2017 Suzuki Baleno Review: Specifications, Design, and Technology
After establishing itself as a leading manufacturer of small compact cars with strong sales of models like the Suzuki Swift, Vitara, and Jimny, Suzuki aims to strengthen its presence in the market by introducing the new hatchback, the "Baleno." The 2017 Suzuki Baleno is larger than the Swift, competing against vehicles like the Toyota Yaris and Nissan Tiida.
The Baleno is available in the UAE in two trims: GL and GLX, with our test model being the higher-spec GLX.
Main Specifications
| Engine: | 1.4L / 4-cylinder |
| Transmission: | 4-speed automatic |
| Power: | 91 hp / 131 Nm of torque |
| Top Speed: | 170 km/h |
| Price: | 49,000 AED |
Exterior Design
The Japanese design of the Suzuki Baleno is evident in its simplicity and traditional style, despite being launched for the first time in the UAE market. Its exterior design features lines that lack the sleekness and modernity found in some competitor cars and even in Suzuki's newer models like the Swift and Vitara.
Interior Design
The interior design does not differ significantly, as the cabin lacks the vibrant character seen in cars of this size, despite having a 4.2-inch touchscreen display.
In terms of space, the Baleno offers a good amount of room in both the front and rear, with one of the largest trunks in its class. The rear seats can fold down to provide a storage capacity of up to 355 liters, surpassing its competitors.
Technology and Safety
The Baleno is equipped with front, side, and curtain airbags, showcasing its safety features that surpass those of its competitors. The car received a 4-star rating from the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) due to its reinforced side doors, tire pressure monitoring system, electronic stability control, and ISOFIX child seat anchors in the rear seats.
In terms of technology, the Baleno includes an infotainment system that supports USB and AUX connectivity, along with a dashboard display showing external temperature, current and average fuel consumption, driving distance, and engine power output.
Driving Experience
Under the hood, both trims are equipped with the same 1.4L / 4-cylinder engine that produces 91 hp and 131 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission.
The car features a MacPherson front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension, providing a comfortable driving experience suitable for city driving. During our test, we pressed the accelerator to the maximum to gauge its acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, achieving this in 11.6 seconds before reaching its top speed of 170 km/h. The Suzuki Baleno delivers an impressive fuel efficiency of up to 12 km per liter.
Behind the wheel, you'll appreciate the Baleno's responsive handling. Despite its relatively small engine, the car weighs less than 1000 kilograms, and the feedback from the steering enhances the driving experience, making it more enjoyable than its competitors.
Verdict
You might wonder how such a car can compete with popular and desirable models. However, the Baleno's specifications make it a strong contender in the automotive sector, as it is practical and reliable, characteristic of Suzuki vehicles, with a competitive price under 50,000 AED that includes many technical features.
Personally, I believe the Suzuki Baleno could compete even more vigorously if it received a design update similar to the new Vitara.
Pros:
- Comfortable and spacious interior, ideal for daily use
- Offers numerous features at a reasonable price
Cons:
- The infotainment screen appears to have been added post-production, lacking Android Auto connectivity
- Quick steering requires some time to get used to.
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