2021 Maruti Baleno Spotted Testing in India: A test mule of the Maruti Suzuki Baleno has been recently spotted conducting test trials with a strain gauge apparatus. As per the details available, the company is planning to launch a new variant of Baleno in India. It could be the much-awaited BS6 diesel version or a new hybrid variant of the petrol version, though the chances of a diesel model are higher.
If it’s a hybrid version, it is expected to feature the same powertrain as that of the Swift Strong Hybrid which was unveiled last year at the Auto Expo in February 2020. Under the hood, the car will be powered by a 1.2-litre dual-jet K-series petrol engine giving a max output of 90bhp and 118 Nm of peak torque and an integrated 10kW electric motor. The electric motor can boost the overall output by 13.4 bhp and 30 Nm and will ramp up the fuel economy up to 32 kmpl. It will also get a regenerative braking system to recharge the battery.
The company is also planning to launch a new mild-hybrid variant that will accompany the powertrain option comprising of a 1.2-litre dual-jet petrol unit that will be paired to a larger 48V battery pack. The battery will send power to the Integrated Starter Generator or ISG which will help the car’s combustion engine and will ensure a smoother ride with improved performance and it will also improve the fuel efficiency of the car.
After the implementation of BS6 emission norms, Maruti Suzuki stopped selling the diesel versions of its cars in India. But the demand for diesel cars is so high that the company has decided to relaunch the diesel variants of its hatchbacks, sedans, and compact SUVs in the coming months.