Maruti Suzuki may soon start retailing its premium hatchback Baleno from both Arena and Nexa dealerships. As of now, it is sold exclusively via the Nexa line of premium showrooms. It has been reported that this will help to increase the sales and profitability of Arena dealers who do not have Nexa outlets. In addition, Maruti Authorized Service Stations (MASS) will also be allowed to service the Nexa range of cars soon.
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno was the most selling car in the PV segment in August 2021. Offered in four trims (Sigma, Delta, Zeta, and Alpha), it currently retails between Rs 5.98 lakh and Rs 9.30 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).
Powering the Maruti Baleno is a 1.2-litre petrol engine (83PS/113Nm), paired with either a 5-speed manual or a CVT automatic transmission. The hatchback also comes with a 1.2-litre Dualjet petrol engine with mild-hybrid technology (90PS/113Nm), mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. It is claimed to deliver a fuel efficiency of 23.87kmpl, while the non-hybrid model returns a mileage of 21.01kmpl with manual and 19.56kmpl with CVT.
In terms of features, the premium hatch comes with LED projector headlamps, 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple Carplay and Android Auto, automatic climate control, height-adjustable driver's seat, keyless entry with push-button start and more. The safety kit includes dual-front airbags, ABS with EBD, ISOFIX child seat anchorages, rear parking sensors with reversing camera.
In other news, Maruti is gearing up to launch the facelift version of Baleno that will come with an extensive set of updates, including a floating infotainment system. Click here for details.