Maruti is all set to introduce the new Baleno in the first quarter of 2007 after the launch of the new Zen. The new Baleno is a radical departure from the current model and, like the Swift, represents the new design philosophy at Suzuki. Eager to shed its dowdy image, Suzuki’s latest saloon (as seen in this scoop picture) is a sharp-looker aimed at pulling sales away from the Honda City.The new Baleno is substantially larger than the outgoing model and according to company sources is “as big as the Optra.”
Dimensions: Dimensions are not yet disclosed but Suzuki’s new saloon, which will use the same 2500mm wheelbase platform of the SX4, is expected to be extremely roomy and comfortable. Suzuki, along with engineers from Maruti, has focused on optimizing rear seat comfort with a different squab and backrest for the India-spec model. The dashboard is expected to be similar to the SX4, which is a well-crafted and modern design.
Console: A chunky central console which extends to the top of the dashboard has a useful multi-information display and a CD/MP3 player with integrated controls. The rotary air-con dials which have a particularly smooth and tactile action are similar to the Swift but come with faux-metal edges. Storage area is generous and the door pockets and cubbyholes in the central area are useful. Cabin materials and plastics, though not in the league of the Honda City, are expected to set a new standard for Suzuki and will come as welcome change from the current Baleno’s drab interiors.
Engine and Specs: The car comes with a 1.5-litre and 1.6-litre petrol as well as a 1.9- litre diesel sourced from Fiat. For the new Baleno, however, the current Baleno’s all-aluminium 1.6-litre 94bhp G16B engine may be used. However, it is also likely that the latest-generation 1.6 motor which develops upwards of 100bhp will be used if the new Baleno is to compete with the Optra and even the Corolla.
Price: Company sources indicate that the new Baleno will be aggressively priced and not too far from the current Baleno’s price tag. A base price of under Rs 7 lakh is an internal target and the company will localise parts heavily to bring down costs. Unlike Maruti’s earlier strategy of supplementing old models with new ones, the new Baleno is expected to replace the current model as a part of a model upgrade programme Maruti has embarked upon. A smaller saloon also based on the Swift platform is being developed and this model could eventually replace the Esteem.
From having the oldest model line-up in the market, Maruti now promises to have one of the freshest.