Upcoming Facelifted Maruti Suzuki Baleno Spotted With A Larger Front Grille
- by Sukrit Kumar 1
- Nov 9, 2021
- | Views: 11963
The heavily camouflaged prototype was seemingly undergoing emissions testing
The upcoming facelifted Maruti Suzuki Baleno hatchback has been spotted testing in the country again. This time, it’s apparent that the 2022 Baleno will feature a larger front grille, and redesigned tail lamps and headlamps. The facelifted premium hatchback is expected to arrive next year with new features and similar engine and transmission options as the current model. The Tata Altroz and the Hyundai i20 hatchbacks will be its chief rivals.
The 2022 Baleno has been spied several times, but updates to its exterior are still speculative, since the test mules feature heavy cladding and camouflage. It is expected to get a new front fascia with redesigned headlamps, grille and bumper. Looking at the rear fascia, it seems to have distinct taillamps too. From the sides, the profile appears to be largely unchanged.
We got a glimpse of its redesigned interior earlier this year when spy pics revealed a new layered dashboard design. The 2022 Baleno will have the same sporty flat-bottom steering wheel as the Swift, along with a new floating touchscreen. Maruti is tight-lipped on the details, but the screen graphics indicate that the SmartPlay Studio infotainment system might get an update too.
As for the engines, it’s likely that Maruti Suzuki will continue with a petrol-only engine lineup. The 2022 Baleno is expected to be powered by a 90PS/113Nm 1.2-litre petrol engine paired with a mild-hybrid system, and an 83PS non-hybrid option might also be offered. As standard, you get a 5-speed manual gearbox in the current Baleno, with the option of a CVT automatic transmission available on higher-spec variants. The 2022 Baleno is expected to be priced at a premium over the current hatchback that retails between Rs 5.98 lakh and Rs 9.30 lakh (ex-showroom).