Suzuki Baleno

Suzuki are bringing back the Baleno nameplate as they expand their range. The experts at Car and Driving take a look.

Ten Second Review

The Baleno is designed to compete in the same class as Suzuki's existing Swift but offer a very different ownership proposition. Riding on an all new platform with a new turbocharged engine, is it different enough to succeed?

Background

The name Baleno is not a new one for Suzuki. The Japanese marque introduced its original Baleno back in 1995 as a bigger brother to the Swift supermini. Underneath the three-door hatchback, four-door saloon or estate bodyshell was a stretched Swift platform with certain engines shared. Although it was axed way back in 2002 and not exactly missed, Suzuki have still decided to resurrect the name.

In a way, it's quite fitting. Although the new car is undoubtedly more interesting to look at than its predecessor, it offers much of the same. The key selling points are a competitive price and plenty of space inside for both passengers and their luggage. Unlike the Nineties version, there's plenty of new componentry that could make the new Baleno a serious competitor in the supermini segment.

Driving Experience

There are a couple of engine options in the Baleno; Suzuki's existing 1.2-litre 'DUALJET' four cylinder engine with 90PS or a new 'BOOSTERJET' 1.0-litre three cylinder powerplant with 112PS. The 1.2-litre option comes with a mild hybrid system that uses a combined starter and generator to harvest electrical energy when the Baleno slows. Not only can this charge the battery and start the engine, it can also add additional power when pulling away from a standstill. This promises to bring a useful improvement in both economy and emissions figures.

As you may have guessed from the name, the 'BOOSTERJET' motor is yet another downsized turbocharged powerplant. While it may lack the hybrid system of the 1.2, clever management of the turbocharger means it shouldn't be too far behind, even though it will offer significantly more performance. While Suzuki do talk of 'superior driving perfomance', the Baleno is unlikely to be set up for B-road blasting. With the Swift such a fun little car, the focus will be very much on ride comfort and refinement to ensure the Baleno appeals to a very different audience.

Design and Build

Compared to the Swift, the Baleno is longer, wider yet lower. This gives it a much less upright look although you'd never call it sleek. There is an attractive feature line that rises from the headlight, over the front wing before dropping down and slowly climbing to meet the window line. Up front there's a bold grille with a large Suzuki 'S' logo while the rear is not quite as adventurous. Underneath is a brand new platform that is around 10% stiffer yet 15% lighter than that found beneath the Swift.

While the platform may be new, the suspension is the familiar mixture of MacPherson struts up front and a torsion beam out back. Standard hatchback stuff but a package that does allow for a 355-litre boot (astonishingly good for a supermini) and plenty of room for rear seat passengers. Inside, the cabin is clean and uncluttered but not what you'd consider exciting. Still, there is just enough silver trim to lift the ambience while the overall shape of the dash does add to the feeling of width within the car.

Market and Model

Expect trim levels to be similar to the Swift. That means SZ2 through to SZ4, although we doubt there's going to be a Sport version. Depending on the model you select, available equipment includes daytime LED running lights, climate control, alloy wheels and of course electric windows. Those that must have the latest infotainment system will be interested in the 7" touchscreen system that is Apple CarPlay compatible via a USB lead.

There's no mention of Android Auto but the system does offer MirrorLink so you can display your apps on the touchscreen. Further highlights include an adaptive cruise control system that can alter the car's speed to suit traffic and autonomous braking too. This is a three stage system that works by alerting the driver, increasing braking force if they are already in use and applying the brakes if the middle pedal hasn't been touched. Other safety features include ABS, six airbags, traction and stability control.

Cost of Ownership

Official figures are yet to be released but Suzuki are claiming the 1.2-litre mild hybrid should have carbon emissions of around 93g/km. Fuel economy has not been mentioned but should be competitive given the amount of carbon the Baleno looks likely to emit. This of course means free tax while features such as autonomous braking should mean insurance is low too. As for the warranty, this is a typical 3 year, 60,000 mile affair.

Summary

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. With the 1.2-litre appealing to cost-conscious motorists and the 'BOOSTERJET' calling out to those that need more grunt, Suzuki may be perfectly placed to appeal to those looking to downsize.

FACTS AT A GLANCE

CAR: Suzuki Baleno

PRICES: £12,999 - £15,349

INSURANCE GROUP: TBC

CO2 EMISSIONS: 94-105g/km

PERFORMANCE: TBC

FUEL CONSUMPTION: TBC

STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Airbags, ABS, traction control, stability control

WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Height 3995/1745/1470mm

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