Is one of Australia’s cheapest cars about to be replaced by an all-new version?
Suzuki is readying its next-generation Baleno light hatch, with the company’s Indian outpost releasing a shadowy teaser image ahead of the model’s full reveal.
Describing it as a “technologically advanced, premium hatchback”, Maruti Suzuki promises improvements to in-car and safety technologies, highlighted by the availability of a head-up display, which is a first for the segment in India.
The new-gen Baleno will also feature Suzuki’s ‘Crafted Futurism’ design language, meaning a shift away from the inoffensive look of the current model.
Design cues evident from the teaser, which we have lightened, include a new headlight signature with three arrow-shaped lights making up the DRLs, a chrome strip running between the headlights and the base of a larger grille, as well as a more sculpted bonnet.
A sharper looking lower apron points to a more aggressive overall design, while the rear end juts out slightly in the same way as the current Baleno.
Suzuki hasn’t revealed any other details just yet, so it’s unclear whether it will be an all-new model or a re-skin of the existing model.
CarsGuide has contacted Suzuki Australia to confirm if the new Baleno will be made available locally.
The current model arrived in Australia in mid-2016 as Suzuki’s second light hatchback offering alongside the Swift. The Baleno was positioned as a more affordable alternative to the Swift, largely a result of its Indian sourcing.
Available in GL and GLX grades, it is powered by a 68kW/130Nm four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine, paired with a five-speed manual (GL only) or four-speed auto.
With pricing starting from $17,740 before on-road costs, the Baleno is one of the cheapest new vehicles available in Australia.
It is undercut by the Mitsubishi Mirage from $14,990 and Kia Picanto from $15,990, both before on-road costs, as well as the MG3 from $17,990 drive-away.
Last year, Baleno sales grew in Australia by 17 per cent and its 3896 registrations were only a couple of hundred units behind its more sophisticated sibling, the Swift (4131, -4.6%).
Keyword: Watch out MG 3 and Kia Picanto! 2022 Suzuki Baleno teased ahead of imminent new model reveal in India