Maruti has showcased the all-new Baleno premium hatchback at the Autocar Performance Show 2015. The Maruti Baleno made its international debut at the Frankfurt motor show before being launched in the Indian market a few days ago.
The new premium hatchback is a size up from the Swift and is also lighter. In terms of styling, the car gets a new V-shaped grille, compact headlamps similar to the Swift, 15 or 16-inch alloy wheels and a flowing design with its sloping roofline.
Inside, the car is spacious and offers a long list of equipment. The top-spec model comes equipped with Maruti’s SmartPlay infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and climate control, while ABS and airbags are standard across all variants.
Under the bonnet sits either a 1.2-litre K-series petrol engine or a 1.3-litre DDiS180 diesel motor (the same units as on the Swift) mated to a five-speed manual gearbox as standard. The option of a CVT unit is available on the petrol. Internationally, there is also a 110bhp 1.0-litre Boosterjet turbo petrol to be offered though its arrival to our shores is still a while away.
India is the first market to see the launch of the premium hatchback and is set to become the global manufacturing hub for the car.
Dipan Sur
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Suraj Viswanathan
