Buying a used Maruti Baleno: What to look out for

GOOD FOR: Easy to drive, Spacious interior

LOOK OUT FOR: AMT gearbox health, Infotainment issues

The second-generation Baleno was launched in February 2022, and being largely based on its predecessor, it offered a roomy and comfortable cabin, refined and efficient powertrains and light controls, making it easy to drive. As such, the Baleno makes for a compelling used buy for family oriented buyers. Here’s what you need to consider.

Maruti Suzuki Baleno powertrain and mileage

Petrol and CNG options with manual or AMT

The Baleno is powered by a 90hp, 113Nm, 1.2-litre, four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine that is paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed AMT. Maruti Suzuki also added a CNG version later on, which is powered by the same engine; power drops to 77hp and 98.5Nm, and it comes only with the manual gearbox.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the petrol manual is ARAI-rated at 22.35kpl, while the AMT version returns 22.94kpl. The CNG, meanwhile, is said to do 30.61km/kg. While we haven’t tested the Baleno, we have subjected its Toyota twin, the Glanza, to our real-world fuel efficiency tests. In our tests, the petrol-manual returned 13.80kpl and 17.50kpl, while the AMT returned 11.86kpl and 17.21kpl, in city and highway conditions, respectively.

Go for the CNG only if you drive a lot and need the lower running costs. But do note, this comes at the cost of boot space, which is taken up by the CNG tank. Otherwise, one of the petrols makes more sense as they’re efficient and will be more affordable. The petrol also comes with the added convenience of the AMT automatic, which is ideal for city commutes.

Maruti Suzuki Baleno variants and features

9-inch touchscreen, HUD, 360-degree camera, 6 airbags

The Baleno is offered in four trims – Sigma, Delta, Zeta and Alpha. As for features, the range-topping Alpha comes with a 9.0-inch touchscreen with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa support, voice commands, ‘Suzuki Connect’ connected car tech, a heads-up display (HUD), a 360-degree camera, auto-dimming IRVM, keyless entry and go, auto climate control, an Arkamys surround sound system, auto LED headlamps, 16-inch alloy wheels and 6 airbags. It’s always best to go for the top-spec as you get all the goodies, but even the mid-spec Zeta comes well-equipped. And if you have budget constraints, the Zeta trim has the basics covered.

At launch, the Baleno was offered with a standard warranty of 2 years/40,000km, while the Toyota Glanza came with 3 years/1,00,000km. However, since July 2024, Maruti has also upped the standard warranty to match Toyota’s, and buyers could even extend it up to 6 years/1.6 lakh km. It’ll be worth looking for an example still covered under warranty for that extra peace of mind. Being a Maruti, spare parts will be easily available and affordable, and it’s nice to know that you’re also backed by Maruti’s extensive service network across the nation

What to look out for in a used Maruti Baleno?

AMT gearbox

AMT automatics are generally reliable, but it’s still best to check the health of the gearbox before you decide to take the plunge. Take a test drive and ensure that the car’s creep function is working well, it rolls off the line smoothly, and the shifts (especially downshifts) aren’t jerky.

Touchscreen issues

Baleno owners have faced problems with the touchscreen infotainment system. Issues include the screen lagging, freezing, randomly muting and failing to pair with a phone for Android Auto/Apple CarPlay connectivity. Check that the system’s software is up to date and that the touchscreen functions smoothly before you make the purchase.

Also worth knowing

Balenos manufactured between December 8, 2022, and January 12, 2023, were recalled due to a faulty airbag controller. Maruti inspected and replaced the airbag control unit free of cost, so if you’re looking at a car from this time frame, ensure this has been taken care of.

Second hand Maruti Suzuki Baleno price, resale value

Rs 5.5 lakh-7.5 lakh

Given that it’s a Maruti and it’s still on sale, the Baleno commands a high price in the used market. However, there are loads of examples on sale, so you’ll be able to find one at the right price with some due diligence. However, don’t look to spend over Rs 7.5 lakh as you’d be better off buying a new one instead.

Maruti Suzuki Baleno: Factfile