Maruti Suzuki Baleno, Alto, Wagon R and More to Become Expensive From April

Maruti Suzuki will raise the prices of its model range, including the Alto, the Baleno, and others, in April. The exact percentage of the price increase has not been revealed yet, but we know that it will be done to partially counteract the consequences of overall inflation and regulatory requirements. According to the firm, it made every effort to minimize costs and partially offset the increase. However, now it has become necessary to pass on some of the damage through a price hike. Price hikes in cars are common in India. Several automakers hike the prices of their models due to increases in production costs, such as the cost of raw materials, labor, and others, or a hike in taxes. In addition, inflationary pressures, exchange rate fluctuations, and government regulations, also contribute to price increases. Apart from Maruti Suzuki, several other automotive firms, including Tata Motors, Honda Cars India, etc., have also raised the prices of their respective model range. 

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki Brezza CNG Waiting Period Extends up to 4 Months in India

BSVI Emission Norms Effective From April 1

Along with price hikes on some of the models by different carmakers, new emission norms will also come into effect next month. Tata Motors, Renault, and Kia are some of the carmakers, which have already modified some of their models according to the upcoming strict emission norms in India. 

Phase two of the BS6 rules, also known as Real Driving Emission or RDE norms, would require all vehicles to meet emission targets in actual driving situations in addition to being tested in a lab setting on the MIDC (Modified Indian Test Cycle). The new RDE test numbers will offer a more accurate projection of the emissions quantity anticipated to be produced by vehicles in real traffic situations with constant changes in speed, acceleration, and deceleration.

Also Read: Check Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Baleno, XL6 CNG Variant Waiting Period (March)

Maruti Suzuki Baleno: The best-selling car in February 2023 

In February, the Maruti Suzuki Baleno outshines the Swift to become the best-selling vehicle in India. The carmaker sold 18,592 units of the Baleno in the past month, registering a significant 48% YoY increase over the same month last year when it sold 12,570 units, only. With sales of 18,412 units, 18,114 units, and 16,889 units, respectively, the Swift, Alto, and Wagon R followed the Baleno on the sales chart, standing second, third, and fourth, respectively.

Mechanically, the 2023 Maruti Suzuki Baleno hatchback is driven by a 1.2-Litre 4-cylinder Dualjet K12N petrol engine, competent of delivering a maximum power output of 90bhp. For transmission, the Baleno uses either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed AMT. further, it has 14-inch disc brakes at the front axle, along with a reworked suspension system. The updated Baleno costs between Rs 6.56 lakh and Rs 9.83 lakh (all prices, ex-showroom) in India.