The 1,4-litre power unit from the previous version has made way for the gutsier K15B engine that also powers the Suzuki-built Toyota Starlet, Urban Cruiser and Rumuion.
The 16-valve petrol engine with variable valve timing and multi-point fuel injection is standard in Suzuki models such as the Jimny and Ertiga, with the output of 77 kW at 6 000 r/min and 138 Nm of torque at 4 400 r/min.
Suzuki engineers have shaved off a significant amount of weight thanks to the use of more high-tensile steel to bring the total vehicle weight to 955 kg. Subsequently, this gives the Baleno a power-to-weight ratio of 81 kW per tonne - and the company claims an average fuel consumption rating of 5,4 l/100 km for the five-speed manual transmission models and 5,7 l/100 km in the four-speed automatic transmission models.
"Crafted futurism" design
The global launch in February this year also introduced a new design language that Suzuki calls ‘Crafted Futurism’ and involves design elements such as a broad front air intake, a three-dimensional grille design and body lines that connect with the chrome brightwork.
Multi-layered dashboard design
The design also applies to the new interior, which has a multi-layered dashboard and more comfortable and contoured seats with higher-grade cloth upholstery.
The Suzuki Baleno GL manual and automatic versions flaunt climate control with rear air vents instead of the previously used air conditioning system. Additional tech upgrades include electronic and foldable side mirrors, cruise control and three USB ports (a Type-A port in front and a Type A and Type C port in the rear).
Additional standard features include remote central locking, rear parking sensors, a 12V accessory socket and a 7-inch full-colour infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity.
Safety and security in the GL specification comprise dual front crash bags, electronic stability programme (ESP), ISOFIX child seat anchors and an alarm and immobiliser as a standard. Hill Hold Assistance is standard on the Baleno, starting at the entry-level GL specification.
Moving up, the Baleno GLX offers a head-up display and a full 310-degree Round View Monitor with side, front and rear-mounted cameras that display a bird’s eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings when parking or manoeuvring at low speeds.
The GLX also has LED projector-style headlamps, LED daytime running lights and 16-inch polished alloy wheels. It also gains a second full-colour 4,2inch display in the instrument cluster, additional interior lighting in the footwells and luggage area, and a keyless system with a Start/Stop button.
To enhance safety, the Baleno added four more crash bags (front side bags and full-length curtain bags), bringing the total to six.
The vehicle has an overall length of 3 990 mm on a wheelbase of 2 520 mm. While the wheelbase is similar to its predecessor, the new Baleno’s suspension, steering, and drivetrain have been improved to offer a more engaging ride. TECT safety shell and platform are now more rigid despite the reduced weight.
Ample boot space
The luggage area can store up to 314 litres with a full-sized spare wheel. With the 60:40 split seats folded forward, the available storage space jumps to 1 057 litres.
The new Baleno retails with Suzuki’s 5-year / 200 000 km promotional mechanical warranty. It includes unlimited roadside assistance for the same period.
Pricing includes a 4-year / 60 000 km service plan and an anti-corrosion warranty of 6 years and unlimited kilometres. The Baleno has a 15 000 km service interval.
