Maruti Suzuki has launched the 2022 Baleno premium hatchback in India at a starting price tag of ₹ 6.35 lakh. This isn’t a new-gen model but a heavily upgraded model compared to its predecessor, the platform and powertrain remain the same. The new-gen model is offered in four broad trims – Sigma, Delta, Zeta, and Alpha, the Sigma variant cost ₹ 6.35 lakh while the top-end variant Alpha automatic trim cost ₹ 9.49 lakh. It is available in six colours and you have the option to choose between manual and automatic transmissions. At such a price tag, it will compete with Hyundai i20, Tata Altroz, Honda Jazz, Volkswagen Polo, and soon-to-be-launched Toyota Glanza.
In terms of design, the overall silhouette and dimensions of the new-gen model remain unchanged, it sports a wider and slimmer grille, the grille gets chrome garnish that expands to the angular LED projector headlamps with LED DRLs, giving the front end a bold persona. The shoulder line is revised from its predecessor, mildly revised 16-inch alloy wheels are the only change on the side, while the rear-end gets new split-LED tail lamps and an ever-so-lightly revised bumper.
The most drastic change on the new-gen Baleno is on the inside and tech has been one of the major focus areas. The new-gen Baleno gets a new dual-tone black/blue dashboard with plenty of silver highlights, the biggest highlight is the new dashboard sporting a bigger and advanced 9-inch Smartplay Pro standalone touchscreen unit, taking the centre stage. It gets an all-new interface featuring much sharper and crisper graphics and the revised central console with new AC vents and climate control knobs. Lastly, the steering wheel has been borowwed from the Dzire.
The new-gen Baleno features list has seen new additions – six airbags, a head-up display, 360-degree camera, connected car tech with Alexa support, wireless charging, a new sound system with ARKAMYS tuning, and electronic stability control with the hill-hold assist. Other features like 40 connected car features along with Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay, automatic climate control, keyless entry with push-button start, and cruise control have been retained.
Commenting on the launch, Mr. Kenichi Ayukawa, Managing Director & CEO, Maruti Suzuki
India Limited, said,
“Baleno is amongst the top five best-selling cars in the industry since launch. Over 1 million
delighted Baleno customers in India and across 100+ countries of the world have appreciated it for design and performance. The New Age Baleno is our new approach towards the future. With a focus on technology and innovation, the New Age Baleno is set to re-energize the premium hatchback segment with several first-in-segment features. The new-age technology and features along with fresh look, premium interiors, and a special focus on safety will take the customer experience to a new high.”
He further added, “With our suppliers, Maruti Suzuki has invested over Rs 1,150 Crores on this full model change. We are confident that the New Age Baleno will continue to win more hearts and scale even greater heights.”
Under the hood, the new-gen Maruti Suzuki Baleno comes with a 90PS 1.2-litre VVT motor which is mated to a five-speed manual transmission as standard while a five-speed AMT unit is optional. In terms of fuel efficiency, the MT delivers 22.35kmpl while the AMT returns 22.94kmpl.
