Launched in 2022, the second-generation Maruti Baleno is due for a mid-cycle update, and a camouflaged test mule of what looks like the Baleno facelift was recently spotted testing for the first time in India. In terms of changes, the test mule features a revised front fascia with a new grille and a redesigned front bumper. The interior design, however, looks the same as the existing model.
- A sleeker grille could be spotted, but fog lamps are missing
- Dashboard of the spied mule is similar to the current model
- Powertrains are expected to be identical to the existing Baleno
Maruti Baleno facelift test mule: What was spotted?
A sleeker grille, identical headlights and silver alloy rims could be seen
Spy shots suggest that the Baleno facelift could get a redesigned fascia with a sleeker grille design, featuring what looks like a slim chrome bar running from one headlight to another. The headlights, however, are identical to those on the currently available model, with projector LED lamps and boomerang-shaped DRLs. The LED fog lamps, which are placed on the bumper of the existing Baleno, seem to have been omitted from the test mule.
In profile, it features the same 16-inch alloy wheels offered with the one-below-top Zeta trim of the current-spec Baleno. Interestingly, the front and rear windscreens feature a camouflage section where CNG stickers are normally affixed. In the existing Baleno too, CNG is offered till the Zeta trim, which hints that Maruti was testing a CNG-powered, non-fully-loaded model.
The test mule’s rear design looks similar to the existing model, with the same wraparound LED taillights with pixel-shaped lighting elements, a roof-mounted spoiler and a rear wiper. However, a revised rear bumper could also be offered to make the facelifted model look newer than the current Baleno.
Dashboard design is identical to the current model
A glimpse of the facelifted hatchback’s interior suggests an identical dashboard design with trapezoid-shaped aircon vents, a 9-inch free-standing touchscreen infotainment system, and a 3-spoke steering wheel with mounted buttons. That said, Maruti is likely to offer a new interior theme and some revised materials with the facelift to make the Baleno look fresh and premium.
Amenities like an analogue instrument panel with a coloured multi-information display, automatic climate control, and a head-up display are expected to be carried over to the facelifted model. New features like a single-pane sunroof and ambient lighting offered by the Tata Altroz and Hyundai i20 rivals could also make their way to the Maruti offering.
Maruti Baleno facelift powertrain options
Expected to get the same powertrain options as the current-spec Baleno
The current Baleno is offered with a 1.2-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine that produces 90hp and 113Nm, with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed AMT option. It is also offered with a 77.5hp, 98.5Nm CNG option with a manual gearbox only. These powertrain options are expected to be carried forward to the facelifted model as well.
While the launch timeline of the Maruti Baleno facelift is yet to be revealed, it is expected to command a small premium over the current model, which is priced from Rs 5.99 lakh to Rs 9.10 lakh (ex-showroom). It will continue to lock horns with the Hyundai i20, Tata Altroz and Toyota Glanza.
Prices are ex-showroom, India.
Suraj Viswanathan
Dhruv Dhaka
Uday Singh
Glenn Noronha
