Suzuki has just launched the new Baleno in Australia with prices starting at AU$15,990 (Around Rs 8 lakh) for the entry-level manual trim. With this new model, Suzuki is targeting traditional small car buyers along with current Swift owners looking to step up into a larger hatch.
Looking nearly identical to the local model, the Aussie-spec car is powered by a 1.4-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine. Producing 92bhp of power and 130Nm of torque, this is the same petrol unit that powers the Ciaz sedan. Suzuki is offering 5-speed manual and 4-speed auto with this trim.
The Baleno GLX Turbo, on the other hand, is powered by relatively new 1-litre BoosterJet turbocharged 3-cylinder petrol engine with 110bhp and 160Nm of torque. Here you only get a 6-speed automatic option.
The Baleno range in Australia is priced between AU$15,990 (Rs 8 lakh) and AU$22,900 (Rs 11.5 lakh). As for the Indian market, Maruti Suzuki is planning the Baleno RS with the same BoosterJet engine, which will be introduced sometime during the festive season.