Boosterjet engine not part of Maruti's immediate plan.
A NEXA outlet in the city of Bengaluru has displayed a banner on its website saying the Baleno is 'coming soon'. Previously, reports mentioned that Maruti will launch the premium hatchback towards the end of October, in the midst of the festive season.
This also confirms previous reports that the Baleno will be the second product to be sold through the NEXA chain of dealerships, which currently retail only the S-Cross.
The Baleno for the Indian market will see a 1.2-liter K-Series petrol engine and a 1.3-liter DDiS diesel engine; the 1.0-liter Boosterjet turbocharged engine will not be on offer, at least initially. The K-Series petrol is expected to be paired to a CVT and a 5-speed manual, whereas the diesel will get a manual transmission only. However, Maruti's fuel-saving tech, SHVS, is likely to be available with the diesel engine.
Also read: Maruti Alto 800 vs Renault Kwid vs Hyundai Eon – Comparo
At 3,995 mm in length, 1,745 mm in width and 1,470 mm in height (1,460 mm with the SHVS tech), the Baleno will rival the likes of the Hyundai Elite i20, Honda Jazz and the VW Polo. Features like smart entry with an engine starter button, automatic climate control, Maruti's SmartPlay entertainment system, dual front airbags, ABS, EBD, projector headlights and LED daytime running lights are expected to be seen on the Baleno.
