Maruti Suzuki has commenced the production of the YRA hatchback (christened Baleno) at its facility in Manesar. The pictures of the first model to be produced have surfaced on the cyberspace. As we all know, the Baleno hatchback was initially codenamed the YRA and that is precisely the name the board close to the production line states.
The first model seen here, however, has made a beeline for Europe, showing that Maruti Suzuki intends to deliver the initial few clumps abroad. The Baleno hatchback will be comprehensively revealed at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show this month.
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno will lock horns with the Hyundai i20 and the newly launched Honda Jazz. Expected engine options on the premium hatch include a 1-liter Booster Jet (turbo-petrol) or the 1.2 K-Series petrol and another 1.5-liter in house created diesel or the 1.3-liter DDiS motor with SHVS as found in the Ciaz.
Previewed by the iK-2 Concept, which made its debut at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show in March, the Baleno is expcted to be launched in the Indian market sometime early next year and will be positioned as a premium hatchback. As many of you may be aware, Maruti Suzuki recently launched the premium Nexa dealership which will also sell the Baleno next year.
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno is likely to be equipped with the following features :
- Automatic climate control
- Steering mounted controls
- 2-DIN music system
- ABS & EBD
- Key-less entry
- Engine start stop button
- Electrically adjustable and folding wing mirrors
- Front airbags
- Reverse parking sensors
Images : TheAutomotiveIndia