Looking to buy the Maruti Suzuki Baleno? Facelift spotted testing
Spotted testing in India, the Maruti Suzuki Baleno facelift hints at subtle design tweaks and feature updates, as the popular premium hatchback prepares to stay competitive against rivals like the Hyundai i20 and Tata Altroz.
The facelifted version of the Maruti Suzuki Baleno has been spotted testing on Indian roads for the first time, signalling that the hatchback is gearing up for a mid-cycle refresh. Originally launched in 2022, the second-generation Baleno appears set to receive subtle design tweaks while retaining its core mechanical and interior layout.
Subtle exterior revisions take shape
Spy images of the camouflaged test mule indicate a refreshed front-end design. The most noticeable change is a sleeker grille, seemingly accented by a slim chrome strip stretching between the headlights. The headlamp units themselves appear unchanged, continuing with projector LED setups and the signature boomerang-shaped DRLs.
Interestingly, the test car appears to miss out on fog lamps, which are currently positioned on the front bumper in the existing model. The side profile remains largely identical, including the 16-inch alloy wheels seen on mid-spec variants. At the rear, the hatchback retains its familiar silhouette with wraparound LED tail-lamps, a roof spoiler and rear wiper, although a mildly redesigned bumper could be introduced to freshen things up.
Cabin likely to get minor updates
Inside, the overall dashboard layout appears to be carried over from the current model. The test mule features the same trapezoidal AC vents, a 9-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system, and a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel.
However, Maruti could introduce new upholstery, revised trims and a refreshed colour theme to elevate the cabin experience. Feature additions could also be on the cards, with possibilities including ambient lighting and a sunroof, features already offered by competitors like the Hyundai i20 and Tata Altroz.
Powertrain options expected to remain unchanged
Mechanically, the facelift is unlikely to bring major changes. The existing 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, producing 88hp and 113Nm is expected to continue with both 5-speed manual and AMT options. The CNG variant, delivering 76bhp and 98.5Nm with a manual gearbox, is also likely to be retained.
Launch and positioning
While an official launch timeline has not yet been confirmed, the updated Baleno is expected to arrive with a marginal price increase over the current model. Upon launch, it will continue to rival the likes of the Toyota Glanza, Tata Altroz and Hyundai i20.
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The facelifted version of the Maruti Suzuki Baleno has been spotted testing on Indian roads for the first time, signalling that the hatchback is gearing up for a mid-cycle refresh. Originally launched in 2022, the second-generation Baleno appears set to receive subtle design tweaks while retaining its core mechanical and interior layout.
Subtle exterior revisions take shape
Spy images of the camouflaged test mule indicate a refreshed front-end design. The most noticeable change is a sleeker grille, seemingly accented by a slim chrome strip stretching between the headlights. The headlamp units themselves appear unchanged, continuing with projector LED setups and the signature boomerang-shaped DRLs.
Interestingly, the test car appears to miss out on fog lamps, which are currently positioned on the front bumper in the existing model. The side profile remains largely identical, including the 16-inch alloy wheels seen on mid-spec variants. At the rear, the hatchback retains its familiar silhouette with wraparound LED tail-lamps, a roof spoiler and rear wiper, although a mildly redesigned bumper could be introduced to freshen things up.
Cabin likely to get minor updates
Inside, the overall dashboard layout appears to be carried over from the current model. The test mule features the same trapezoidal AC vents, a 9-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system, and a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel.
However, Maruti could introduce new upholstery, revised trims and a refreshed colour theme to elevate the cabin experience. Feature additions could also be on the cards, with possibilities including ambient lighting and a sunroof, features already offered by competitors like the Hyundai i20 and Tata Altroz.
Powertrain options expected to remain unchanged
Mechanically, the facelift is unlikely to bring major changes. The existing 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, producing 88hp and 113Nm is expected to continue with both 5-speed manual and AMT options. The CNG variant, delivering 76bhp and 98.5Nm with a manual gearbox, is also likely to be retained.
Launch and positioning
While an official launch timeline has not yet been confirmed, the updated Baleno is expected to arrive with a marginal price increase over the current model. Upon launch, it will continue to rival the likes of the Toyota Glanza, Tata Altroz and Hyundai i20.
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