Maruti Suzuki Baleno Zeta Review: 6 Airbags at ₹8.43 Lakh

Advanced Safety

Safety features in the Baleno Zeta include:

1. Six Airbags

2. Rear View Camera with Guidelines

3. ABS with EBD

4. Speed Alert System

5. ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts

The six-airbag system in the Zeta variant offers 200% more airbag coverage compared to the standard dual airbag setup in lower variants.

Improved Convenience

Key convenience features include:

1. 7-inch Touchscreen Infotainment System

2. Steering Mounted Controls

3. Keyless Entry and Push Button Start

4. USB Charger (Front & Rear)

5. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

Family-Friendly Features

1. 60:40 Split Rear Seat

2. Boot Space of 318 Liters

3. Rear Wiper and Washer

4. Luggage Hook & Net

The 318-liter boot space, while slightly reduced from the previous model, is still about 2% larger than the average boot space in the compact hatchback segment, which typically ranges from 290-310 liters.

Exterior Enhancements

1. 16-inch Alloy Wheels

2. LED Headlamps

3. Chrome Accents

4. Body-colored ORVMs with Turn Indicators

Space and Practicality

1. Wheelbase of 2520mm

2. Improved Seat Contouring

3. Ample Knee Room and Headroom

4. Generous Storage Options

Performance and Driving Experience

Powered by a 1.2L K Series Engine:

- Power: 88.50bhp at 6000rpm

- Torque: 113Nm at 4400rpm

- Transmission: 5-speed manual

The engine offers a good balance of performance and efficiency, ideal for city driving.

Ride and Handling

1. Improved Suspension

2. Enhanced Low-Speed Comfort

3. Upgraded Steering

4. Good Body Control

Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs

ARAI-certified fuel efficiency: 22.35 kmpl

Fuel tank capacity: 37 liters

Based on these figures:

- Theoretical range on a full tank: 827 km

- Estimated real-world range (assuming 20% lower efficiency): 662 km

For a family driving 1,200 km per month:

- Monthly fuel consumption: Approximately 54 liters

- At current petrol prices (assuming Rs. 100/liter), monthly fuel cost: Rs. 5,400

This represents a potential saving of about 28% in fuel costs compared to a car with a fuel efficiency of 16 kmpl.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system offers:

1. SmartPlay Pro

2. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

3. Four-Speaker System

4. Voice Command Functions

Variant Comparison

Compared to lower variants (Sigma or Delta):

- Safety: 200% more airbag coverage

- Infotainment: 7-inch touchscreen vs. basic audio system

- Comfort: Addition of automatic climate control, rear AC vents

Compared to higher variant (Alpha):

- Lacks LED DRLs and 360-degree camera

- Offers most essential features at a more affordable price point

Conclusion

The Maruti Suzuki Baleno Zeta emerges as an excellent choice for families looking for comfort, features, and affordability in the premium hatchback segment. It offers significant upgrades over lower variants in terms of safety, comfort, and convenience features.

Scenario: Consider a young family of four upgrading from a basic hatchback. The Baleno Zeta offers them enhanced safety with six airbags, improved comfort with features like rear AC vents and automatic climate control, and modern connectivity with the 7-inch infotainment system. The impressive fuel efficiency of 22.35 kmpl helps keep running costs low, potentially saving the family over Rs. 2,000 per month in fuel costs compared to their previous car. All these upgrades significantly improve their daily commutes and weekend family trips, without stretching their budget to the top-tier variant.

For families who prioritize a mix of practicality, comfort, and value, the Baleno Zeta represents a sweet spot in the lineup. It delivers a premium feel and essential features without the higher price tag of the Alpha variant, making it an attractive proposition for discerning family buyers in the premium hatchback market.