A new spy shot of the 2019 Maruti Baleno has surfaced online, showing changes with more clarity. The facelifted model is likely to reach showrooms next month. The premium B-segment hatchback has received subtle design revisions with its mid-cycle update. At the front, the key changes include new chrome upper grille accent, an aggressively shaped bumper, remodelled lower air intake and separately, positioned vertical fog lamp housing. On the sides, one can expect new 16-inch alloy wheels.

Maruti Suzuki doesn’t usually bring drastic cosmetic changes on the inside with minor model change (MMC), and the same should apply for the Baleno. The basic design and layout should remain as is. The company will likely bring only low-cost aesthetic refreshes, such as new fabric design and colour-coding. Also, it may finally start offering cruise control in the domestic market as it does in the export markets. With the addition of rear parking sensors to the standard safety kit and the introduction of a speed alert system (also as standard), the new model would offer greater safety.

The Maruti Baleno should retain its K12M 1.2-litre petrol and D13A 1.3-litre diesel engines. That said, the diesel engine option will cease to exist by March 2020, as there’s no plan to upgrade it to meet BSVI emission norms. A recent report said that Maruti Suzuki plans to stop producing BSIV cars in January 2020. There’s no word on what’s to happen to the low-volume RS variant.

The 2019 Maruti Baleno could cost around INR 5.50 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) onwards.