Rumour: Maruti Baleno RS to launch on March 3

Maruti will reportedly be launching the Baleno RS on March 3, 2017. The model was earlier showcased as a production-ready concept at the 2016 Auto Expo in February last year.

The Baleno RS will be a performance oriented sibling of the regular Baleno hatchback. It will come with a 1.0-litre BoosterJet turbocharged petrol engine that will churn out 101 BHP and 150 Nm of torque, while being mated to a 5-speed MT gearbox. The engine will thus be slightly detuned to suit Indian conditions. The International-spec Baleno RS exported from India uses the same engine, though it develops 110 BHP and 170 Nm of torque.

The Baleno RS will be sold alongside its regular hatch sibling through the NEXA dealership chain. It will be competing against the Abarth Punto and VW Polo GT TSI.

Source: Autocar India