By Staff Reporter

The Baleno often gets overlooked in the B-segment but offers lots of specification and space compared to rivals. In fact, the Baleno is 3 995 mm long and offers a 2 520 mm wheelbase, which is 70 mm longer than a Suzuki Swift and on a par with some C-segment contenders.

Suzuki has refreshed it for 2019 and the new looks should help it stand out more.

New look

In the new model, the grille and the liquid flow line is more pronounced. The chrome strip now passes through the front headlights to end at the fender-line. Rounding off the new front look is a deeply sculpted lower bumper with a hexagonal centre intake.

The headlights feature a new three-dimensional design, and on the GLX specification, the high-impact discharge (HID) lamps are replaced with LEDs. The GLX models have integrated fog lamps in this lower section.

The updated Baled is offered in six colours, including a new Magma Grey metallic finish.

Interior

The GL-model, which is only available with a five-speed manual gearbox, has air conditioning, power steering, electric windows front and rear, a radio with Bluetooth, MP3 playback, USB socket and CD player, and steering-mounted audio controls. Additionally, there is standard remote keyless access, front and rear 12V accessory sockets, a height-adjustable driver seat and a luggage area light.

The GLX adds to the GL specification with cruise control, fully automatic climate control, keyless entry with a push button start, leather trim on the steering wheel, rear park distance control with camera and a front armrest.

The GLX infotainment system includes a 7” full colour touch screen with a reverse camera, voice commands, and smartphone integration through Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Safety

In terms of safety, the GL offers ISOFIX mounting points for child seats, two airbags in front and ABS brakes with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) and emergency brake assistance (BAS). The GLX bumps this up with front side and side curtain airbags for a total of six airbags. There are also rear disc brakes at this specification level.

Engine

The refreshed Baleno derives its power from Suzuki’s K14B naturally aspirated petrol engine that offers 68 kW and 130 Nm. Both the GL and GLX models are available with a five-speed manual gearbox and sip a claimed fuel consumption of 5.1 litres per 100 km in a combined cycle. GLX buyers can swop the manual for a four-speed automatic gearbox, which is claimed to consume 5.4 litres per 100 km.

Pricing

The Suzuki Baleno is priced as follows:

Baleno 1,4 GL MT      R209,900

Baleno 1,4 GLX MT    R244,900

Baleno 1,4 GLX AT     R259,900

Prices include a four-year / 60,000 km service plan and Suzuki’s promotional warranty of five years / 200,000 km.