The Maruti Baleno, launched in October 2015, will get a facelift this fiscal year, debuting in India. IAB’s automotive illustrator Shoeb Kalania has created a rendering for an early preview of the updated Hyundai i20 rival's exterior design.
The 2019 Maruti Baleno will feature a few design adjustments, most of them concentrated at the front. The headlamps are expected to get move from HID projector to LED projector units. A new chrome accent for the radiator grille (thinner in the centre and thicker in the outer ends), more pronounced bumper with C-shaped angular outer ends and a new lower air intake are the other changes.
On the sides, the 2019 Maruti Baleno will wear new alloy wheels, while at the rear, the reverse light and turn signal light could also switch to LED technology for improved efficiency and illumination. The interior design is likely to remain as is. Refreshed textiles and trim, enhanced infotainment system and MID, and cruise control, a feature already available in the export-spec version, are probables.
The engine line-up should go through no changes. The petrol engine model uses the K12M 1.2-litre naturally aspirated engine coupled to a 5-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission. The diesel engine model employs the D13A 1.3-litre turbocharged engine paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. The fuel economy may remain unchanged: 21.4 km/l (petrol-MT)/21.4 km/l (petrol-CVT)/27.39 km/l (diesel-MT). The diesel engine model will go out of production by March 2020.
Also Read: Maruti Ciaz to get 1.5L diesel engine option soon, specs & mileage revealed
The Maruti Baleno currently costs INR 5.38 lakh*. With the facelift, its prices may go up to around INR 5.50 lakh*, making it costlier than the Hyundai i20 (INR 5.43 lakh* onwards).
A recent report said that Maruti Suzuki will launch the facelifted Baleno this month. However, with the all-new Wagon R scheduled for release on the 23rd, the updated hatch may not arrive before next month.
*ex-showroom Delhi
