A test mule of the boosterjet engine equipped Maruti Suzuki Baleno was recently snapped during pre-launch road test on the roads of Mumbai. The model was previewed as the Baleno RS Concept at the 2o16 Auto Expo. This test mule was reportedly equipped with a 1.0-litre three cylinder turbocharged boosterjet engine which is currently available in international markets.
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Changes, as seen on the test mule, include the black paintjob that is not available for the current models of the Baleno along with blacked out alloy wheels. However, unlike the concept, the test vehicle did not include a sport body kit, a chrome mesh grille upfront, sportier bumper with honeycomb inserts or an integrated spoiler.
The global spec model is tuned to produce 110 hp and 170 Nm of torque and is mated to a five speed manual transmission. The 1.0 litre boosterjet engine is said to deliver a better fuel efficiency than the current 1.2-litre petrol motor that is being sold in the Indian market.
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The Baleno RS is likely to be available only in the top of the line Alpha trim. The Baleno RS will lock horns against the likes of Volswagen Polo GT TSI and the Fiat Punto Abarth. Expect the price to hover around the INR 10 lakh zone.
Following is the image gallery for the Maruti Suzuki Baleno RS Concept:
Spy image courtesy: CarDekho