The premium hatchback segment saw its bestseller - Maruti Suzuki Baleno - arrive in 2015. The model not only brought the nameplate back to a Suzuki car but also turned out to be a strong seller with India being the global production hub. The first generation Baleno set the sales charts on fire with its striking design, powerful yet efficient engines and spacious cabin. The value quotient turned out to be extremely strong and that continues to fuel Baleno's sales in its latest avatar. So, if you are in the market for a pre-owned Baleno (2016-2021), here are five things you need to know about the premium hatchback.
1. The first generation Maruti Suzuki Baleno offered ample power and performance to keep you happy in the city. The 1.2-litre petrol and 1.3-litre diesel were peppy yet efficient engines, particularly the latter. Double-digit mileage figures are normal in city use and only inch closer to the 20 kmpl on the highway. The car also came with ample features with even the earliest examples equipped with dual airbags, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth and USB connectivity on the top trims.
2. The spacious cabin made the Baleno an apt choice for families. The second-row legroom is generous and so are many cupholders and storage options that further liberate more usable space in the cabin. A 339-litre boot can easily gobble a weekend's worth of luggage.
3. About six years old now, the Baleno continues to be known for its reliability and there isn't much that goes wrong with it. Finding a used example with a high kilometre reading is normal but do make sure the service history is intact. The Baleno is also sensitive to wear and tear with subpar plastics to blame in the cabin. Do check for worn-out switches, rattling dashboard panels and faulty power window switches that may need attention.
4. The clutch also tends to wear out quickly on the Baleno and is a cost-intensive repair. A new clutch will be anywhere between Rs. 7,000-8,000, with additional labour charges that you need to account for. Additionally, do check out the suspension on the 2015 examples that may be at the end of their lifecycle.
5. A pre-owned Maruti Suzuki Baleno will set you back by about Rs. 4 lakh on the lower variants of the petrol version. The upper variants will be priced around Rs. 5.5 lakh mark. The diesel versions are priced at a premium of Rs. 80,000-1 lakh, depending on the age and condition.
