Exterior
Although the general shape is the same, every single body panel of this Baleno is new. The bonnet is flatter and wider, the radiator grille is significantly larger, as is the chrome application underneath. The lower bumper has a lot more sculpting and houses new LED fog lights. The most noticeable change is the new set of LED headlights with Nexa's new signature three-block daytime running lights (we've seen something similar on the XL6 before), which are wider at the base and then slash the
to the front fenders as before.
It gives the nose a roomier feel, and a similar trick is used at the rear, where LED taillights, also with a three-block signature, extend to the new tailgate.
Interior
More than just the design, however, the immediately noticeable increase in quality from robust and passable to potentially class-leading impresses. The leatherette on the steering wheel, and especially on the elbows, is soft. Rest that feels very premium, and all plastics have a rich texture. Even the new Stick AC controls are nicely padded and backlit. In fact, we would even go so far as to say that Baleno sets a new high for MarutiSuzuki in terms of quality.
What lets the interior down and sticks out like a thumb in this otherwise well-executed cabin is the simple-looking woven headliner; a woven one would have completed the premium package. You get large door pockets, a good sized glove box and decent center console storage with large cup holders and a small bin under the armrest.
Performance
| Price | ₹ 6.42 Lakh onwards |
|---|---|
| Mileage | 22.3 to 30.61 km/kg |
| Engine | 1197 cc |
| Fuel Type | Petrol & CNG |
| Transmission | Manual & Automatic (AMT) |
| Seating Capacity | 5 Seater |
Under the hood, things appear to be the same as before, but again not quite. In its latest version, the Baleno was equipped with two naturally aspirated 1.2-litre petrol engines: the K12B with 83 hp and the K12C with 90 hp. The first was an earlier generation of this engine and was mated to either a five-speed manual or a CVT automatic. The last, a newer version, was only equipped with a manual gearbox, but featured "DualJet" (Suzuki speaks of two fuel injectors per cylinder). Dual Variable Valve Timing (VVT) and a superior
Compression ratio. But also an integrated starter-generator with engine start/stop and a mild hybrid system with a second battery that even adds a slight electric boost.
Suspension
The Baleno has received a completely new suspension that shows up within minutes of riding. Almost all components have been replaced, with notable changes including a new rear torsion bar, new springs all round, 20mm more travel and retuned damping on all four wheels. The resulting ride quality is best described as more polished, improving comfort at almost no cost to the ride.