Maruti Suzuki has finally launched the go-fast version of the Baleno. Available in a single range-topping Alpha trim, the Baleno RS price is Rs 8.69 (ex-showroom, New Delhi).
This go-fast version of the Baleno is an important model for the automaker, since the RS is officially introducing Suzuki’s Boosterjet family of turbocharged petrol engines in India. The ‘RS’ label stands for ‘Road Sport’ at Maruti Suzuki.
Prices And Rivals
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno RS undercuts both its direct rivals – the Volkswagen Polo GT TSI and the Abarth Punto. Its aggressive pricing is the outcome of a high level of localisation in the manufacture of parts (India is the sole manufacturing hub for the nameplate).
Power, Design & Safety
In case you don’t know yet, the Baleno RS is powered by a 1.0-litre three-cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine from the Boosterjet series. The engine puts out 102PS of max power at 5,500rpm and 150Nm of peak torque between 1,700-4,500rpm. It is mated to a five-speed manual transmission. This makes it the most powerful petrol-powered Maruti in the country.
The Baleno RS comes with a sportier-looking, redesigned front and rear bumpers, along with body skirts. It also receives a new mesh grille, while the chrome elements are identical to the regular Baleno. The alloy wheels are carried over, but are painted black, like in the Ignis.
Other features include Bi-xenon headlamps with LED DRLs, LED tail lamps with graphics, 7.0-inch Suzuki SmartPlay infotainment system with Apple CarPlay support (interestingly, the cheaper Ignis gets Android Auto support with the same unit), UV cut glass, auto AC, and others.
In terms of safety, the Baleno RS comes with dual front airbags, along and ABS (anti-locking braking system) with EBD (electronic brakeforce distribution). It also comes with a rear-view camera, along with rear parking sensors and ISOFIX child seat mounts.
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