Maruti Suzuki Baleno hatchback introduced with a new BSVI compliant engine and new hybrid technology

Team OD Updated: April 22, 2019, 12:40 PM IST

Earlier this month, A Maruti Suzuki Baleno was spotted on test with a hybrid badge. This time around, Maruti Suzuki has launched the Baleno hatchback with a new engine mated with the newest generation of the company's Smart Hybrid Technology. The update has hiked the price of the new Baleno by Rs 89,000 and the BSVI Baleno hatchback now starts at Rs 7.25 lakh.

The BSVI Baleno gets the new dual jet engine which is codenamed the K12C. The new engine gets two fuel injectors and two intake valves per cylinder as opposed to one fuel injector in the current Maruti Suzuki Baleno. This tech helps the engine run cleaner and a mild hybrid system is on offer with the Baleno for the first time. The hybrid system offered in the Baleno gets an updated torque assist function and an improved start-stop system. A brake energy regeneration system that recharges the lithium-ion battery under deceleration is on offer as well. The company claims a fuel efficiency number of 23.87 kmpl for the hybrid hatchback.

Alongside the hatch with a new drivetrain, the company will sell the older Baleno with K12B engine which has also been updated to meet the BSVI norms. The new car can be had only with a manual transmission so far, however, the company may offer the CVT in due course of time.

Introducing the BS VI compliant Baleno with Smart Hybrid, R S Kalsi, senior executive director, Marketing & Sales, Maruti Suzuki India, said "Baleno has been a blockbuster car from day one. We have over 5.5 lakh happy Baleno customers since its launch in 2015 and sold more than 2 lakh units in the last fiscal year. We recently upgraded Baleno with latest design and technology. At Maruti Suzuki, we strive to bring newer, better and environment-friendly technologies to our products. Baleno Smart Hybrid with BS VI stands testament to the same. We are confident that the premium hatchback Baleno will present a complete package in line with aspirations of evolving customers."