Maruti Suzuki is set to launch the updated Baleno in India today, September 5. But this is not expected to be a simple facelift.
The new Baleno could bring several major changes, including a new petrol engine, Level 1 ADAS, upgraded features and a CNG-AMT option.
Here is everything you need to know before the updated premium hatchback arrives.
New Look Coming to the Baleno
The overall shape of the Baleno is expected to remain familiar, but Maruti Suzuki is likely to give the hatchback a fresher look.
The updated model could get a new grille, redesigned front bumper and new headlamps.
Fresh alloy-wheel designs are also expected.
There could even be a new lighting element connecting the headlamps.
At the rear, however, the changes are expected to be more limited.
Baleno Could Get ADAS for the First Time
One of the biggest changes could be the addition of Level 1 ADAS.
If introduced, the Baleno could become one of the more affordable hatchbacks in India to offer this driver-assistance technology.
Expected features include blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, safe-exit warning and front parking sensors.
However, these features are expected to be limited to the top-end Alpha (O) variant.
The cabin is also expected to receive an upgrade.
A larger 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system could be added, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Other expected features include wireless phone charging and ventilated front seats. The existing head-up display and 360-degree camera are also expected to remain.
New 1.2-Litre Petrol Engine Could Be the Biggest Change
The most important mechanical update could be under the bonnet.
Maruti Suzuki is expected to replace the current 1.2-litre four-cylinder K-Series petrol engine with its newer 1.2-litre three-cylinder Z12E petrol engine.
This engine is already used in the latest Swift and Dzire.
In those cars, the Z12E engine produces around 82 PS of power and 112 Nm of torque.
The Baleno is expected to get the engine with a 5-speed manual and 5-speed AMT gearbox options.
The new engine could help improve fuel efficiency, particularly for everyday city driving.
Although the Z12E engine has been developed with future hybrid applications in mind, Maruti Suzuki has not confirmed a hybrid version of the new Baleno.
CNG-AMT Could Be a Big Surprise
Another major addition could be a factory-fitted CNG-AMT version.
If Maruti introduces it, buyers could get the lower running cost of CNG along with the convenience of an automatic transmission.
Reports suggest the CNG-AMT could be offered with the Delta and Zeta variants.
A 5-speed manual CNG version is also expected.
However, Maruti has not yet confirmed the final mileage figures, boot-space changes or pricing for the CNG-AMT model.
What About the Turbo-Petrol Engine?
There has also been speculation that Maruti Suzuki could bring back the 1.0-litre BoosterJet turbo-petrol engine.
However, this has not been officially confirmed.
So, buyers should wait for Maruti Suzuki’s final announcement before considering the turbo-petrol engine as part of the new Baleno lineup.
Baleno Facelift Price: What to Expect
The current Maruti Suzuki Baleno starts at around ₹5.99 lakh (ex-showroom).
The facelift is expected to become slightly more expensive, especially the higher variants that receive additional technology and safety features.
With a new engine, ADAS, more premium features and a possible CNG-AMT option, the updated Baleno could be a much bigger upgrade than a regular facelift.
The final price and complete variant-wise feature list will be among the biggest things to watch at launch.
