Five things we love about the Suzuki Baleno

The new 2022 Suzuki Baleno has arrived, and although the basic architecture is the same as the previous model, the B-segment hatchback features several noteworthy upgrades.

Below are the top five things we love about the new Suzuki Baleno:

The new Baleno comes in two trim levels – base GL and flagship GLX – both carrying the same engine. The old 1.4-litre unit is replaced by a familiar 1.5-litre mill that also propels the Vitara Brezza, Jimny, and Ciaz. The engine produces 77kW at 6,000rpm and 138Nm of torque at 4,400rpm, and it mates to either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic gearbox to power the front wheels. The power output is 9 kW and 8 Nm higher than the old unit.

The rear gets new baseball-cap-styled taillight clusters. At the front, the black grille with chrome accents remains the same for both the GL and GLX, but the halogen projector headlamps in the base model are replaced by LED headlamps (with LED DRLs) in the range-topper. Suzuki has also revised the steering setup and suspension, and the new and more powerful engine delivers an impressive fuel economy.

With petrol prices constantly increasing, it’s not surprise that the Baleno’s good fuel economy is one of our favourite features. The engine is well known for its punchiness and fuel efficiency. Suzuki claims 5.4 L/100 km for the manual and 5.7 L/100 km for the automatic, which is exceptional for a hatchback of its size.

The standard features are generous, considering the Baleno is an entry-level hatchback available at an affordable price. We are talking about a 7.0-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, reverse-view camera, automatic climate control, cruise control, 3 USB ports (one is a Type-C), LED fog lamps, and multifunction leather-covered steering wheel for the base GL. The Baleno ensures safety through two frontal airbags, ABS (anti-lock brakes), hill hold assist, and electronic stability control.

Dish out R50,000 more for the GLX and the Baleno gets more attractive, courtesy of a 9.0-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, 360 degree camera, headup display, 16-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry with push-button start, LED daytime running lights and projector headlamps, and 4.2-inch colour information display in the central cluster. The GLX gets four airbags, and the rest of the safety attributes remain the same as in the GL.

Comparing the new Baleno to the competition in terms of value for money, the compact hatchback is hard to beat in its segment, especially in the entry-level GL guise, costing just R225,900. The auto variant starts at just R20,000 more, while the GLX manual and GLX auto go for R275,900 and R295,900, respectively.

The drive is energetic, the cabin feels friendly with plenty of high-tech features, the safety features are adequate, and fuel economy figures are exceptional in its segment. Furthermore, it comes with a five-year comprehensive warranty or 200,000km and a 4-year/60,000km service plan.

Do you love cars as much as we do? Check out the Reviews section of the MotorHappy blog to find out what we think about some of the latest car models on South Africa’s roads.

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