India's Maruti Suzuki has officially announced the 2nd generation of the Baleno car series. The new car adopts a new design vocabulary and greatly strengthens the cabin technology, equipped with a large central screen, HUD, surround view development and vehicle connection system. It is also powered by the K-series 1.2-litre Dualjet engine, which can produce 89 maximum horsepower.
Exterior, the 2nd Generation Baleno looks sharper. The newly designed front design removes the rounded features of the previous generation and has a wider water tank guard connected to the front bumper, and the new LED headlights look more aggressive than ever. But since the overall contour is still similar, it is still immediately recognizable that this is still Baleno. The front and rear fenders are deeper, with more emphasis on shoulder line and track. The new LED taillights at the rear of the car have more angles and extend to the tailgate, creating a brighter visual impression with the new rear bumper.
In terms of size, the hatchback is 3,990mm in length×1,745×1,500mm in length, width and height, and has a wheelbase of 2,520mm. The new Baleno continues the Heartect platform of the past, but thanks to a suspension system tuning update, a larger 14-inch disc and enhanced NVH, it provides better comfort and handling than the previous model.
The cabin update is equally important, as the overhaul baleno has completely redesigned instruments and centre consoles. These include a new 9-inch touch screen, a built-in Suzuki SmartPlay Pro+ infotainment system, and the integration of 360-degree surround development and Suzuki Connect. The sound section includes Arcamys' Surround Sense sound system. The traditional double-ring pointer meter is equipped with a color information screen in the middle, and can extend information such as speed, speed and oil volume to the HUD head-up display.
The redesigned air conditioning control panel and new steering wheel also make the new Baleno look more modern. For the rear seat space, Suzuki has also enhanced the seat cushion design, added rear air outlet and USB charging port to provide passengers with a more comfortable riding environment.
In the safety section, the overhauled Baleno is equipped with 6 airbags, ESP, uphill assist, and passive safety such as EBD, ABS and ESP, plus seatbelt reminders and high-speed alarm systems. In the absence of an ADAS system, safety equipment may not be abundant by today's domestic market standards, but it is still important for the Indian market.
Under the hood of the Baleno, the 1.2-litre K-Series 1.2-litre Dualjet naturally aspirated engine delivers up to 89 hp and 113N of .m torque, with an idle-out system and a 5-speed manual or 5-speed AGS automatic transmission.