A new Youtube video has revealed that the dealerships have already started showcasing the 2019 Maruti Baleno RS (facelift). The updated version of the company's only performance-focussed hatchback will be priced at INR 8.76 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).
Following the footsteps of the Baleno facelift, the 2019 Maruti Baleno RS (facelift) will feature an updated styling package and minor revisions for the interior. Additionally, the revised model receives additional safety kit to comply with the upcoming safety regulations.
The 2019 Maruti Baleno RS features a sportier front-end courtesy of a more aggressive bumper and slightly different chrome trim for the upper grille. The reshaped lower air intake, the larger side faux air intakes, and the bumper diffuser come together to lend a decidedly sporty touch to the car's front fascia. In the side profile, the refreshed model receives a set of dual-tone 16-inch alloy wheels.
The interior remains mostly unchanged, but it gets a new seat upholstery and new floor mats. Furthermore, the Bosch-sourced Smartplay infotainment unit of the pre-facelift model has been replaced with a Clarion-sourced Smartplay Studio unit. The revised safety suite comprises a speed alert system and co-driver SBR along with dual front airbags, ABS, speed-sensing door locks, ISOFIX child seat restraints, and disc brakes on all wheels.
Mechanically, the 2019 Maruti Baleno RS (facelift) stays true to the outgoing version. It draws its juice from the K10C 1.0-litre Boosterjet engine that is imported from Japan. The three-cylinder turbocharged motor benefits from direct injection and pumps out a maximum power of 75 kW (101.97 PS) at 5,500 rpm and a peak torque of 150 Nm at 1,700-4,500 rpm. The only transmission on offer is a 5-speed manual unit that drives the front wheels.
The Baleno RS offers an ARAI-tested fuel efficiency of 21.1 km/l, which is marginally lower than the 21.4 km/l that the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine of the regular version provides in the ARAI test cycle.
