Maruti Suzuki has upgraded the Baleno hatchback to meet BS-VI emission norms. All its cars will slowly be upgraded to the new emission norms ahead of the April 2020 deadline. Prices start at Rs 5.58 lakh going to Rs 8.98 lakh ex-showroom.
The car gets two engine variants in its petrol form, the regular 1.2 litre variant and a 1.2 litre dual-jet (two-injectors per cylinder) which also has a smart-hybrid system for better fuel efficiency. It will be offered with five-speed manual and CVT automatic transmission options.
The Delta and Zeta variants of the car can be bought with the dual-jet smart hybrid system, while the other variants get the 1.2 litre petrol motor.
The dual-jet system employs two fuel-injectors per cylinder instead of one, for more precise injection of fuel. It continues to have four-valves per cylinder (two intake and two exhaust). This ensures a more efficient combustion process, leading to lower emissions and higher fuel efficiency.
Maruti has upgraded the exhaust system, a whole array of sensors and the software on the car to meet BS-VI emission standards. In addition, it has added the “smart-hybrid” system (SHVS), which consists of a starter-generator and additional lithium-ion battery to assist the engine with up to 30 percent extra torque, leading to fuel savings. It can recuperate some of the electric power during braking or decelerating.
Incidentally, this is the first petrol vehicle from Maruti to get the SHVS tech, which till now was offered on the company’s diesel line-up only.
The Baleno continues to be a popular premium hatchback, selling an average of 10,000 units a month. All variants now get full safety kit including dual airbags, ABS, parking sensors, speed warning and seat-belt warnings.
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