Recently, a test mule of the Maruti Suzuki Baleno was caught on camera in Gurgaon. The model looks exactly similar to the current version, but features newly-designed alloy wheels. While there is no clarity what the carmaker has been testing with the vehicle, it’s likely to be a new powertrain. There are three possibilities – a fully hybrid powertrain, BS6-compliant 1.5L diesel engine or the Baleno based electric vehicle.
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno full-hybrid model was spotted testing early last year. The Indo-Japanese carmaker has been developing hybrid powertrain in collaboration with Bosch. Reports suggest it will be a 48V “strong hybrid” technology, named “sHEV 48V”. The Baleno with full-hybrid system will be more fuel efficient than the standard model.
We have reported earlier that the Indo-Japanese carmaker is planning to re-introduce the 1.5L diesel engine in BS6 guise. In fact, Maruti Suzuki Ertiga and S-Cross diesel models were spotted testing in the country. The 1.5L DDiS oil burner is good enough for 104bhp and 225Nm. If you remember, Bosch had revealed the Maruti Baleno based electric vehicle in 2018.
The model was equipped with an electric motor and a 10kWh battery pack. The electric motor delivers power worth 115bhp and 200Nm of torque. At present, the Maruti Baleno comes with 1.2L K-Series petrol and 1.2L Dualjet petrol with SHVS mild hybrid powertrains.
In other updates, Maruti Suzuki is planning to expand its SUV product lineup in coming years. The Indo-Japanese carmaker might bring a mid-size SUV to challenge the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. The mdoel will be based on Toyota’s DNGA platform that has also been used in Toyota Raize compact SUV. The compact off-road SUV – Jimny – will also make its way to India. Though, the company will introduce its 5-door version. Both new Maruti Suzuki SUVs will be sold via Nexa dealerships.
Spy Pictures’ Source
