Maruti Baleno: The Maruti Suzuki Baleno is a constant favourite in the fiercely competitive premium hatchback segment of the Indian car market.
And from its launch, the Baleno has added on to its reputation with its spacious cabin, fuel-efficient engines and feature-loaded package that is topped off with slick styling without an exorbitant price tag.
With the latest facelift, Maruti has added yet more layers of polish to the Baleno, bringing new safety tech, refreshed styling, better in-cabin tech and all while holding true to the identity of the brand — being affordable, reliable and, well, mileage.
Outside Design: Premium with a Purpose
Design wise, the Baleno has evolved over the time. In the latest generation, it has a wider stance, projector headlamps with sharp LED DRLs, a heavily sculpted front grille with stylish dual-tone alloy wheels, striking a premium road stance.
However, the overall shape is still kept clean and aerodynamic. It’s not too over the top with its styling, but it does a good job striking a balance between elegance and sportiness.
At the back, the new look features fresh LED signature tail lights and a chrome strip that enhances its premium feel.
Interior: Spacious and Modern
On stepping inside the Baleno, you are welcomed by a Dual-Tone, Ebony & Premium Blue dashboard as well as an advanced, floating 9 inch SmartPlay Pro+ infotainment system and the flat bottom steering wheel with mounted controls.
Materials feel of a higher quality this time around, with padded, soft-touch bits and better fit-and-finish in back than the outgoing car.
But what really makes the store stand out is the space. In rear-seat roominess, too, the Baleno is among the best in its class, particularly in shoulder and leg room.
The boot has a capacity of 318-litres also fairly practical for weekend trips or daily use.
Front seats are broad and supportive, and ergonomics are well handled.
Further, Maruti has offered additional gizmos, such as a head-up display, rear AC vents and fast-charging USB ports, to enhance comfort for both driver and passengers.
Engine and Performance
The Baleno comes equipped with a 1.2-litre DualJet petrol motor that makes close to 89.7 PS of power and 113 Nm of torque.
This engine is set up for fuel sipping and quiet operation, not aggressive driving. It comes mated to a 5-speed manual transmission or an AMT (Auto Gear Shift) as well.
Glide Around the City The experience in the city is smooth and easy. Gear shifts are light, the clutch is easy, and the car doesn’t feel skittish even in stop-and-go traffic.
Out on the highway, the engine is stable at cruising speeds, though overtaking has to be calculated since the engine is low on torque.
Maruti boasts a mileage of 22.35 km/l (manual) and 22.94 km/l (AMT), which again sets the Baleno among the best cars in the segment.
Safety and Technology
Newer Baleno gets a considerably better safety. It now offers:
Airbags Alert Six airbags (only in upper models)
ESP with hill hold assist
ABS with EBD
Reverse parking camera
ISOFIX child seat mounts
All passenger seatbelt reminders
On the tech side, inclusions such as the head-up display, 360-degree camera, connected car tech (Suzuki Connect) and voice-enabled infotainment do bring it closer to what modern buyers would demand.
Pros of Maruti Suzuki Baleno
Stylish and premium design
Excellent fuel efficiency
Attractive and roomy cabin
A lot of features for the price, including HUD and 360-degree camera
Is the new Smooth AMT good for easy city driving?
Wide-spread Maruti service and strong resale value
Cons of Maruti Suzuki Baleno
No turbo-petrol or diesel on offer
Not as exciting to drive as competitors like the Altroz or i20
Lack of adjustable headrest for rear seat in some version
Not as durable as the competition
Not even a top-spec model comes with a sunroof
Maruti Baleno: Verdict
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno continues to be one of the best bang-for-your buck cars in the premium hatchback space.
It might not have the strongest acceleration or most engaging handling but is tons when it comes to comfort, fuel economy, interior space and day-to-day usability.
For urban drivers and young couples who don’t have a lot of use for a station wagon size hatchback is your pick, the Baleno would not disappoint where it matters most.