Maruti Baleno to Get a Significant Update - New Hyundai i20 Effect?

With the Diwali around the corner, Maruti Suzuki has just dropped a new teaser for its popular product, the Baleno along with a tagline “A big surprise is coming soon!” While it remains unknown what “surprise” refers to, some rumours suggest that there could be a new variant added to the Baleno’s range. The upcoming update will be released just days from the introduction of the new Hyundai i20. 

According to some recent reports, Maruti Suzuki can bring back the turbo-petrol variant of the Baleno in India. Previously, the carmaker offered the performance-oriented RS version of the Baleno which also employed a punchy 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine good for 100 PS of max power and 150 Nm of peak torque. Sadly, the Maruti Baleno RS had witnessed a poor demand from the Indian buyers and was discontinued then.

However, it is worth noting that the small-capacity turbocharged petrol models are gaining good traction among the buyers in recent time, the return is the Baleno 1.0-litre turbo makes senses. It is also logical considering that the Baleno’s biggest rivals like the new Hyundai i20 and VW Polo are offering just the same while the Tata Altroz is working on it. Therefore, to stay competitive in the segment, Maruti Suzuki might reintroduce the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine on the Baleno.

In the meantime, there are a few other speculations on the teaser as well. It’s possible that Maruti Suzuki is working on the CNG variant of the Baleno to cater to the demands of those who would like to enjoy the premium-ness of the Baleno alongside the lower fuel costs. Also, some assume that it could be the new electrified variant of the Baleno. Since the company did drop a hint at the arrival of the Maruti Swift Hybrid previously, the same powertrain option could make it to the Baleno as well. Lastly, there’s a possibility that Maruti Suzuki is working to introduce a new Limited Edition of the Baleno with additional bells and whistles for the festive season. Further details will be updated by IndianAuto soon.