Suzuki Baleno road test video: A super spacious supermini
Riding on an all new platform with two clever petrol engines, is Suzuki's new Baleno different enough to succeed? Nathan Judah finds out.
Although designed to compete against cars like the Ford Fiesta and Skoda Fabia, the Suzuki Baleno promises greater levels of space at a bargain price.
Compared to the Suzuki Swift, the Baleno is longer, wider yet lower. This gives it a much less upright look although you'd never call it sleek.
There are a couple of petrol engine options in the Baleno; Suzuki's 1.0-litre three cylinder Boosterjet powerplant with 111PS. Or a 90PS 1.2-litre four cylinder variant that uses the brand's 'SHVS' mild hybrid technology. As the output suggests, it's the 1.0-litre variant that's the stronger performer, with 'DITC' 'Direct Injection turbocharged' technology offering 170Nm of torque, this available from 2,000rpm through to 3,500rpm.
Prices start at around £13,000: that's for the base 'SZ-T' variant. For plusher 'SZ5' trim, you'll need to pay from around £14,000 - with a £1,350 premium on top of that if you want automatic transmission. All these prices assume you're going for the 1.0-litre Boosterjet petrol engine. If you want the alternative 1.2-litre SHVS petrol variant, you'll be paying around £13,500.
Some might think it a little odd that Suzuki seems to be competing with themselves by releasing a second car in the B-segment supermini class. The truth of the matter is that the Swift and Baleno are different enough to ensure they are unlikely to steal sales from each other.
While the Swift is a funky little city car, the Baleno is that little bit bigger and more mature.
Think of it another way. Volkswagen compete with themselves all the time: it's just they change more than the model badge.
A Polo and Fabia may well be in the same class but the latter offers more room while the former has more kerb appeal.
With the Baleno's 1.2-litre mild hybrid engine appealing to cost-conscious motorists and the Boosterjet 1.0-litre variant calling out to those that need a more responsive feel, Suzuki may be perfectly placed to appeal to those looking to downsize.
