Suzuki Baleno
Suzuki BalenoSuzuki

Maruti Suzuki has been working on a number of new models and one of the most anticipated models of the year is the Baleno RS.

The jazzed up version of the Baleno, the RS version will be powered by 1.0-litre Boosterjet turbo-petrol engine. But that is not the end of the story for Baleno. Emerging reports indicates Maruti Suzuki is also planning to launch Baleno's petrol version with SHVS mild-hybrid tech in 2017.

A report in Overdrive says that the SHVS mild hybrid system, that debuted with the Ciaz hybrid last year and later introduced to Ertiga hybrid, will be same in the Baleno hybrid. However, this will be the first petrol car from Maruti Suzuki's stable making using of the hybrid tech. The report also says the Baleno petrol hybrid will have different alloys as well as rear disc brakes.

Suzuki currently sells the Baleno diesel with the SHVS hybrid system in European markets. Hence, it would be easier for the company to incorporate the tech in India spec Baleno. The SHVS hybrid system makes use of lithium ion battery that gets charged with the help of re-generative braking. The system converts the kinetic energy of the rolling wheels into electricity for charging the battery. Combined with the idle stop/start system, the car will return increased fuel efficiency.

Maruti Suzuki sold 6,967 units of the Baleno in June 2016. The company has sold over 75,000 units of the car so far in India. The premium hatchback still has close to 45,000 bookings that are yet to be served. Maruti Suzuki is also planning to increase the production to meet the scaling demand. Currently, Maruti Baleno commands up to six months of waiting period.