Maruti NEXA Baleno RS

The Maruti NEXA Baleno RS is a performance-oriented variant of the popular Baleno hatchback. It stands out with its 998cc, three-cylinder turbocharged Boosterjet engine, producing 100.5bhp and 150Nm of torque. This engine, combined with a five-speed gearbox and all-round disc brakes, makes the RS quicker and more engaging to drive. The car features a stiffer suspension and a reinforced chassis, though it still prioritizes comfort over outright performance. Inside, the cabin is spacious and comfortable, with a 339L boot and amenities like keyless entry, automatic headlamps, and a good climate control system. However, the interior design and build quality are not significantly different from the standard Baleno, which might be a letdown for some. Overall, the Baleno RS is a great choice for those seeking a fun, yet practical, daily driver with a bit of extra oomph.

The Maruti NEXA Baleno RS is a significant step up from the standard Baleno, particularly for those who crave a bit of performance in their daily commute. The turbocharged 998cc Boosterjet engine is the star of the show, offering a noticeable boost in power and torque that makes it quicker than its non-turbo counterpart. However, it falls short in terms of handling and steering feedback, especially at higher speeds, where the steering can feel too light and disconnected from the road. The ride quality is comfortable, but the suspension, although stiffer, doesnt quite match the expectations of an enthusiast. Despite these drawbacks, the Baleno RS is a fun car to drive, especially on highways, and its spacious cabin, comfortable seats, and ample boot space make it a practical choice. Yet, the higher price tag and lower fuel efficiency compared to the standard Baleno might deter some buyers.

The Maruti Suzuki Baleno RS, a performance-oriented variant of the Baleno, was launched in India on March 3, 2017, marking Maruti Suzukis entry into the hot hatch segment. It is powered by Suzukis 1.0-litre Boosterjet engine, making it the companys most powerful hatchback at the time. The Baleno RS is available exclusively through Nexa outlets and is priced at Rs. 8.69 lakh. I think this move was a bold step by Maruti Suzuki to cater to the growing demand for performance cars in India.

The Baleno RS features several differentiating elements compared to the standard Baleno, including a more powerful engine and distinct styling cues. These changes were aimed at appealing to buyers looking for a performance-oriented hatchback. I believe these additions made the Baleno RS a compelling option in its segment.

The Baleno RS comes with a range of safety features, including ABS with EBD, ESP, and Hill Hold Assist, making it a safe choice in the hot hatch segment. This emphasis on safety was seen as a positive move by Maruti Suzuki to ensure the vehicles appeal extended beyond just performance.

The Baleno RS was priced competitively at Rs. 8.69 lakh, making it an attractive option for buyers looking for a performance hatchback without breaking the bank. This pricing strategy was aimed at making the vehicle accessible to a wider audience.

The launch of the Baleno RS marked Maruti Suzukis foray into the Indian hot hatch market, a segment that was gaining popularity at the time. This move was seen as a strategic expansion of their product lineup to cater to diverse consumer preferences.

The Maruti NEXA Baleno RS was priced at around Rs 8.69 lakh ex-showroom in Delhi when it was launched. On-road prices would typically include additional costs such as registration, insurance, and other local taxes, which could push the total to around Rs 10-11 lakh, depending on the state and city. This premium over the standard Baleno 1.2 Alpha trim, which is about Rs 1.4 lakh, might seem steep to some, but for those who value the enhanced performance and the unique features of the RS, it could be justified. However, its crucial to weigh this against the higher running costs due to lower fuel efficiency.

The mileage of the Maruti NEXA Baleno RS is a key consideration for potential buyers. In city driving, you can expect around 9.7 kmpl, while on the highway, it improves to about 17 kmpl. However, during aggressive driving, the mileage can dip to as low as 7.5 kmpl. This is significantly lower than the standard Baleno 1.2, which delivers 13.4 kmpl in the city and 18.1 kmpl on the highway. If fuel efficiency is a top priority, the RS might not be the best choice, but for those who can compromise on mileage for the sake of performance, its still a viable option.