Maruti Suzuki marked its entry into the hot hatch segment with the Baleno RS in March 2017. In its first year, the Maruti Baleno RS has managed to account for 10% of the total sales of the Baleno model line. And that’s a great number considering not-so-huge contribution of performance cars in the country in sub-Rs 10 lakh price bracket. The Indo-Japanese carmaker is selling 900-1,000 units of the hot-hatch on monthly basis.
Available only on the top-spec Alpha trim, the Maruti Baleno RS (Road Sport) is essentially the more powerful and sportier derivative of the Baleno hatchback. Besides this, the car gets sharper and edgier design along with tuned suspension system. The hot hatch is, currently, available at Rs 8.44 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). At this price point, it takes on the Volkswagen Polo GT TSI and Fiat Punto Abarth.
Maruti Baleno RS Picture Gallery
Maruti Baleno RS Price in India
While the regular Baleno comes within the price range of Rs 5.36 lakh to Rs 8.5 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), its performance version is slightly more expensive. Packed with the new 1.0-litre Boosterjet engine, sporty styling and new features, the Baleno RS comes with a price tag of Rs 8.44 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). Check Out – Maruti Cars At Auto Expo 2018
Maruti Baleno RS Specifications
| Engine | 1.0-litre Boosterjet Petrol |
| Maximum Power | 100bhp @ 5,500rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 150Nm @ 1,700rpm-4,500rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed MT & 6-speed AT |
The Baleno RS is the first Maruti product in India to feature Suzuki’s new global 1.0-litre Boosterjet engine. This turbocharged, three-cylinder petrol motor is tuned for Indian driving conditions and comes boosted with direct injection system. The latter one not only enhances control of fuel injection directly into the combustion chamber, but reduces emission levels and improves fuel efficiency as well. The Boosterjet powertrain is also claimed to deliver greater displacement with high torques at low revs. Read – Upcoming Maruti Cars in India
The hot-hatch’s turbo engine dishes out a maximum power output of 100bhp at 5,500rpm and a peak torque of 150Nm between 1,700rpm – 4,500rpm. Power is transmitted to the front wheels via a 5-speed manual gearbox. For the record, Maruti Suzuki claims that the hot hatch offers 14% better acceleration than the regular model. It can mark 0-100kmph in 11.4 seconds, while maintaining a top speed of 190kmph.
Maruti Baleno RS Mileage
Aiding performance, the powerful 1.0-litre Boosterjet engine is claimed to be high on fuel efficiency. Its mileage figures are higher than regular Baleno. Setting new benchmark in the segment, the mileage for Maruti’s hot hatch is rated 21.1kmpl. Read: 2018 Maruti Ciaz Facelift – All You Need To Know
Maruti Baleno RS Features
Since the new RS is available only on the top-spec Alpha trim, it comes loaded with all comfort and safety fitments offered on the Baleno carline. While the feature list is carried over from the top-end Alpha trim, the hatchback comes equipped with new sporty alloy wheels with a new black shade. Inside the cabin, there are lots of high-end goodies such as automatic air-conditioner, multi-functional steering wheel and SmartPlay Infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. In terms of safety, the car is packed with tyre pressure monitoring system, side airbags, radar based brake support and disc units at front and rear. Read – Maruti Future S Mini SUV Concept Unveiled
Maruti Baleno RS Dimensions
In terms of proportions, the new Baleno RS measures 3,995mm in length, 1,745mm in width and 1,510mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,520mm. The overall dimensions are similar to the regular Baleno; however, the height of the car has been increased by 10mm. The car has a ground clearance of 170mm, while the boot space stands at 339-litres.
Maruti Baleno RS Exterior
Classified as a performance driven hatchback, Baleno RS is styled to give a sporty flair. While there are no radical changes, it has received new key elements such as the V-shaped grille, pulled back headlamps, sporty bumper, wider air-intakes and larger fog lamps. The inclusion of new bumpers result into a slightly increase in its overall length. The changes made to the exterior styling are in line with Suzuki’s new liquid flow design philosophy. The side profile has been accentuated by new decals and bigger alloys. Changes made to the rear are in tandem with its sporty character with new LED tail-lamps and chrome elements adding to the visual appeal.
With respect to safety, Maruti equips additional provisions over the regular model such as the tyre pressure monitoring system, radar-based brake support, side airbags and disc brakes at front rear axles. Besides the 114mm ground clearance ensures Baleno RS will tackle Indian roads with ease. Weighing 85kgs more than the standard Baleno, the kerb weight of the hot hatch is around 950kgs. Read – New-generation Maruti Alto In The Works
Maruti Baleno RS Interior
Updates to the cabin are largely confined to additional equipment. For a sportier appearance, seats are wrapped with new upholstery and there is a new steering wheel. The instrument panel is re-styled in a bid to reinforce the sporty look. Benefitting from the SmartPlay infotainment system with Bluetooth, AppleCarPlay and Navigation, the Baleno RS borrows comfort features from the regular model. Other in-cabin tech such as rear-parking camera & sensors, engine start-stop button, climate control are also included inside. In terms of space, it is comfortable, with ample space for five adults and 339-litre of space for storing luggage.
