Maruti Baleno facelift to arrive in H1 2019

- The updated Baleno will get cosmetic changes with added features.

- Will be the first major update since its introduction back in 2015.

- There will be no changes to the powertrain.

Maruti Suzuki introduced the Baleno back in October 2015 as a more premium hatchback positioned above the high-selling Swift. The Baleno became an instant success and was also the prime mover in the segment shift witnessed in the Indian car market recently. Now, after being on sale for three years, the Baleno is due for an update which is expected to arrive by the end of the first half of 2019 with cosmetic changes and added features.

The Baleno is made in India and is exported to international markets as well. It is based on the new Heartect platform and gets Maruti’s tried and tested 1.2-litre petrol and a 1.3-litre diesel engine options. The Baleno facelift is expected to arrive with a revised fascia which will include a tweaked grille, redesigned headlamp signature and an updated bumper design. Even at the rear, we expect a new lighting signature for the tail lamps and a slightly restyled bumper. Expect a new alloy wheel design and a new body paint as part of the update as well.

In terms of features, the current Baleno is a feature-rich hatchback already. Its feature list includes dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, seatbelt pre-tensioners with force limiters and ISOFIX as standard. However, with the facelift, we can expect additional equipment such as speed alert system, LED headlights, et al. We also expect a slight revision to the cabin as well.

The Baleno facelift will face a new competition next year in the form of Tata’s 45X Concept based hatchback. Apart from Tata’s upcoming premium hatchback, the Hyundai Elite i20, Honda Jazz (both of which received an update this year) and Volkswagen Polo will continue to compete with the updated Baleno in the B+ hatchback segment in India. We also expect the prices of the facelifted car to be slightly higher than the current model.