Suzuki has released the pictures of its Baleno hatchback ahead of the global premiere at the 66th Frankfurt Motor Show starting on 15 September.
Showcased as the iK-2 concept earlier at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, the Baleno hatchback codenamed YRA has taken design cues from the popular Swift. The design of the headlamp and blacked-out A-Pillar are clearly inspired by the Swift. However, the hatchback has a prominent shoulder line and lowered stance than the Swift.
The grille is similar to that seen in the spy shots. The bumper sports a large air dam flanked by fog lights. The car sports beefed-up wheel arches and ORVM's with integrated turn indicators. It measures 4,023mm in length, 1,920mm in width and 1,450mm in height with a wheelbase of 2,520 mm.
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.
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 that the Swift and is estimated to cost around Rs 7.5 to 9 lakh.
The Baleno moniker is not new to India. Maruti Suzuki's Baleno sedan wasn't a volume seller. However, it was a tremendous success in the Indian market with many of such cars still competing in the Indian Rally Championship.
The car is expected to arrive in India for the 2016 Auto Expo.
