The Baleno name was last used by Maruti in 2006 for the mid-size sedan.
CarBlogIndia has snapped the soon-to-launch Maruti Baleno on test, with spyshots indicating it to be a top-end variant. The presence of alloy wheels (likely 16-inch ones), projector headlights, a rear spoiler and wash/wipe indicate that the Baleno seen here could be the top-end Z or Z+ variant.
As reported earlier, the 'Baleno' name will make a comeback in India this festive season, when Maruti launches the premium hatchback which went by the codename 'YRA'. The Baleno will be positioned above the Swift, as an alternative to the Hyundai Elite i20, Honda Jazz and the VW Polo.
Measuring 3,995 mm in length, 1,745 mm in width and 1,470 mm in height (1,460 mm with the SHVS technology), the Baleno for the Indian market will borrow its engines from the Swift. These include a 1.2-liter K-Series petrol engine, paired to a 5-speed manual and a CVT, and a 1.3-liter DDiS diesel matched to a 5-speed manual gearbox. The diesel could also get the SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) micro-hybrid system, which was introduced on the Ciaz recently.
Also read: Maruti Suzuki S-Cross – 2015 Nepal Auto Show Live
According to many reports, the Baleno will be the second car to be sold from Maruti's premium range of NEXA dealerships.
2016 Suzuki Baleno - Image Gallery
[Spypics from CarBlogIndia]
