The Maruti Baleno remains a top choice among premium hatchbacks thanks to its stylish design, smooth ride, and upscale features. Its recent updates and variant offerings cater to both performance and economy-conscious buyers. The interior of the Baleno is a perfect blend of functionality and aesthetics, with a contemporary dashboard design and comfortable front seats. The rear bench can accommodate three adults, and the 318-litre boot is suitable for short trips. However, the high loading lip makes boot access slightly awkward, and a larger seat squab would improve under-thigh support.
The Baleno is packed with features, including a 9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ HD touchscreen, Head-Up Display (HUD), auto headlamps, cruise control, and rear AC vents with USB ports. The Suzuki Connect features allow remote headlamp control, adding to the convenience. The 1.2-litre petrol motor delivers 88.5 bhp and 113 Nm of torque, and is available with both manual and AMT transmission options. The fuel economy is impressive, with 22.35 kmpl for manual and 22.94 kmpl for AMT, while the CNG variant offers an even better mileage of 30.61 km/kg.
The exterior design of the Baleno is characterized by sharp styling, projector headlamps, LED DRLs, alloy wheels, and LED tail lamps, giving it a sporty appeal. The addition of a rear spoiler further enhances its aggressive look. The plastic quality in the lower cabin could be improved, but overall, the design features help the Baleno maintain its premium image over its rivals.
The Baleno is priced between ₹6.70 lakh and ₹9.92 lakh (ex-showroom, Mumbai) and is available in various variants, including petrol and CNG fuel options, with manual and AMT transmission options. The recent price hike of up to ₹9,000 across the range is a consideration for potential buyers. However, the festive Regal Edition, launched during Diwali 2024, offers aesthetic and feature enhancements without a price increase. Overall, the Maruti Baleno remains a popular choice among premium hatchback buyers, offering a great combination of style, comfort, and performance.