Maruti Baleno RS launched in India at INR 8.69 Lakhs

First Maruti to get the 1.0L Boosterjet engine.

Maruti-Suzuki has launched its first performance-oriented hatchback, the Maruti Baleno RS, in Delhi today. Available in a single well-equipped variant that slots above Baleno Alpha, the Baleno RS is priced at INR 8,69,000 (ex-showroom Delhi).

Unveiled more than a year ago at the Auto Expo 2016, the Baleno RS is Maruti's first RS hatchback with mechanical upgrades. It debuts the 1.0L Boosterjet petrol engine, which outputs 100 hp (75kW) at 5,500 rpm and 150 Nm of torque between 1,700 rpm – 4,500 rpm, delivering 20 percent more power and 30 percent more torque than the familiar 1.2 petrol. A 5-speed manual gearbox is the only transmission option available. It is claimed to offer an average fuel mileage of 21.1 km/L.

Features exclusive to the Baleno RS include a black mesh grille, sportier bumpers with larger intake, silver highlights, black-painted 16-inch rims, an aggressive rear bumper, and a roof spoiler. Inside, the design, color combination and feature list are identical to the Baleno Alpha, with equipment such as keyless entry with push button start, Bi-Xenon headlamps with LED DRLs, LED taillamps, 4.2 inch color MID, auto dimming IRVM, 7 inch Smartplay with reverse camera and Apple CarPlay support, and automatic climate control.

Like the regular Baleno, the Baleno RS will be sold exclusively through NEXA dealerships across India. This brings the total count of models sold through NEXA to four.