Maruti Suzuki Baleno Smart Hybrid: Explained in Detail

Maruti Suzuki has launched the new 1.2-litre Dualjet, Dual VVT BS-VI engine with next-generation Smart Hybrid technology in Baleno. This is the first BS-VI compliant model from Maruti Suzuki and will soon hit Nexa showrooms across the country. Here is everything you need to know about the Baleno Smart Hybrid – 

New engine:

The new K12C 1.2-litre petrol engine comes with Dualjet and Dual VVT compared to the standard K12B motor available until now. This motor produces slightly more power – 66kW compared to 62kW of the standard version. And thanks to the mild hybrid system it comes fitted with, it has a higher claimed fuel efficiency of 23.87kmpl. This new engine will be the most fuel efficient option when the good old 1.3-litre DDiS will cease to exist after the new emission norms kick in. 

Available in just two trims

At the moment, Maruti Suzuki has introduced the new Dualjet Smart Hybrid in just two trims – Delta and Zeta – and only with the manual transmission. Pricing for the Delta variant is Rs 7.25 lakhs and for the Zeta variant is Rs 7.86 lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi). These two variants with the new engine are dearer by Rs 89,000 compared to the same variants with the standard engine. Maruti has restricted introducing the new engine in other variants to keep the pricing strategic. But we expect that the carmaker will surely introduce it to the Alpha variant at a later date. Also, the CVT automatic transmission should also be available with the new engine. 

Engine details:

The new K12C engine has undergone both hardware and software updates along with a reworked exhaust system. The engine control software has been upgraded for more precise fuel injection control using various onboard sensors to ensure cleaner and durable emission control. To further aid fuel efficiency the new engine also comes with idle start-stop system as well as brake energy regeneration technology. The progressive Smart Hybrid Technology with Lithium-ion battery also comes with ‘torque assist function’. This system allows the stored energy in the lithium-ion battery to assist the engine during acceleration, thus delivering optimal pick-up and performance without compromising on fuel efficiency. The BS-VI compliant petrol engine also leads to a substantial reduction of nearly 25 per cent in Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) emissions.

What about the older engine?

Maruti Suzuki has confirmed that the already available 1.2-litre VVT petrol engine variants will also be BS-VI compliant and available in all variants including CVT.