The Maruti Suzuki Baleno is a premium hatchback that has been a strong contender in the Indian market since its launch in 2015. The latest update in 2022 has brought significant improvements to this popular model. Positioned as a more upmarket offering compared to the Swift, the Baleno caters to buyers looking for a spacious, feature-rich hatchback with a touch of sophistication.
Key selling points of the Baleno include its spacious interior, fuel-efficient engines, and a host of modern features. The update has introduced a refreshed exterior design, an overhauled interior with improved quality, and enhanced technology features. With these updates, Maruti Suzuki aims to maintain the Baleno's competitive edge in the premium hatchback segment, offering a compelling blend of style, efficiency, and practicality.
The Baleno is available in multiple variants, catering to different budget and feature requirements. The range includes both manual and automatic transmission options, as well as a CNG variant for those prioritizing running costs.
Key competitors in this segment include the Hyundai i20, Tata Altroz, and Toyota Glanza. Compared to its rivals, the Baleno offers a competitive mix of features, performance, and brand value. While the Hyundai i20 might offer more powerful engine options and the Tata Altroz boasts superior build quality, the Baleno counters with excellent fuel efficiency and Maruti's extensive service network.
The Baleno's range is designed to appeal to a wide audience, from young professionals looking for a stylish yet practical car to families seeking a spacious and comfortable hatchback. The variety of trim levels ensures that there's a Baleno for every need and budget in the premium hatchback segment.
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The Maruti Suzuki Baleno brings a fresh and more contemporary design to the table, while retaining its overall silhouette. The exterior has undergone significant changes, giving the car a more premium and dynamic appearance.
Key exterior features include:
- Redesigned front grille with a larger, more prominent design
- New LED headlamps with a three-block Daytime Running Lamp (DRL) signature
- Resculpted bonnet that's flatter and wider
- Redesigned front bumper with new LED fog lamps
- New set of dual-tone, precision-cut 16-inch alloy wheels
- Updated rear design with new LED tail-lamps featuring a three-block signature
- Chrome strip under the windows that kicks up at the C-pillar
The Baleno's design strikes a balance between elegance and sportiness. The front end, with its new grille and LED headlamps, gives the car a more assertive stance, while the flowing lines along the sides maintain its dynamic appearance.
Inside, the Baleno has received an even more significant overhaul. The dashboard features a new layered design with bold use of blue and dark grey plastics, complemented by glossy light grey and piano black accents. Notable interior design elements include:
- New 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Flat-bottom steering wheel
- Redesigned instrument cluster with coloured Multi-Information Display (MID)
- New toggle-like AC controls
- Improved seat design with better contours and support
Colour options for the Baleno include popular choices like Arctic White, Splendid Silver, and Nexa Blue, allowing buyers to choose a shade that matches their personal style.
Overall, the design updates have significantly enhanced the Baleno's visual appeal, giving it a more upmarket look that aligns well with its positioning in the premium hatchback segment.
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno comes with a refined powertrain lineup, focusing on efficiency and drivability. The key specifications of the engine include:
- Displacement: 1197cc
- Configuration: 4-cylinder
- Maximum Power: 88.50bhp @ 6000rpm (Petrol), 76.43bhp @ 6000rpm (CNG)
- Peak Torque: 113Nm @ 4400rpm (Petrol), 98.5Nm @ 4300rpm (CNG)
The Baleno uses the K12N engine, an evolution of the previous K12C unit. Key features of this engine include:
- Dual injectors per cylinder (DualJet technology)
- Dual Variable Valve Timing (VVT)
- Higher compression ratio for improved thermal efficiency
- Automatic engine start-stop system for enhanced fuel efficiency
Transmission options for the Baleno include:
1. 5-speed manual transmission
- Smooth and precise shifting
- Light hydraulic clutch for easy operation
2. 5-speed AMT (Automated Manual Transmission)
- Improved shift quality compared to previous AMT versions
- Offers both automatic and manual modes
Compared to key competitors:
- The Hyundai i20 offers similarly powered engine options but the Baleno scores with better fuel efficiency.
- The Tata Altroz provides diesel engine options, which the Baleno lacks, but the Baleno's petrol engine is more refined.
- The Toyota Glanza, being a rebadged Baleno, offers identical powertrain options.
While the Baleno may not lead the segment in outright performance, its focus on fuel efficiency (with claimed figures of up to 22.35 km/l for petrol and 30.61 km/kg for CNG) and smooth drivability makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers and those prioritizing low running costs.
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The Maruti Suzuki Baleno comes equipped with a range of features that enhance comfort, convenience, and safety across its variants. Some key features available in most or all variants include:
- Automatic climate control (in higher trims)
- Height-adjustable driver's seat
- Tilt and telescopic steering wheel
- 60:40 split rear seats
- Rear AC vents
- Keyless entry with push-button start (in higher trims)
- 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system (in higher trims)
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Steering-mounted audio controls
- Voice recognition
Some standout tech features in the Baleno include:
- Head-up display (first-in-segment feature)
- 360-degree camera (in top-end variants)
- Suzuki Connect connected car technology
- Dual front airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Reverse parking sensors
- High-speed alert system
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
Compared to its competitors:
- While the Hyundai i20 offers more features like wireless charging, which are missing in the Baleno, the latter counters with the segment-first head-up display.
- The Tata Altroz provides more airbags in higher variants, but the Baleno offers more advanced connected car features.
- The Toyota Glanza matches the Baleno in most features, being based on the same platform.
Overall, the Baleno provides a well-rounded package of features that cater to the needs of most buyers in this segment, balancing comfort, convenience, and safety across its range. The inclusion of some segment-first features like the head-up display gives it an edge in terms of technology offerings.
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno, powered by the K12N engine, offers a balance of performance and efficiency that caters well to both city driving and highway cruising.
- The 1.2L, 4-cylinder engine produces 88.50bhp and 113Nm of torque in its petrol avatar.
- The CNG variant offers slightly lower output at 76.43bhp and 98.5Nm of torque.
- The engine is particularly strong in the lower and mid-range, making it ideal for urban driving conditions.
- While not the most powerful in its class, the Baleno offers smooth and linear power delivery.
1. 5-speed Manual:
- Smooth shifting with well-defined gates
- Light clutch action makes it easy to use in stop-and-go traffic
2. 5-speed AMT:
- Improved over previous AMT iterations
- Still shows some hesitation between shifts, especially at lower speeds
- Offers a manual mode for more control
- The Baleno has received an all-new suspension setup in the update
- Low-speed ride quality is excellent, absorbing most road imperfections with ease
- At higher speeds, there's some pitch and bounce, especially in the rear
- Handling has improved, with the new steering offering more weight and quicker response
- Body roll is well controlled, inspiring confidence during high-speed lane changes
- Petrol Manual: 22.35 km/l (claimed)
- Petrol AMT: 22.94 km/l (claimed)
- CNG: 30.61 km/kg (claimed)
- These figures make the Baleno one of the most fuel-efficient cars in its class
Compared to Competitors:
- The Hyundai i20 offers more refinedl engine but can't match the Baleno's fuel efficiency
- The Tata Altroz provides a more planted ride at high speeds but falls short in terms of engine refinement
- The Toyota Glanza, being mechanically identical, offers similar performance and efficiency
In summary, the Baleno offers a well-rounded package in terms of performance and efficiency. While it may not be the most powerful in its class, its focus on drivability and fuel efficiency, combined with its improved handling, makes it a compelling choice for buyers seeking a balance of performance and practicality.
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The Maruti Suzuki Baleno has seen improvements in its safety features, addressing one of the key areas of focus in the premium hatchback segment. The new model comes with a comprehensive safety suite that includes:
- Dual front airbags
- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution)
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
- Rear parking sensors
- High-speed alert system
- Seat belt reminder for driver and co-driver
- Impact-sensing door unlock
- Engine immobilizer
- Up to 6 airbags (including side and curtain airbags)
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Hill Hold Assist
- 360-degree camera
- Reverse view camera
While the Baleno doesn't offer advanced driver assistance systems like autonomous emergency braking or lane departure warning, it does include features like:
- Auto headlamps
- Rain-sensing wipers (in top variants)
It's worth noting that the Baleno has not been tested by Global NCAP under their new, more stringent protocols.
Compared to Competitors:
- The Tata Altroz offers up to 6 airbags in its top variants and has a 5-star Global NCAP rating
- The Hyundai i20 provides similar safety features and has a 3-star Global NCAP rating
- The Toyota Glanza matches the Baleno in most safety aspects
While the Baleno has made significant strides in safety, it still lags behind some competitors in terms of advanced safety tech and crash test ratings. However, for most buyers in this segment, the Baleno's safety suite should prove adequate, providing a good balance of essential safety features across its range.
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno offers a comfortable and spacious interior, making it well-suited for both city commutes and longer journeys. Here's a breakdown of its comfort and space aspects:
- Length: 3990 mm
- Width: 1745 mm
- Height: 1500 mm
- Wheelbase: 2520 mm
- Front seats have been redesigned with improved lateral and shoulder support
- Rear bench offers good under-thigh and lateral support
- The springy softness of the seats adds an extra layer of comfort
- Despite its compact exterior dimensions, the Baleno manages to offer generous interior space
- Rear legroom is excellent, with plenty of room for tall passengers to stretch out
- Headroom is adequate for most passengers
- 318 liters of boot space
- 60:40 split rear seats for added versatility
- Automatic climate control (in higher trims)
- Rear AC vents for better air circulation
- Height-adjustable driver's seat
- Tilt and telescopic adjustable steering wheel
Notable Points:
- The cab-forward design contributes to the spacious feel of the interior
- Large windows provide good visibility and contribute to an airy cabin ambience
- The high loading lip of the boot might make it challenging to load heavy luggage
Compared to Competitors:
- The Baleno offers more interior space than the Hyundai i20
- While the Tata Altroz provides a more premium feel, the Baleno counters with better space utilization
- The Toyota Glanza, being based on the Baleno, offers identical space and comfort
In summary, the Baleno provides one of the most spacious interiors in its class. Its clever packaging and comfortable seating make it a practical choice for small families and those who frequently travel with passengers.
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno comes equipped with a modern infotainment system that caters to the connectivity needs of today's car buyers. Key features include:
- 9.0-inch touchscreen display (in higher trims)
- Smartphone connectivity via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming
- Voice recognition for hands-free control
- Suzuki Connect connected car technology
- Remote access via smartphone app
- Real-time vehicle tracking
- Geofencing alerts
- Steering-mounted controls for easy operation
- Arkamys sound tuning for improved audio quality
- Head-up display for easy access to key information
- Responsive touchscreen with intuitive menu layout
- Crisp graphics and good visibility even in bright sunlight
Compared to Competitors:
- The Hyundai i20 offers a similarly sized screen but with a more premium look and feel
- The Tata Altroz provides a fully digital instrument cluster, which the Baleno lacks
- The Toyota Glanza matches the Baleno's infotainment offerings
While the Baleno's infotainment system may not be class-leading in terms of screen size, it offers a user-friendly interface and covers all the essential connectivity options that most buyers in this segment would expect. The inclusion of connected car features and the head-up display gives it an edge in terms of technology offerings.
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno stands out in the premium hatchback segment with several unique selling points:
1. Spacious Interior: Despite its compact exterior dimensions, the Baleno offers one of the most spacious cabins in its class, particularly in terms of rear-seat legroom.
2. Fuel Efficiency: With claimed efficiency figures of up to 22.94 km/l for petrol and 30.61 km/kg for CNG, the Baleno is one of the most fuel-efficient cars in its segment.
3. Advanced Features: The Baleno offers some segment-first features like a head-up display and 360-degree camera, setting it apart from competitors.
4. Refined Ride Quality: The new suspension setup offers a sophisticated ride, balancing comfort and handling well.
5. Brand Value and After-Sales Support: Maruti Suzuki's extensive service network and low maintenance costs make the Baleno a practical choice for long-term ownership.
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno appeals to a diverse range of buyers:
1. Young Professionals: The Baleno's stylish design, modern features, and fuel efficiency make it attractive to young, urban professionals looking for a premium yet practical daily driver.
2. Small Families: With its spacious interior and decent boot space, the Baleno serves as an ideal family car for couples with young children.
3. Tech-Savvy Buyers: The inclusion of features like the head-up display, 360-degree camera, and connected car technology appeals to buyers who prioritize the latest tech in their vehicles.
4. Fuel Economy Conscious Buyers: With its excellent fuel efficiency, the Baleno attracts those who prioritize low running costs, especially with the CNG option available.
5. First-Time Premium Hatchback Buyers: The Baleno's balance of features, space, and brand reliability makes it an attractive option for those upgrading from smaller hatchbacks.
For different powertrain options:
- Manual Variants: Preferred by enthusiasts and those who enjoy more control over their driving experience.
- AMT Variants: Ideal for urban commuters dealing with heavy traffic, as well as those who prioritize convenience over sportiness.
- CNG Variants: Attract buyers looking for extremely low running costs, particularly in cities with good CNG infrastructure.
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno competes in the highly competitive premium hatchback segment. Its key competitors include:
1. Hyundai i20
2. Tata Altroz
3. Toyota Glanza
How the Baleno stands out:
- Class-leading fuel efficiency
- Spacious interior
- Segment-first features like head-up display
- Strong brand value and extensive service network
Areas where competitors have an edge:
- Tata Altroz: Superior build quality and safety ratings
- Hyundai i20: More powerful engine options and premium interior feel
- Toyota Glanza: Toyota's reliability reputation (though mechanically identical to Baleno)
The Baleno maintains its strong position in the segment through its balanced approach, offering a mix of space, efficiency, and features that appeals to a wide range of buyers.
1. Spacious and comfortable interior
2. Excellent fuel efficiency
3. Smooth and refined petrol engine
4. Improved ride quality and handling
5. Advanced features like head-up display and 360-degree camera
6. Strong brand value and extensive service network
7. CNG option available for lower running costs
1. AMT transmission can feel jerky compared to CVT or DCT options
2. No diesel engine option
3. Some hard plastics in the interior may feel less premium
4. Lacks the powerful engine options offered by some competitors
5. Safety rating not yet established under new Global NCAP norms
6. Top-end variants can be priced on the higher side
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno represents a significant improvement over its predecessor, addressing many of the previous model's shortcomings while building on its strengths. It continues to be a strong contender in the premium hatchback segment, offering a compelling blend of space, efficiency, and features.
The Baleno's greatest strengths lie in its spacious interior, class-leading fuel efficiency, and the peace of mind that comes with Maruti Suzuki's extensive service network. While it may not lead the pack in terms of outright performance or advanced safety features, it offers a well-rounded package that caters to a wide range of buyers.
For those prioritising fuel economy, interior space, and brand reliability, the Baleno presents a compelling case. However, buyers seeking more power options or class-leading safety features might want to consider alternatives. Ultimately, the Baleno's balanced approach to practicality, efficiency, and features makes it a worthy choice for many in the premium hatchback segment.