Ahead of its launch on March 3, 2017, the upcoming Maruti Suzuki Baleno RS has been spotted in its production form for the first time in the flesh after its Auto Expo 2016 debut. Finally, the performance oriented Baleno RS has been spotted completely undisguised, probably at a dealer yard.
Visual updates to the Baleno RS over the standard model include redesigned front bumper with sporty extensions, a mesh grille, side skirts, chrome door handles, darkened alloy wheels, and a sportier rear bumper with faux honeycomb inserts. The RS will also get at least one additional paint-job, preferably black.
Also read: Maruti Preparing SUV-Styled Hatchback To Take On The Kwid
According to the leaked specifications, the India-spec version of the performance oriented Baleno will be powered by a 1.0-litre Boosterjet petrol engine. This three cylinder 998cc, turbocharged motor develops 100 HP at 5500 rpm while its peak torque of 150 Nm is available between 1700-4500 rpm. It will come mated to a five speed manual transmission as standard while an automatic variant could also be offered later during the product’s life-cycle.
A few other highlights of the Maruti Suzuki Baleno RS will include a slightly tweaked suspension setup to handle the added power output, disc brakes on all four corners and 16 inch alloy wheels (15 inch alloy for the spare tyre). Expect the Baleno RS to arrive with a price tag of approximately INR 8-9 lakh. Once launched, the model will be sold through the Nexa dealerships and would rival the Fiat Abarth Punto and the Volkswagen Polo GT TSI.
Stay tuned as we get you details of the Baleno RS live on March 3.
Here is the official teaser for the upcoming Maruti Suzuki Baleno RS:
Images courtesy: Pranav Radhakrishnan
Following is an image gallery of the upcoming Maruti Suzuki Baleno RS:
