Along with the Baleno facelift, the sportier version ‘Baleno RS’ too gets an updated front fascia with all black chrome-less front grille
Maruti recently launched the facelifted version of the Baleno. The updated car comes with minor styling tweaks and additional features. It is priced at Rs 5.45-8.77 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). Along with launching the new Baleno, the company has also revealed the 2019 Maruti Baleno RS, which gets similar updates. We have learnt that it has been priced at Rs 8.76 lakh, which is a shade under the cost of the Baleno petrol CVT option.
Like the regular Baleno, the 2019 Maruti Baleno RS is costlier than the previous version. The earlier model had a price of Rs 8.47 lakh, which makes the new one Rs 29,000 costlier. Also, like the non-RS model, the performance-focused variant gets slight cosmetic changes and no updates for the specifications.
The 2019 Maruti Baleno will come with the same 1.0-litre Boosterjet turbocharged engine that powers the pre-facelift model. The three-cylinder petrol engine produces a healthy power output of 100 bhp and a peak torque of 150 Nm. It comes mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. The RS also gets an updated front suspension and has a slightly stiffer ride than the normal version.
Speaking of the cosmetic changes on the 2019 Maruti Baleno RS, they include a bolder front bumper, new alloy wheels, LED projector headlamps and a revised grille garnish. The interior is yet to be revealed but it should get changes similar to what the regular version comes with. These will include new seat covers and new ornamentation for the cabin.
The features list is likely to remain intact. The 2019 Maruti Baleno RS will come loaded with premium features like climate control, touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, push button start, multi-function steering wheel, reverse parking sensors with camera, and auto-dimming IRVM.
The 2019 Maruti Baleno RS will be a direct rival to performance-focused versions B-segment hatchbacks like the VW Polo GT TSI and Fiat Abarth Punto. The hot hatch makes for a great choice for all those who want some more juice from the Baleno.