Why we like the new Suzuki Baleno
Suzuki recently outsold a lot of its competition which is a massive milestone for the little brand. With quality products, a decent dealer network, and a team that believes in the brand, Suzuki is on a positive trajectory. Fitting then that they decided to introduce the latest Baleno, unfortunately, Toyota decided to introduce the new Starlet, a car based on the Baleno at the same time. Regardless, here is our evaluation of the new Suzuki Baleno.
Many of this design language’s foundational elements, such as the mix of organic and dynamic lines, large and striking lights and a purposeful stance, are a refinement of the Liquid Flow philosophy that was seen on the previous Baleno. The Suzuki designers then added new design elements, including a wider front air intake, a three-dimensional grille design and flowing body lines that connect with the chrome brightwork in one continuous swoop, that not only create a fresh new look for the Baleno, but also signals what is to come for other Suzuki models.
For the all-new model, Suzuki has added even more specifications to both the GL and GLX range. Most importantly, the boost in specifications was not only kept for the GLX model. In the Suzuki Baleno GL manual and automatic versions, Suzuki has added climate control with rear air vents instead of the previously used air conditioning system. The vents are mounted at the back of the new centre armrest with a storage box between the front occupants.
Other standard features on the GL model include remote central locking, rear parking sensors, a 12V accessory socket and of course the much-loved 7” full-colour Suzuki infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity. The infotainment system will display information from the in-built reverse camera, and it has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto built in. The system can be controlled from the controls on the leather-clad steering wheel.
In the Suzuki Baleno GLX, the number of luxuries is boosted to a level previously unheard of in this segment including first-in-segment features such as a head-up display, a full 360-degree Round View Monitor with side, front and rear-mounted cameras that display a bird’s eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings when parking or manoeuvring at low speeds. The new Head-Up Display offers an array of information from a pop-up screen than neatly retracts into the dashboard when not used.The 7” infotainment system found in the Baleno GL models is further replaced with a high-resolution 9” system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system also has added Smart Vehicle Alerts and of course Bluetooth connectivity with steering controls.
Apart from the additional luxuries, Suzuki has also replaced the 1.4 litre petrol engine of the previous-generation Baleno with a new 1.5-litre unit. This engine, which is also used in the Suzuki-built Toyota Starlet, Urban Cruiser and Rumion, and in Suzuki models such as the Jimny and Ertiga delivers a sprightly 77kW and 138Nm of torque. The Baleno has an average fuel consumption rating of 5.4l/100km for the five speed manual transmission models and 5.7l/100km in the four speed automatic transmission models.
Out on the road, the little Suzuki feels nimble and actually quite fun to drive. It has come a long way in terms of its driving characteristics which are now more aligned to that of a larger, more expensive vehicle. We found road noise levels to be relatively acceptable and the ride quite comfortable. Sure, one needs to explore the girth of the rev range when it is time to get going, however the engine seems to enjoy that.
Safety and security in the GL specification level are also very well taken care of with dual front airbags, electronic stability programme , ISOFIX child seat anchors and an alarm and immobiliser as standard. Hill Hold Assistance is also standard on the Baleno, starting at the entry-level GL specification. To add to the already high safety credentials of the Baleno GL, Suzuki has added four more airbags (front side airbags and full-length curtain airbags) for a total of six. GLX buyers also receive privacy glass as standard, and the rear-view mirror dims automatically.
Overall the Baleon is a solid little car that offers much in terms of value. It looks good, has all the tech and safety that customers these days desire.
