Suzuki has unveiled the next-generation Suzuki Baleno to selected media at an exclusive event in Johannesburg. AutoTrader was on hand to get the scoop.
At an exclusive event at the SASA head office in Johannesburg, the next-generation Suzuki Baleno was revealed, ahead of its official launch. We were on hand to get to know the model a little better and find out about the new features and updates we can expect to see when the model goes on sale in June this year.
The Suzuki Baleno has proven to be a popular choice, not only with local consumers but with larger brands as well. Yes, the very car that Toyota deemed fit for rebranding as the Starlet hails from the Suzuki stable, but you already knew that, didn’t you? That hasn’t stopped the Suzuki Baleno from achieving healthy sales numbers in the face of this adversity locally.
Now, 6-years after its initial release, the Baleno enters its second generation with revised styling, updated tech and a new drivetrain with additional shifting options for the South African market.
Styling and exterior
The new Baleno retains much of the ‘Liquid Flow’ design theme that helped place the first generation on the map with heavy revisions to the front end, headlights, taillights, C-pillar. The redesigned front end features a wider grille with a wavy grille element and a large Suzuki badge, still highlighted by the chrome garnish that joins the two front headlights. These units themselves feature LED projector elements (GLX derivative) along with LED Daytime running lights and are complemented by the LED foglamps situated lower in the bumper.
The New Baleno rides on 16-inch alloy wheels when in GLX trim and has LED elements in the redesigned taillights as well. These taillights are once again joined by a chrome garnish to help add the impression of width.
Speaking of such, the overall dimensions remain roughly the same with the wheelbase only changing by 5mm and the new Baleno riding slightly lower than before. Its width remains unchanged. The new Baleno is still built on the modular HEARTECT platform as before with improved NVH levels for the new generation.
Interior and tech
A fresh new interior awaits customers of the new Baleno with more tech and convenience than ever before, especially in range-topping GLX trim. GLX customers will not only revel in the new interior with quality trimming but will be treated to a new 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. This unit also contains a vehicle information display and acts as the screen and interface for the new 360-degree surround camera system with an augmented reality view. This is a rather massive step for the segment and price range and will see the Baleno offering tech that is usually only found on higher-end vehicles.
A heads-up display for the driver will give them critical vehicle and travel info including speed, gear selection, engine speed, fuel economy, and junction navigation. Keyless push-button start, 6-airbags, a colour information display, and automatic climate control with rear venting for passengers rounds off the interior enhancements.
While the GLX may be the range-topper, Suzuki is aiming to make the GL variant even more valuable for the price-conscious buyer. GL variants will see a specification upgrade to include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment unit with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, cruise control, auto climate control, hill-hold assist, 3x USB sockets, electric windows and mirrors, as well as dual airbags with ESP, ABS and Brake Assist.
Powertrain
One of the big advances is the switch to the K15B 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine that Suzuki ensures us is superior to the market competitors in terms of power-to-weight. Replacing the outgoing 1.4-litre unit, the new K15B produces 9 kW more than the old engine and 8 Nm more. This gives the new Baleno output figures of 77 kW and 138 Nm torque. Combined with the kerb weight of 955 kg, the Baleno has of the best power-to-weight figures in the price range and segment, according to Suzuki. Time will tell if the altitude losses up at the Reef will still see consumers lusting after some forced induction.
This new powerplant (new for the Baleno; it’s been used in the Ertiga and Jimny, amongst others, before) is mated to either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic. New for the next-generation Baleno in South Africa is the option of a 4-speed auto in GL trim.
Pricing
The new Baleno starts production in April and will go on sale in June and pricing will be available closer to the time. Expect it to be competitively priced against market rivals such as the Polo Vivo, Figo and i20.
**Images show a pre-production model and local specifications may vary slightly from these images.
Keyword: The wraps come off of the all-new, next-generation Suzuki Baleno.