Maruti Suzuki reportedly started the production of the Baleno hatchback a couple of days back. The commencement of production indicates a launch during the festive season ahead.

According to gaadiwaadi.com, Maruti Suzuki has confirmed the India launch on 26 October ahead of Diwali. Meanwhile, the vehicle will have its global premiere at the 66th Frankfurt Motor Show, which started on 15 September.

The Baleno is the new premium hatchback from Maruti Suzuki. It measures 4,023mm in length, 1,920mm in width and 1,450mm in height with a wheelbase of 2,520 mm. The hatchback codenamed YRA has taken design cues from the popular Swift in headlamp design and in blacked-out A-pillar. The car sports beefed-up wheel arches and ORVM's with integrated turn indicators. The information on the interior is under wraps now. However, the Indian version is expected to come with Maruti's SmartPlay infotainment system.

Suzuki's newly-developed 1.0-litre Boosterjet direct injection turbocharged petrol engine will make debut with the Baleno hatchback. The engine features reduced displacement that will help the car attain better fuel efficiency. The diesel variant might get the same 1.3-litre DDiS diesel motors along with the SHVS mild hybrid system debuted with Ciaz hybrid.

The car will be positioned above the popular Swift and is likely to be the second product to be sold through the Nexa dealership. It will be costlier than Swift and is estimated to cost around Rs 7.5 to 9 lakh.

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