The updated Maruti Suzuki Baleno will launch next month in India; no mechanical changes likely to be made
Maruti Suzuki India Limited has lined up the new generation Wagon R for debut on January 23 and it is expected to make a big impact with India-specific design elements, interior changes, feature additions and likely bigger dimensions for roomier cabin. The largest automaker in the country will also be silently launching the updated Baleno premium hatchback next month.
The Baleno has been around for more than three years in the market with huge success. It is the first real breakthrough from Nexa premium outlets and made way for other models to come. The Baleno takes on the highly established Hyundai Elite i20 and it made for absolutely closely encounters in monthly volume sales more often than not.
In recent times though, the Baleno has started distancing itself from the Korean hatchback in sales numbers and is looking to move up further with the minor update. The Baleno has averaged more than 18,000 unit sales monthly in the 11 months of 2018 so far and it is a regular feature in the top 10 sales table.
A few weeks ago, Maruti Suzuki announced Baleno of achieving five lakh unit sales milestone with 27 percent market share in A2 Plus segment. Maruti Suzuki does not have big intentions to introduce a comprehensive facelift on the Baleno yet and thus the minor changes including revised front bumper will keep the ball rolling in its favour.
The updated bumper has been showcased in our digital rendering and it enhances the look of the premium hatchback by a considerable amount. No mechanical changes are intended as the Baleno will continue to use 1.2-litre petrol and 1.3-litre diesel engines with same transmission options.
The Baleno is based on the Heartect platform and it will likely come with new standard safety features like high speed warning and speed sensing auto door lock. Maruti Suzuki will increase the prices across the range from January 2019 and thus the updated Baleno will see price hike as well.