Maruti-Suzuki launches new Baleno for Rs 6.35 lakh

Bookings for the new Baleno are already open, and deliveries are slated to begin today.

The Baleno has been a huge success for Maruti-Suzuki and is easily the most popular in the premium hatch segment. According to Maruti, it has sold a Baleno every three minutes for the last six years. Now, Maruti has comprehensively updated the Baleno with a fresh look, more features, and a streamlined powertrain list.

In terms of look, the new Baleno is sharper than before from all angles and features the 'Crafted Futurism' design language. At the front, the headlights are similar to those of the Ciaz and feature integrated LED DRLs. The headlights flow neatly into the grille, and the bumper has been redesigned too.

While not too different in profile, the new Baleno has a more squared-off look. The rear features new C-shaped taillights and a redesigned bumper as well. In short, you don't need a magnifying glass to differentiate between the 2022 Baleno and the outgoing one.

Inside, the new Baleno gets a completely revised dash layout, with a floating 9-inch 'SmartPlay Pro Plus' touchscreen. Along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it also gets an in-built voice assistant that can be brought up by saying 'Hi Suzuki.' Under this new screen sit the AC vents and HVAC controls. The steering wheel seems to have been lifted from the Swift, and the Baleno also gets a heads-up display with higher-spec models. 

It also gets connected car tech via the Suzuki Connect suite, a 360-degree camera system, six-airbags, hill-hold assist, sliding central armrest, rear AC vents, and USB ports (both Type A and Type C) among other features.

In terms of powertrains, the Baleno gets a single-engine option – a 1.2-litre naturally-aspirated unit, with an idle stop/start technology, producing 88.5bhp and 113Nm. This can be mated to either a five-speed manual or Maruti's AGS automated manual transmission. The CVT has been discontinued. In terms of fuel economy, Maruti-Suzuki returns a respectable 22.3km/l for the manual variant and 22.9km/l for the AGS-equipped Baleno.

The Baleno also gets a new hydraulic assist for the clutch, larger 14-inch brakes, and Maruti also says that the suspension has been reengineered for better ride quality. 

In terms of pricing, the new Baleno starts at Rs 6.35 lakh and goes up to Rs 9.49 lakh. It will go up against other premium hatchbacks like the Hyundai i20 and Tata Altroz.

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