The next-gen Maruti Suzuki Baleno will utilise an in-house developed range-extending hybrid system that will offer over 35 kmpl claimed mileage
Maruti Suzuki is reported to introduce the next generation Baleno in 2026 and it will be one of the five upcoming hybridised models. The premium hatchback has been well received by customers since its market debut in late 2015 and a couple of years ago, it gained a big update. The Baleno is currently sold in 1.2L K series petrol and 1.0L turbo Boosterjet petrol engine options.
The five-seater is based on the Heartect platform and is one of the best-sellers in the country. Maruti Suzuki already has mild-hybrid cars in its portfolio and the two strong hybrid models available are the Grand Vitara and Invicto. Both use the same hybrid technology sourced from Toyota that is also employed in the Urban Cruiser Hyryder and Innova Hycross.
However, the next-gen Maruti Suzuki Baleno will be equipped with a hybrid system developed by the Indo-Japanese manufacturer. Maruti Suzuki aims to introduce hybridised mass-market vehicles, with plans to develop the technology in-house to ensure competitive pricing. The system, known as HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle), will encompass a petrol engine that will act as a range extender.
The petrol mill will play a role in extending the vehicle’s range but won’t directly propel it. Instead, it will generate electricity to power the electric motor, which in turn drives the wheels. The electric motor draws power from either a battery pack or the generator, with the engine serving as the generator in this setup.
This system bears a resemblance to the e-Power technology seen in Nissan vehicles worldwide. Since only the electric motor propels the wheels, the overall mechanism is simpler compared to traditional strong hybrid models. This simplicity translates to lower maintenance and production costs.
The Fronx facelift is bound for 2025 and it will be the first model to get the locally developed HEV system. It will be followed by the next-gen Baleno in 2026 with an estimated annual production of 60,000 units. Codenamed YTA, the hatchback will feature a 1.2L Z series petrol engine that will debut in the new-gen Swift and Dzire this year.