Suzuki Baleno 2017 Review
Tags:
Dating back to 1995, the Baleno is a nameplate that Japanese automaker Suzuki holds dearly and one that holds sentimental value to those hailing from the Asian subcontinent. In its fourth-generation, the 2017 Suzuki Baleno bids farewell to its dreary SX4 predecessor and returns rejuvenated, ready to challenge popular hatchbacks such as the Nissan Tiida and Toyota Yaris.
| Key Features: | |
| Engine | 1.4L / 4-cylinder |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic |
| Power | 91 Hp / 131 Nm |
| Top Speed | 170 km/h |
| Price | AED 49,000 |
Exterior
Akin to the third-generation Swift, yet boldly displaying its own identity, the Suzuki Baleno features a honeycomb grille that is embellished with fine chrome and flanked by large, angular xenon headlamps. Grey alloy wheels and a subtle roof spoiler allow the Japanese hatchback to be original and exciting, while fusing the aggression of a hot hatch with the peppiness of an everyday runabout.
You might also be interested in: 2017 Suzuki Swift revealed prior to Geneva debut
Interior
Favoring function over form, the interiors of the Suzuki Baleno 2017 are dressed in hard, durable plastics with silver trims breaking the monotony of dusky hues that adorn the cabin. Lacking the aesthetic presence of its rivals, the Baleno focuses its attention on practicality, offering seating for five adults and 355 liters of cargo space behind the second row – a bump of 45 liters and 29 liters over the Tiida and Yaris respectively.
Safety & Tech
Armed with SRS dual front airbags, SRS side airbags, and SRS curtain airbags, the Suzuki Baleno possesses a distinct advantage over its pricier rivals on the safety front. Its 4-star Euro NCAP crash rating is a byproduct of strong side impact door beams, a tire pressure monitoring system, an electronic stability control system, and ISOFIX child seat anchors along the rear seats.
Although a dealer fitment, the infotainment screen allows for USB & AUX audio inputs, and is complimented by a customizable 4.2-inch digital display in the instrument cluster that displays the external temperature, current and average fuel consumptions, driving range, and engine output and torque on a rather unique chart.
You might also be interested in: 2017 Suzuki Ertiga vs 2017 Toyota Avanza Comparison
Drive
With a kerb weight of 935 kilograms, the Baleno is far from hefty, suiting the 1.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that resides under its sloping hood. Directing a meagre 91 horsepower and 131 Nm of torque through a 4-speed automatic transmission, the Baleno packs in a smaller punch than its rivals, but doesn’t feel underpowered in any which way.
The MacPherson strut suspension upfront and torsion beam at the rear, allow for a ride that is both comfortable and composed around town. Pushing the pedal to the metal results in the Japanese hatchback approaching 100 km/h in 11.6-seconds and a top speed of 170 km/h, but forget the rush and the Baleno will return a thoroughly impressive 12 kilometers for every liter-sized sip of gasoline.
Verdict
Well designed, generously equipped, and adequately powered, at AED 49,000 the fully-loaded Suzuki Baleno 2017 is hard to fault. Offering a lot more for significantly lesser than its rivals, the Baleno is a true Suzuki in every way, the underdog of its class.
Pros:
- Striking exterior design that gives the Baleno ample road presence
- Extremely spacious and comfortable as an everyday hatchback
- Great value for money offering
Cons:
- Aftermarket infotainment screen is delayed and lacks conveniences such as Android Auto
- Snappy steering takes some getting used to, for it’s always in a rush to return to dead center
Editor's Pick:
Suzuki Ignis ignites curiosity in the UAE
3 reasons you should bow down to the Suzuki Jimny
Also See:
