Coming out of its comfort zone, Maruti Suzuki is tapping into new segments and the latest model to join the product range is the Maruti Baleno RS, powered by the more powerful 1.0-litre Boosterjet petrol engine. The turbocharged unit with direct injection provides RS more power for enhanced performance and aesthetic changes to the exterior blend in with its sporty character.
Based on Baleno’s top-spec Alpha variant, RS is essentially a powerful derivative of the regular variant, positioned at the top of Baleno range. To find out how different these two variants are from each other, we bring a spec-based comparison between the two variants.
Maruti Baleno RS Vs Maruti Baleno Exterior Changes
While the RS version witnesses no vital change to the exterior, it receives new styling elements for a sportier and peppy look. To make it appear edgy, Maruti has finished headlamp housings and alloy wheels in black. Another change is the addition of sill extensions under the front bumper and doors. As we move to the side profile, the hatch gets larger alloys and new decals. Round the back, there is new tail lamp with LED units and chrome elements add to the visual appeal. It is to be noted that changes made to the RS version are in line with Suzuki’s new liquid flow design philosophy.
Maruti Baleno RS Vs Maruti Baleno Interior Changes
It is largely same as the regular variant from inside with similar equipment, save for few additions like the new upholstery, new steering wheel, redesigned instrument panel etc. Maruti’s Smartplay infotainment system with navigation, Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth is inherited from the regular version. In addition, the hot hatch also packs rear-parking camera & sensors, engine start-stop button, climate control etc.
Maruti Baleno RS Vs Maruti Baleno Features
The RS version gets connectivity features from the regular Alpha trim including the SmartPlay infotainment system with Bluetooth, AUX & USB, steering mounted audio controls, navigation system, voice command, Smartphone Connect/Apple CarPlay and remote control through Smartphone App.
In terms of comfort & convenience, the fully-loaded RS version gets a raft of goodies such as remote keyless entry, power windows in front & rear, auto-up power window for driver, power-operated ORVMs, adjustable headrests in front & rear, automatic AC, front centre armrest with storage, height adjuster for driver and push start/stop with smart key.
With respect to safety, the hot hatch gets primary equipment including dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, ISOFIX child seat anchorages, pedestrian protection compliance as standard provisions. Additionally, it also gets disc brake units in front & rear, front fog lamps, pinch guard power window for driver, reverse parking sensors and reverse parking camera among others. Equipment list on the regular Alpha is similar save for few features like disc brakes at rear, black coloured alloy wheels and headlamp housings to name a few.
Maruti Baleno RS Vs Maruti Baleno Specifications
Powered by 1.0-litre petrol engine with turbocharged and direct injection, Baleno is the first model from Maruti in India to get the robust unit from Suzuki’s Boosterjet engine family. The petrol makes as much as 100.5bhp of power at 5,500rpm and 150Nm of torque between 1,700 to 4,500rpm. A five-speed manual is paired to the engine for transmitting power to front wheels.
The standard Baleno Alpha, it is available in petrol and diesel fuel options. The petrol variant derives power from the 1.2-litre unit good for 83bhp of power at 6,000rpm and 115Nm of torque at 4000rpm. At the heart of the diesel variant is the Fiat sourced 1.3-litre oil burner putting out 74bhp at 4,000rpm and 190Nm of torque at 2,000rpm. While the five-speed manual unit is standard on both, the CVT is offered with the petrol engine.
Maruti Baleno RS Vs Maruti Baleno Mileage
Delivering high output and better performance, the 1.0-litre, three cylinder Boosterjest petrol engine delivers 21.1kmpl of fuel economy. With a minimal difference in mileage, the 1.2-litre petrol unit from the regular Alpha variant is claimed to return 21.4kmpl. On the other hand the fuel economy for the diesel powered variant is rated at 27.39kmpl by ARAI.
Maruti Baleno RS Vs Maruti Baleno Prices
With subtle cosmetic updates and new engine more powerful engine under the hood, Baleno’s performance derivative RS is available in single variant at Rs 8.69 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).
Compared to the regular Alpha petrol which is priced at Rs 7.29 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), there is a steep difference in pricing. Just so you know, the diesel powered regular Alpha variant is available for Rs 8.43 lakh. (Please note that Baleno RS comes only in petrol variant.)
