Maruti Suzuki Baleno RS
Maruti Suzuki Baleno RSIBTimes India

Maruti Suzuki is all set to enter the hot hatch territory in India with the launch of the Baleno RS. The launch of the go-faster version of the Baleno is expected to take place in November.

Maruti Suzuki showcased the Baleno RS as the concept model at Auto Expo 2016 and the production reportedly comes with minor changes only. Mauti Suzuki will differentiate Baleno RS from the regular Baleno with sportier front and rear bumpers. The rear bumper will feature dual-toned scheme with faux diffusers. It will also get side skirts and new diamond-cut alloy wheels in dark shade.

The biggest talk point in the Baleno RS is the Boosterjet engine. This is the first turbo-petrol model from Maruti Suzuki. The mill is expected to dish out 11bhp and 170Nm of peak torque. It will be either mated to five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. Reports indicate that the automatic transmission option will also come with paddle shifters.

The dashboard of the Baleno RS will be identical to the regular model. The steering wheel will also be the same while the seats will get exclusive leather covers. The Baleno RS will flaunt features such as reverse camera, automatic climate control and 7-inch touchscreen SmartPlay entertainment system with Apple CarPlay.

The hot hatch will come with disc brakes for all four wheels. Apart from the Fiat Abarth Punto, this will be the only affordable hatchback in the country to be equipped with all-wheel disc brakes. The braking will be assisted by ABS, while dual airbags will be offered as standard.