Maruti-Suzuki has launched its first
performance-oriented hatchback, the Baleno RS, in Delhi. Available
in a single well-equipped variant that slots above Baleno Alpha, the Baleno RS
is priced at INR 8,69,000 (ex-showroom Delhi).
The Baleno RS is Maruti’s first RS hatchback with mechanical upgrades. It
debuts the 1.0L Boosterjet petrol engine, which outputs 100 hp at 5,500
rpm and 150 Nm of torque between 1,700 rpm – 4,500 rpm, delivering 20 percent
more power and 30 percent more torque than the familiar 1.2 petrol. A 5-speed
manual gearbox is the only transmission option available. It is claimed to
offer an average fuel mileage of 21.1 km/L.
Features exclusive to the Baleno RS include a black
mesh grille, sportier bumpers with larger intake, silver highlights,
black-painted 16-inch rims, an aggressive rear bumper, and a roof spoiler.
Inside, the design, color combination and feature list are identical to the Baleno
Alpha, with equipment such as keyless entry with push button start, Bi-Xenon
headlamps with LED DRLs, LED taillamps, 4.2 inch color MID, auto dimming IRVM,
7 inch Smartplay with reverse camera and Apple CarPlay support, and automatic
climate control.
The Baleno RS will be sold
exclusively through NEXA dealerships across India. This brings the total count
of models sold through NEXA to four.
