testing behind it. This translates to good long-term reliability when properly maintained.
Regular maintenance typically involves oil changes every 10,000 kilometers or once a year. The naturally aspirated design means fewer complex components compared to turbocharged engines, potentially resulting in lower maintenance costs.
Toyota Castle and other authorized Toyota service centers provide trained technicians familiar with this engine. Toyota backs the Glanza with a standard warranty, giving buyers additional peace of mind about long-term ownership costs.
The simple design also means parts are readily available. Since the engine is shared with the Maruti Baleno, service centers have good access to spare parts, reducing wait times for repairs or scheduled maintenance.
Technical Specifications at a Glance
Here’s a quick reference for the key specifications:
Petrol Engine:
- Displacement: 1197cc
- Configuration: 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated
- Power: 90PS at 6000rpm
- Torque: 113Nm at 4400rpm
- Fuel injection: DualJet (dual injectors per cylinder)
- Transmission: 5-speed manual or 5-speed AMT
- Mileage: 22.35-22.94 kmpl (ARAI)
CNG Engine:
- Displacement: 1197cc
- Configuration: 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated
- Power: 78PS at 6000rpm
- Torque: 99Nm at 4300rpm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual
- Mileage: 30.61 km/kg (ARAI)
Who Should Choose Which Engine?
Your choice between petrol and CNG depends on your specific needs and usage patterns.
Choose the petrol variant if you:
- Drive moderate distances daily (less than 50-60 km)
- Frequently travel on highways
- Prefer the convenience of widespread fuel availability
- Want the AMT option for automatic convenience
- Need slightly better performance for overtaking or hill driving
Choose the CNG variant if you:
- Have high daily running (100+ km per day)
- Drive primarily in city conditions
- Have easy access to CNG filling stations
- Want the lowest possible running costs
- Prioritize environmental benefits with lower emissions
Making Your Purchase Decision
When you visit Toyota Castle Glanza to explore the test driving both the manual and AMT variants will give you a clear sense of which transmission suits your driving style. The sales team can provide detailed information about current pricing, financing options, and warranty coverage.
Consider your typical driving conditions. If you face heavy traffic daily, the AMT might reduce driving fatigue. If you enjoy the engagement of manual shifting or want maximum fuel efficiency, the manual transmission is the better choice.
The engine itself is the same across all petrol variants, so your decision mainly revolves around transmission preference and feature levels in different trim options.
Long-Term Ownership Perspective
The Glanza’s engine has proven itself reliable in the Baleno over several years. Owners report good durability with proper maintenance. The naturally aspirated design typically ages well, with performance remaining consistent over high mileages.
Fuel efficiency tends to remain stable over time, unlike some turbocharged engines that can lose efficiency as they age. The simple mechanical design means fewer things can go wrong compared to more complex powertrains.
Resale value benefits from Toyota’s brand reputation and the engine’s proven track record. Buyers in the used car market recognize the reliability of this powertrain, which helps maintain stronger resale prices compared to some alternatives.
Final Thoughts
The 1.2-liter K12N engine in the Toyota Glanza represents a practical choice for buyers seeking reliable, efficient performance in a premium hatchback. Its proven design, good fuel economy, and refinement make it suitable for most driving conditions.
Whether you choose petrol or CNG, manual or AMT, you’re getting an engine that balances daily usability with reasonable running costs. The naturally aspirated design means fewer complications and better long-term reliability compared to more complex alternatives.
For more information about the Toyota Glanza and to schedule a test drive, visit Toyota Castle or contact your nearest authorized Toyota dealership. Their experienced team can help you choose the right variant and transmission combination for your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What engine does the Toyota Glanza use?
The Glanza uses a 1.2-liter K12N DualJet petrol engine producing 90PS and 113Nm. This four-cylinder, naturally aspirated engine features dual fuel injectors per cylinder for better efficiency. A CNG variant with the same 1197cc displacement is also available, producing 78PS and 99Nm. Both engines come from Suzuki’s proven K-series family.
Is the Toyota Glanza engine the same as Maruti Baleno?
Yes, the Glanza shares its engine with the Maruti Suzuki Baleno. Both use the identical 1.2-liter K12N DualJet petrol engine with the same power and torque outputs. This engine-sharing comes from the Toyota-Suzuki partnership. The vehicles also share transmissions and achieve similar fuel economy figures, though they differ in exterior styling and warranty coverage.
What is the mileage of Toyota Glanza petrol engine?
The petrol manual variant delivers approximately 22.35 kmpl, while the AMT version achieves around 22.94 kmpl according to ARAI certification. Real-world mileage typically ranges from 13-18 kmpl in city driving and 17-22 kmpl on highways. Actual figures depend on driving style, traffic conditions, load, and maintenance. The idle stop-start technology helps improve city fuel efficiency.
Does Toyota Glanza have a turbo engine?
No, the Glanza uses a naturally aspirated 1.2-liter engine without turbocharging. The naturally aspirated design provides linear power delivery, better reliability, and lower maintenance requirements compared to turbocharged alternatives. While some competitors offer turbo engines with higher peak power, the Glanza focuses on refinement, proven reliability, and everyday usability for most buyers.
Which transmission is better in Toyota Glanza?
The choice depends on your needs. The 5-speed manual offers better driver engagement, slightly better fuel economy, and lower maintenance costs. It’s ideal if you enjoy driving control and face moderate traffic. The 5-speed AMT provides automatic convenience for heavy city traffic, though gear shifts are somewhat noticeable. Most buyers prefer AMT for easier daily commutes.