Maruti Suzuki Baleno Long Term Report: June 2016

City Slicker

Another month of driving the Baleno, and we’ve realised how easy this car is to manoeuvre in traffic and open roads. With its sublime ride quality and spacious cabin, the Baleno could have been the perfect city car, but the 1.2-litre petrol engine acts as a fly in the ointment. It takes quite a while to respond at low revs. The gearbox also feels a bit sloppy and loose on the touch, but it’s just a matter of getting used to it.

The only problem one may face in everyday life is that the Baleno might not be the most fuel efficient petrol car in the city. But careful driving can help you eek out some additional kilometres out of the tank. After driving the car for over 3,500kms, we’ve definitely come to love the little hatchback despite its flaws.

In the time we have been driving it, the Baleno has just gotten better and better to live with. But unfortunately, all good things must come to an end. I’m sure all of us from the team who drove the Baleno will surely miss it.