Introduction

The Suzuki Baleno presents an excellent option for those looking for a sensible, affordably priced small car. With its spacious interior, efficient engine choices, and practical design, the Baleno is perfect for families seeking a supermini with more room and lower running costs. Suzuki has carefully thought through the Baleno’s design and features, offering drivers a rational yet modern solution in the competitive small car market.

Engine and Performance

One of the standout aspects of the Suzuki Baleno is its lightweight construction, which greatly enhances its performance and efficiency. Suzuki’s Total Effective Control Technology (TECT) platform makes extensive use of high-strength steel, resulting in a curb weight as low as 950 kilograms. To put that into perspective, many of the Baleno’s competitors are up to 200 kilograms heavier, making the Suzuki far more agile and fuel-efficient.
Two engine options are available: the 1.0-liter Boosterjet and the 1.2-liter Dualjet with mild hybrid technology. The 1.0-liter Boosterjet, a turbocharged three-cylinder engine, delivers 111 PS and 170 Nm of torque, providing smooth acceleration. With a 0-62 mph time of just 11.4 seconds in the manual version, it’s responsive and peppy for city driving. If you opt for the automatic version, it’s slightly quicker, reaching 62 mph in 11 seconds.
The alternative 1.2-liter Dualjet engine, available with mild hybrid technology, offers 90 PS and is paired with a clever energy regeneration system. This mild hybrid setup doesn’t allow for all-electric driving but does boost efficiency and provide an extra torque boost during acceleration. It’s perfect for those prioritizing economy over power, with the added benefit of reducing CO2 emissions to around 94 grams per kilometer.

Driving Experience

In urban environments, the Suzuki Baleno truly shines. Its compact size and tight turning circle make it easy to park and maneuver in crowded city streets. The light steering and short overall length ensure that squeezing into tight parking spots is effortless. However, the suspension can be a bit firm over rough city roads, transmitting some of the bumps into the cabin. At higher speeds, the Baleno offers impressive refinement for a supermini, although the manual gearbox lacks a sixth gear, causing the engine to rev higher on the highway.
While the steering is light and responsive, it’s not as engaging as some sportier rivals like the Ford Fiesta. However, the Baleno offers plenty of grip and stability, ensuring a safe and controlled drive. The addition of disc brakes on higher trim levels enhances stopping power and further boosts confidence on the road.

Exterior Design: Subtle Yet Stylish

The Baleno’s design focuses on simplicity and practicality. It’s not as eye-catching as Suzuki’s Swift or Ignis models, but it has a clean and well-proportioned look. Suzuki’s “Liquid Flow” design theme features curving lines and a low, wide stance. The front grille is sleek and understated, with a chrome accent running along its lower edge. LED daytime running lights add a modern touch, while the 16-inch alloy wheels provide a solid, grounded appearance.
From the side, the blacked-out pillars create a “floating roof” effect, giving the Baleno a more dynamic look. The rear of the car features a chrome strip running across the tailgate, adding a bit of flair to an otherwise simple design. LED taillights and privacy glass are standard on higher trims, further enhancing the Baleno’s appeal.

Interior Space and Comfort

The Baleno excels in interior space, offering one of the most spacious cabins in the supermini class. This is where the Baleno truly stands out from competitors like the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo. The rear seat offers excellent legroom and headroom, even for taller passengers, making it a great choice for families. Suzuki has cleverly designed the interior to maximize space, and the raised seating position in the back provides a commanding view for rear passengers.
The boot space is equally impressive, with a 320-liter capacity that rivals some larger cars in the next class up. For even more storage, the 60/40 split rear seats fold down, expanding the cargo area to 756 liters. This makes the Baleno practical for everything from daily commutes to weekend getaways.

Technology and Features

Suzuki has equipped the Baleno with a generous amount of technology, especially considering its price. All models come with a seven-inch color touchscreen, which includes satellite navigation, DAB radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and MirrorLink. While the interface may not be as polished as some competitors, the system is easy to use and provides all the functionality most drivers need.
In higher trims, the Baleno includes additional features like a multi-information display, adaptive cruise control, and keyless entry. The instrument cluster in the SZ5 trim also features advanced displays that provide data on power output, torque, and even G-force—though these features may be more of a novelty than a necessity for everyday driving.

Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs

One of the Baleno’s biggest strengths is its fuel efficiency. The 1.0-liter Boosterjet engine delivers an impressive 62.7 mpg on the combined cycle, while the 1.2-liter Dualjet mild hybrid achieves even better results at 67.3 mpg. These figures make the Baleno one of the most efficient cars in its class, especially considering that diesel options are no longer available.
Suzuki’s reputation for reliability and affordable running costs extends to the Baleno. The car comes with a three-year, 60,000-mile warranty and an optional fixed-price service plan, which helps keep maintenance costs predictable. Insurance group ratings are also reasonable, making the Baleno an affordable option for new drivers and families alike.

Conclusion

The Suzuki Baleno is an excellent choice for those seeking a practical, affordable, and spacious small car. Its light weight, efficient engines, and impressive interior space make it stand out in a crowded market. While it may not have the sporty handling of some rivals, it offers comfort, practicality, and value for money.
I recently discovered a review from someone who shared their thoughts on the Baleno, and I found their experience similar to mine. If you’re interested in learning more about the Suzuki Baleno, you can watch their full review here: Suzuki Baleno 2016 – IN-DEPTH Review.