Maruti Suzuki Baleno Facelift: Big News for Fans, New Model Coming Next Month

New Delhi: There is big news for the customers waiting for the new model of Maruti Suzuki's premium hatchback Baleno. According to reports, the company can introduce the updated Baleno in the Indian market on September 5, 2026. The current generation Baleno received a major update in 2022 and since then there have been no major changes in the car. The new car has been seen several times during testing. However, the company has not yet clarified whether it will be introduced as a completely new generation car or will be a facelift of the existing model.

What will change in the front design of the new Baleno?

The pictures of the car revealed during testing indicate that most of the changes will be made in the front part. It has a thinner and newly designed grill than before. A thin strip of chrome above the grille is seen connecting the two headlamps. Changes are also expected in the design of the front bumper. The design of the 16-inch alloy wheel can be changed to give a new look to the side profile. Major changes are unlikely at the rear, although the bumper may receive minor modifications.

How much change will be seen in the cabin?

The interior of the new Baleno is expected to have less changes compared to the exterior design. The test mule has the same dashboard layout as the current model. However, the cabin can be given a fresh look through new upholstery and different color theme. The head-up display found in the current model is also likely to continue. The company may add some new options to the list of features so that the car can compete better with its existing rivals.

Will we get a bigger display instead of the 9-inch screen?

There is talk of upgrading the infotainment system in the new Baleno. The current car has a 9-inch screen, while the new car is expected to have a larger display. Apart from this, existing features like climate control, digital-analog instrument cluster, head-up display and driver seat can remain intact. However, the full list of new features will be revealed at the time of launch only.

Will Baleno get Boosterjet engine?

The most curiosity about the powertrain of the new Baleno is about the 1.0-litre Boosterjet turbo-petrol engine. This engine is already being used in Maruti Suzuki Fronx. According to reports, the existing 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine may be retained in the new Baleno. This engine produces about 90hp power and 113Nm torque and comes with manual and AMT gearbox. The CNG option is also expected to continue. The possibility of getting Boosterjet engine is not completely certain at the moment.

Will the price also increase?

Considering the changes in design and features of the new Baleno, its price may be slightly higher than the current model. Currently, the starting ex-showroom price of Baleno is around Rs 5.99 lakh. If the company offers additional features and new engine options with the facelift, then the price increase will be natural. However, the official price will be revealed only at the time of launch.

Which cars will the new Baleno compete with?

In the premium hatchback segment, the new Baleno will compete mainly with Hyundai i20, Tata Altroz and Toyota Glanza. Altroz  has recently received an update, while i20 is also present in the market with features and sporty design. In such a situation, mere design changes will not be enough for the new model of Baleno. Maruti will have to attract customers on all three fronts: features, engine and price.