The new Suzuki Baleno has arrived in South Africa, priced from a whisker under R200 000, with the likes of the Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta and Renault Clio firmly in its sights.
The local Baleno hatchback range comprises three derivatives, with the range-topper coming in at around R245 000.
So, where does this new model fit into the Japanese automaker’s local line-up? Well, the Baleno slots in just above the slightly smaller Swift hatchback (it’s some 87 mm longer), although it may end up replacing the 1,4-litre Swift models altogether, leaving the Indian-built 1,2-litre variants to soldier on.
At launch, the new Baleno – which is also produced in India and runs on an all-new platform – is powered by the brand’s familiar K14B 1,4-litre, naturally aspirated petrol engine, which already does duty in the local Swift, Ertiga and Ciaz line-ups. Although not yet confirmed, a 1,0-litre, three-cylinder mill (dubbed Boosterjet, which we sampled on the international launch) may well arrive at a later date. Dependent, as ever, on exchange rates.
The free-breathing, 1,4-litre four-pot makes 68 kW at 6 000 r/min and 130 N.m at 4 200 r/min. Local buyers have the choice of two gearboxes: a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic transmission.
Suzuki says models fitted with the manual gearbox are capable of accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 10,9 seconds, before topping out at 180 km/h. The automatic model takes 11,6 seconds to hit three figures, before running out of puff at 170 km/h. The automaker claims an average fuel consumption of 5,1 L/100 km for the manual, and 5,4 L/100 km for the automatic.
Two trim levels are on offer: the entry-level GL and the better-equipped GLX, the latter available with either the manual or automatic transmission.
GLX variants feature model-specific headlamps (with HID projector elements and LED daytime running lights), fog-lamps, plenty of chrome-effect exterior trim, a rear spoiler, 16-inch alloys (the GL makes do with 15-inch steel wheels), a 6,2-inch TFT colour screen, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, cruise control, rear parking sensors and keyless starting.
All models come standard with ABS with EBD, although the GL employs drums at the rear (the GLX has discs all round). Dual front airbags are standard, too, although GLX models add side and curtain airbags, taking the total to six. Other standard safety features include IsoFix child seat anchors and an alarm/immobiliser system.
A four-year or 60 000 km service plan is also included with intervals of 15 000 km.
Pricing:
Suzuki Baleno 1,4 GL: R199 900
Suzuki Baleno 1,4 GLX: R229 900
Suzuki Baleno 1,4 GLX (auto): R244 900
