Maruti Suzuki Baleno Spied Testing With Alloy Wheels & Possible New Engine: Pics & Details

However, a completely camouflaged Baleno mule has been spotted testing recently in the country. Spy pics from TeamBHP, reveals the badges of the test mule to be completely covered. They also reveal the test mule's new alloy wheel design, which has not been seen on Baleno hatchback earlier.

The test mule has also made way for speculation about Maruti Suzuki possibly testing a new engine, which could be introduced at a later date. The primary engine is the brand's now discontinued 1.5-litre DDiS diesel engine.

The company had announced earlier that it could bring back the diesel engine if the demand continues to remain the same after the BS6 update. Adding to the speculations, the diesel powertrain demand continues to remain strong despite the BS6 update.

As a result, the company could be testing the 1.5-litre diesel engine to re-introduce in its BS6-complaint form. Back in the day, the BS4 engine powered the brand Ciaz sedan and the Ertiga MPV in the market.

The reason behind speculations about Maruti Suzuki bringing the larger 1.5-litre diesel engine is because it could power a wide variety of vehicles in the brand's portfolio. This includes hatchback, compact-SUV, sedan and even an MPV.

The 1.5-litre diesel engine produced a maximum of 95bhp at 4000rpm and a peak torque of 225Nm between 1500rpm and 2500rpm. The engine came mated to a six-speed manual gearbox as standard.

Currently, the Baleno hatchback is offered two 1.2-litre petrol engines that feature different technology and also produces different power outputs. The 1.2-litre VVT engine producing 82bhp and 113Nm of torque.

While the top-spec 1.2-litre engine comes equipped with Dual VVT and the brand's mild-hybrid technology. It churns out 89bhp and 113Nm of torque — 7bhp higher than the other engine in its the line-up. Additionally, it will also return a better fuel economy due to the mild-hybrid system on the hatchback.

Maruti Suzuki has priced the Baleno between Rs 5.70 lakh and Rs 9.03 lakh, ex-showroom (Delhi). It rivals the Hyundai Elite i20, the Tata Altroz, the Volkswagen Polo and the upcoming Honda Jazz; among others in the Indian market.

Thoughts About The Maruti Suzuki Baleno Spotted Testing

The demand for diesel engines continues to remain strong contrary to the expectations after the BS6 update in India. As a result, Maruti Suzuki could bring back its famous 1.5-litre diesel engine, which had registered significant sales numbers for the brand in its BS4-compliant form.