One of the hottest-selling hatchbacks in India, Maruti Suzuki Baleno is all set to get a facelift soon. This is important news for those who have been planning to buy the car, which hasn't seen any official modifications from the car maker's end since its launch in 2015.
The information comes from YouTuber Ujjwal Saxena, who learned that the official launch of the Maruti Baleno facelift will take place in India on January 27. According to RushLane, several changes can be expected in the new Baleno, ranging from new bumper design, interiors and safety features.
Maruti Baleno facelift will get projector headlamps with daytime running lights (DRLs), which will likely be seen for the tail lamps as well with a chrome outline. As in the case of any facelift, Maruti Baleno will also get new alloys, which will instantly grab attention.
The report highlights that the face-lifted design of Maruti Baleno will see a new bumper design and wider central airdam. The fog lamps in the new Baleno will also be moved closer to the headlamps and the front grille design will also be revamped.
As for the interiors, the 2019 Baleno will get speed alert system, seat belt warning and parking sensor. These features have been limited to the new Ciaz and Ertiga, but it looks like Maruti Suzuki is making the premium features standard across board. Joining the list of changes include rain sensing wipers, cruise control, auto headlamps. This is in addition to the dual airbags, ISOFIX child seat mounts and ABS that are already available in the current variant.
Besides the revamped exterior and interior, do not expect any changes to the engine. The new Baleno will be offered in 1.2-liter petrol and 1.3-liter diesel engines with 84PS and 75PS power, respectively. Both variants will come with 5-speed manual transmission, except for the petrol which will be additionally offered with CVT.
With these changes, expect the price of the 2019 Baleno facelift to be increased marginally. The current line-up starts at Rs 5.38 lakh and goes up to Rs 8.49 lakh (ex-showroom) in India. The premium hatchback will be competing against the likes of Hyundai i20 Elite, Honda Jazz and the upcoming Tata 45X concept.