2022 Maruti Suzuki Baleno: Changes made & initial impressions

This is a newly developed Baleno altogether. The investment indeed points to that direction.

BHPian Moto$apien recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

This is a newly developedBalenoaltogether. The investment indeed points to that direction.

In comparison they could make the XL6 from the Ertiga in a measly 100 cr.

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• So, the changes are indeed more than skin deep. I got a chance to Test drive the vehicle on the launch day at the dealer and would like to list the observations.

• Door panels and other sheet metal quality has gone up to more than satisfactory levels. This is a 4/5 star contender on NCAP.

• Opening and closing of doors has decent heft. Bonnet and Hatch feel solid.

• The cabin layout and controls are excellent. HUD is a nice addition and worked well in bright sunny condition also.

• The instrument panel looses its blue tinge of the previous version and becomes grayscale for most screens. I liked the previous one better.

• I drove the manual and happy to report the Clutch is super light and steering self-centering is highly improved. No more sticky steering with the new update.

• Suspension is softer and NVH levels were really low with good insulation against all road noises.

• Cabin Cooling is excellent with rear A/C vents also supporting with cool air.

• 360 camera is a novel feature and is very usable, in fact it leaves a lasting impression of the car having advanced features.

• 6 airbags in top 2 of 4 variants makes it the most affordable car with this feature.

• Prefer the looks on the darker shades which have a deep gloss finish. Although even the rudimentary silver was looking 'splendid'.

• Paint finish is top notch with finger prints smudges requiring frequent cleaning. Front look is butch.

Paint finish is top notch with finger prints smudges requiring frequent cleaning. Front look is butch.

The blue shade is menacing and suave.

Zeta has these plain looking alloys, can be painted up I feel to give the Alpha look.

Left to right, Sigma (base), Delta (2nd), Zeta (2nd from top). They all have good mod potential in terms of exterior looks.

If one can overlook the SUV craze then this is a good option with the right pricing.

Read BHPian comments for more insights and information.