Maruti Suzuki has made its debut in the affordable performance hatchback segment in India with the launch of the Baleno RS. But has the brand, which is known for making fuel-efficient and budget friendly cars, brought in an ideal car for an enthusiast? We have explained it in our review here. For now, you can check out the images of the car displayed at the launch event.
After unveiling it as a concept at the 2016 Auto Expo, the carmaker has launched the Baleno RS in India at Rs 8.69 lakh (ex-showroom New Delhi). As expected, the car is offered in only the top-end Alpha trim.
What's new on the RS is the 1.0-litre BoosterJet mill that churns out 101bhp of power and 150Nm of torque. It comes mated to a five-speed gearbox.
The direct injection helps in delivering 20 per cent more power than the conventional 1.2-litre petrol engine. At the same time, the torque is 30 per cent more as well as against its sibling.
The overall dimensions remain unchanged, but there are some cosmetic changes. This includes a reworked front and rear bumper making the car look a bit bigger and muscular.
The cars features projector headlamps with DRLs, while the grille also gets some chrome accents. Apart from the front lip, nothing much has changed.
The alloy wheel pattern remains the same, only with a new black finish. The side profile shows off the side skirt in a gun-metal finish. Then the car still stands 170mm above the ground.
At the back, there is a rear door spoiler and the rear bumper has been tweaked. It gets new black appliques to go with the overall sporty avatar.
Then the Baleno RS also gets a unique RS badging on the tail-gate. The car will be available in seven exterior body colour options.
The interior remains exactly the same as the standard Baleno. It continues to feature dual airbags and ABS as a standard safety fitment.
Maruti Suzuki has brought in the Baleno RS with an aim of providing an ideal car for driving in real world conditions, while also giving an enhanced power for performance enthusiasts.