Maruti Suzuki has launched new Baleno in India, with prices starting at Rs 6.10 lakh, ex-showroom. Bookings have opened for a token amount of Rs 11,000. The updated premium hatchback brings a refreshed exterior, more features, Level 2 ADAS and a new Z12E petrol engine with improved fuel efficiency.
While Baleno retains its familiar overall proportions, Maruti has made substantial changes to the equipment package. Ventilated front seats, TPMS, wireless charging and an upgraded audio system are among the other additions.
Level 2 ADAS Is The Big Upgrade
One of the biggest talking points is the introduction of Level 2 ADAS, using both radar and camera. Features include Advanced Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Departure Prevention, High Beam Assist and Vehicle Sway Warning.
Standard safety equipment includes six airbags, ESP, ABS with EBD, Hill Hold Control, reverse parking sensors, Emergency Stop Signal, three-point seatbelts and seatbelt reminders. Tyre Pressure Monitoring System has now been added as well.
New NEXWave Grille, Revised Bumper
Exterior changes are concentrated around the front fascia. Baleno gets a new interpretation of NEXWave grille featuring a wider design, 3D patterns and horizontal chrome elements. Front bumper and lower grille have also been redesigned.
Other updates include a new chrome fender garnish and shark-fin antenna, while the existing LED DRL treatment continues. Buyers can choose from seven colours, including the newly introduced Enigmatic Teal. Dimensions remain compact at 3,990 mm long, 1,745 mm wide and 1,530 mm tall, with a 2,520 mm wheelbase.
Ventilated Seats, 9-Inch Touchscreen
Inside, Baleno gets a dual-tone cabin with piano-black inserts and leatherette upholstery. A notable addition is ventilated front seats.
There’s also a new Clarion premium sound system and Qi-certified wireless smartphone charger with active cooling. Higher variants continue to offer features such as a Head-Up Display and 360-degree camera.
Infotainment duties are handled by a 9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Suzuki Connect provides more than 40 connected-car functions.
Tyre sizes vary according to variant. Sigma and Delta get 185/65 R15 steel wheels, while Zeta, Alpha and Alpha (O) use larger 195/55 R16 alloy wheels.
New 1.2L Z12E Engine
The bigger mechanical change is the adoption of Maruti’s newer Z12E engine. The 1,197cc petrol motor develops 61 kW (82.93 PS) at 5,700 rpm and 112.4 Nm at 4,500 rpm. It comes with Idle Start-Stop and Dual VVT.
Transmission options comprise a 5-speed manual and AGS. Claimed mileage is 23.80 km/l with manual and 24.77 km/l with AGS. According to Maruti, efficiency has improved by 6.4% and 7.9%, respectively, over the predecessor.
Baleno CNG Continues
S-CNG version also uses 1,197cc Z12E engine, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. In CNG mode, output drops to 69.75 PS and 101.8 Nm, while claimed efficiency stands at 33.61 km/kg – a 9.8% improvement over the previous version. Fuel tank capacity is 37 litres for petrol, while CNG version additionally gets a 55-litre water-equivalent CNG tank.
With the update, Maruti has gone beyond a routine cosmetic refresh. Level 2 ADAS and ventilated seats are the headline additions, while Z12E engine brings improved efficiency. Starting at Rs 6.10 lakh, new Baleno continues to target buyers looking for a premium hatchback with a growing list of technology and convenience features.
