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Thanks to stricter emissions and need for better fuel economy manufacturers are forced to make their engines smaller and more efficient. But car buyers are a demanding lot and while fuel economy is important, average performance is unacceptable. But with advancement in technology some manufacturers have managed to deliver on both fronts. Volkswagen came out with the advanced 1.2 Tsi first, then came the 1.0-litre Ecoboost engine in the Ford EcoSport and now India’s largest car manufacturer has entered the fray.
Maruti unveiled the Baleno RS at the Auto Expo and thankfully the changes are not just down to body skirts and other gaudy cosmetic additions. The Baleno RS will also boast of a new three cylinder 1.0-litre turbocharged engine. Christened the Boosterjet, this newly developed 998cc direct-injection turbo engine produces a very impressive 110bhp of power and 170Nm of torque. This is a high-tech motor and apart from having direct injection it also employs a big turbocharger for added power and torque. To put things into perspective the K10 engine which does duty in the Alto also displaces 998cc but makes 42bhp less and is 80Nm down on torque. Apart from making more power the turbocharger is also designed to make the motor as fuel efficient as possible. By controlling the wastegate valve which closes to create higher boost pressure during heavy-load operation and remains opened during normal driving, it reduces pumping loss, thus achieving good level of both performance and also fuel-efficiency.
This engine combined with the lightweight body of the Baleno will surely make this Maruti one of the quickest hatchbacks in the country. Unfortunately, we have to wait till Diwali to experience Boosterjet fireworks.
Engine Specification
Fuel – Petrol
Displacement – 3 cylinder, 998cc, direct injection, turbocharged petrol
Bore/Stroke – 73.0/79.5mm
Power – 110bhp at 5500rpm
Torque – 170Nm at 2000-3500rpm
Gearbox – 5-speed manual
