Maruti Baleno RS expected price, specifications and equipment

 

Here is a glimpse at what to expect from the upcoming new Maruti Baleno RS.

Maruti launched the Baleno in October last year as a rival to the Hyundai i20 and Honda Jazz. Slotted above the popular Swift, the car received a strong welcome from customers with bookings exceeding 70,000 units by the end of January 2016. The automaker is now readying a sportier iteration called Baleno RS which was showcased at Auto Expo this year.

Maruti Baleno RS price and rivals

Maruti will price the Baleno RS at a premium over its standard counterpart though the amount of premium is yet uncertain. The RS will mark Maruti’s entry into the hot hatchback segment that currently houses the Polo GT and the Fiat Punto Evo Abarth – the most powerful car in the segment.

Maruti Baleno RS engine details

The biggest talking point about the upcoming hatchback is the introduction of an all-new engine to India. The RS will be powered by a 111hp, 1.0-litre, three-cylinder Boosterjet turbo-petrol engine – a motor currently on offer on the Baleno in international markets. While gearbox details are yet unknown, the model could feature a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic unit as on its international sibling. The RS will also feature disc brakes at all four corners. Cosmetically, the car is expected to wear a minor body kit along with featuring a new set of alloy wheels.

Maruti Baleno RS equipment

In terms of equipment, the car is expected offer similar levels of equipment as top Alpha trim of its standard sibling. This means that the equipment list could include:

·         Bi-xenon automatic headlamps with LED DRLs

·         Dual airbags and ABS

·         Rain-sensing wipers

·         SmartPlay infotainment system with navigation

·         Reverse camera and parking sensors

·         Electric adjust and folding wing mirrors

Maruti Baleno RS launch

Maruti is set to launch the Baleno RS in the coming months and will be sold from Maruti's Nexa dealerships like the standard Baleno.