Auto Expo 2016 - Maruti Suzuki Speeds Into Hot Hatch War With Baleno RS

By Dennis

Updated: Thursday, February 4, 2016, 14:18 [IST]

Maruti Suzuki has unveiled the Baleno RS Concept at the 2016 Auto Expo.

Engine & Gearbox Details

The Baleno RS will be available with only the brand new 1.0-litre 3-cylinder BoosterJet turbocharged petrol engine. The BoosterJet engine pumps out 110bhp@5,500rpm and 170Nm of torque@2,000rpm.

The sprint to 100km/h takes 12 seconds and the top speed is 200km/h.

The Baleno RS will be offered with a 5-speed manual transmission.

Design

Design wise, the Baleno RS hasn't changed much other than a small difference with the rear bumper which makes it look like it has a diffusor attached to it. There is also an RS badge on the back and new black alloy wheels.

The Interiors have undergone a rather big change with a fully black interior, sports seats, flat-bottomed steering wheel and a touch based infotainment system with Apple CarPlay.

Availability, Price And Rivals

The Baleno RS is expected to hit the Maruti's NEXA showrooms during the Dusshera-Diwali festival period and is expected to priced a little higher than the top spec Baleno Petrol variant.

The RS will be going up against the Fiat Punto Abarth and the Polo GT.