2022 Maruti Baleno facelift vs old Baleno - Is it better?

All new 2022 Maruti Suzuki Baleno facelift is finally launched. How different is it from the old one? Is it a worthy competitor to the likes of Hyundai i20 and Tata Altroz? Let us find out in this detailed comparison.

Exterior

The most visible styling differences between the two variants are in the front and rear ends designs. The grille of the new Baleno is larger, honeycomb-patterned, and extends to the new wraparound headlights.

The headlights are projector units with a three-element LED DRL signature that is broader. Both models have a similar front bumper, though the new Baleno has larger fog light housings and a wider air dam. Its clamshell bonnet is also flatter, and the new Baleno has a wider, more planted look.

The revised Baleno's rear features new C-shaped LED tail lights that extend onto the tailgate and a new bumper with higher reflector strips. In addition, the rear glasshouse and spoiler are very similar to the real model's. The new Baleno's window line chrome strip extends all the way to the rear quarter glass, and the shoulder line crease is sharper.

Dimensions

Given that there has been no change in the platform, any differences between the two versions of the Baleno will be due to cosmetic changes. The new Baleno has the same 2,520mm wheelbase and 1,745mm width as the previous model. On the other hand, the new Baleno has a 5mm less length (3990mm) and a 10mm less overall height (measuring in at 1,500mm).

Interiors and features

Maruti has also put in a lot of effort to update the interiors. The earlier model's largely black cabin theme and waterfall dashboard design are no longer present. Instead, the new models have an all-new layered dashboard design similar to the new S-Cross offered globally. This refreshed Baleno's dashboard includes a more colorful design, with the upper portion of the dashboard being black, the center section being silver, and the lower portion is dark blue, which also extends to the door cards.

Maruti has redesigned 2022 Baleno's air vents with free-standing touchscreen infotainment systems and new instrument clusters. It has also got automatic temperature control switchgear and has a new steering wheel design.

When it comes to features, the new Baleno surpasses the previous model. New features for the top-spec Baleno include a Heads-up display (HUD), Arkamys surround sound system, Maruti's Smartplay Pro+ connected car technology, 360-degree cameras, and six airbags. However, according to Maruti, the updated premium hatchback would not come with a sunroof.

Powertrain

The updated Baleno will only be available with a single petrol engine option, as compared to the two previously offered on the outgoing model. Variable valve timing and an integrated starter generator (ISG) allow for fuel-saving by enabling auto engine stop/start feature. The new 1.2-liter, four-cylinder petrol engine, known as the 'K12N' is equipped with SHVS mild hybrid system that offers a mild electric power boost.

The five-speed manual transmission is still standard, but Maruti has decided to replace the CVT automatic transmission on the older Baleno with a five-speed AMT unit to keep prices under check.