Maruti Suzuki recently updated the Baleno with new features, cosmetic changes and, most significantly, a new 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine. It is available with petrol and CNG powertrains, with manual and AMT gearbox options on offer, and is priced from Rs 6.10 lakh onwards. But does it have what it takes to be the right premium hatchback for you? Here are three reasons to consider the Baleno and two reasons why you may want to look elsewhere.
Pros
1. Spacious and well-equipped cabin
The Baleno has a spacious cabin, particularly at the rear, with ample headroom and legroom for tall passengers. The seats offer good cushioning and under-thigh support, while rear passengers get dedicated AC vents and USB charging ports. The 318-litre boot is useful for everyday needs, although the loading lip is high.
The equipment list is also a highlight, with the Baleno being the only in its segment to offer Level 2 ADAS and ventilated front seats. A head-up display is another useful addition, while the top-spec Alpha (O) also gets a 9-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone integration, automatic climate control, a cooled wireless charger and connected-car features. Six airbags and traction control are standard.
2. Refined engine with strong claimed fuel efficiency
The 1.2-litre three-cylinder Z-series petrol engine produces 83hp and 112Nm and is one of the more refined three-cylinder engines. It has good low-end response, smooth power delivery and is well suited to everyday city driving. Fuel efficiency is another strong point. The petrol-manual has a claimed 23.80kpl, while the AMT claims 24.77kpl. The CNG version is rated at 33.61km/kg, although these are claimed figures and real-world efficiency will be lower.
3. Comfortable ride and good high-speed composure
The Baleno’s soft suspension delivers an excellent low-speed ride, absorbing most road imperfections with ease. Only sharp bumps and large potholes tend to unsettle it, making the car particularly comfortable around town.
It also remains composed at higher speeds, with well-contained body movements. The steering is light at low speeds for easy manoeuvring and gains weight as speed increases, while body control is good through corners.
Cons
1. AMT can hesitate during quick overtakes
The five-speed AMT is reasonably smooth but has a noticeable head-nod between shifts. More importantly, it can take time to downshift when a quick overtake is required, resulting in hesitation. Manual mode helps by letting the driver select the required gear, while the five-speed manual itself is smoother and more satisfying to use, with a light clutch and short, well-defined shifts.
2. Outright performance is not its strength
The Z-series engine has good low-end response and smooth power delivery, but it lacks punch higher up the rev range. It is also less peppy than the older K-series engine, while its lower output and the new Baleno’s higher weight compared to its predecessor result in slower outright acceleration. For regular city driving, the engine is adequate and easy to use. However, buyers looking for stronger acceleration, particularly during highway overtakes, may find it lacking.
Uday Singh
Glenn Noronha
Dipan Sur
Aditya Panicker
