Suzuki launch new Baleno hatchback

SUZUKI is well known globally for its expertise in small cars and the new Baleno hatchback is its latest example. Since launching its first car in 1955, the Suzulight, Suzuki has produced a vast range of significant models each tailored to the needs of its time.

Historically, Suzuki has earned high acclaim for its stylish, city oriented designs, compact and easy to manage dimensions while also offering good performance, favourable fuel economy and low emissions.

Baleno introduces a ‘Liquid Flow’ design theme and with its compact body, roomy interior and efficient powertrains all on a new generation platform. Baleno offers style, utility, and fun driving performance combined with good fuel efficiency.

A larger car than Swift at 3.99 metres long, Baleno offers a more rational choice for buyers looking for extra interior space and a larger boot capacity but may not be looking to move up in size to a Vitara or S- Cross. Baleno offers the best tandem distance in its class which is the measurement taken between the front and rear seats.

The new Baleno is produced in India where Suzuki has a long-established reputation and a major presence for more than 30 years.

In 2015, 1.3 million cars were manufactured in Suzuki’s two Indian plants and the current share for the passenger vehicle market is a very impressive 48 per cent (April 2016). The production line for Baleno is at Maruti Suzuki’s Manesar plant in Haryana.

Baleno will eventually be exported to more than 100 countries and the most recent introduction was to the Japanese domestic market with sales launch in numerous countries in Europe following soon after.

The ‘Liquid Flow’ design theme of Baleno evokes an energetic mass of liquid in motion, using curving lines, expressive surfaces and a low and wide silhouette helps underline a strong and compelling look.

Depending on variant and transmission, kerb weight ranges from 935kg to 980kg making it the lightest ‘B’ segment hatchback amongst its competitors – in one case by more than 200kg.

Thanks to this new platform strategy and development of the body shape, Baleno is also the most aerodynamic car that Suzuki has ever produced with a drag coefficient of just 0.299.

After the debut of Boosterjet in the Vitara S, the engine technology continues for the new Baleno model with an all new 1.0-litre three cylinder version. Offering the same level of power and torque of a much larger capacity normally aspirated engine (1.8-litre), it delivers an effortless drive and genuine driving pleasure.

This unit has an output of 111PS and is also Direct Injection turbocharged (DITC). The new engine has very compact dimensions and offers 170Nm of torque available from 2,000rpm through to 3,500rpm. The optional six speed automatic transmission equipped model offers 160Nm of torque and is available slightly earlier at just 1,500rpm through to 4,000rpm.

Boosterjet technology is developed by Suzuki and is characterised by improved fuel efficiency and driving pleasure made possible by using a small displacement, high torque turbocharger.

The new 1.0-litre engine employs six-hole fuel injectors and high tumble port technologies to inject fuel with a high combustion efficiency to provide greater fuel economy and improved power output.

The latest Boosterjet engine for Baleno has been developed with Suzuki’s ethos of reducing weight and size with added response and smooth power delivery to achieve the characteristics Suzuki engines are well renowned for.

This engine also utilises a variable fuel pressure control system that optimises the amount of fuel injection according to driving conditions. This helps promote fuel atomisation and also improves fuel combustion efficiency.

Pricing for the Baleno ranges from €17,995 to €18,995.