Used Maruti Suzuki Baleno: Key Factors to Consider Before Buying

The Maruti Suzuki Baleno hatchback, launched in India in 2015, quickly became a dominant player in the hatchback segment of the Indian market. Even though the car shared its name with another offering from Maruti Suzuki, a sedan called the Baleno, which was available between 1999 to 2007, the name is the only thing both cars shared. The hatchback version of the Baleno, which is available today, has undergone a few updates and facelifts, including a generation upgrade. The premium hatchback appeals to Indian buyers because of its affordability, reliability, and wide range of features. 

Maruti Suzuki Baleno: Model Overview

Since 2015, Maruti Suzuki has launched two generations of the Baleno in India, which brought about a few changes to the engines, cosmetic changes to the exterior and interior, alongside other features.
 

First Generation (2015 - 2022, WB1)

The first generation of the Baleno hatchback was launched in 2015 and continued on till 2022. It was based on Maruti Suzuki’s Heartect platform, which makes the car lighter and more fuel efficient. This generation of the Baleno came in four variants, namely Sigma, Delta, Zeta and the top-spec Alpha. A CVT automatic option was also available, but only on the Delta variant. The car was powered by Suzuki’s 1.2 litre K12 petrol engine, which produced 83.1 bhp and 114 Nm torque, alongside a Fiat-sourced 1.3 litre DDiS diesel engine, which made 73.9 bhp and 189 Nm of torque. Both engines came mated to five-speed manual gearboxes, with the CVT option being available only with the petrol variant. 

Maruti Suzuki also had a 1 litre, three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, called BoosterJet, which was meant only for the international markets. Maruti Suzuki introduced the Boosterjet engine to India when it launched the Baleno RS in November 2017. Enthusiasts loved the 101 hp turbocharged engine, the stopping power from the front and rear disc brakes and the sport tuned suspension. However, as demand was low, Maruti Suzuki decided against upgrading the 1.0-litre engine to BS6 and discontinued the model in January 2020.

The premium hatchback received a facelift in 2019, in which it received a significant exterior redesign. The changes included a wider grille, and updated front fascia, new LED headlamps (DRLs in higher trims), new alloy wheels, while the interior received some minor tweaks. 

Second Generation (2022 - Present, WB2)

The second generation Maruti Suzuki Baleno was launched in February 2022, and came with significant design and feature upgrades. Using the same Hartect platform, the exterior was revamped with a new, sharper design for the front and rear. The new Baleno also came with redesigned interiors, and safety enhancements, like 6 airbags (in the higher trims), and hill hold assist. Features included a new head-up display, 360-degree camera, and an updated dashboard layout. 

Maintenance and Service Costs of Maruti Suzuki Baleno

One of the main considerations while buying a used Maruti Suzuki Baleno is maintenance and service costs, as it can impact the overall ownership cost, and experience. Maruti Suzuki cars are renowned for low maintenance costs, and the Baleno is no different. The average service costs for the first 5 years of service for the Baleno are as follows: 

Parts for the Maruti Suzuki Baleno are easily and widely available, with Maruti Suzuki having a wide range of original parts stores, genuine parts online portal, and authorised service centres across the country. Finding a Maruti Suzuki service centre is easy, and having the vehicle serviced regularly will ensure its longevity and reliability. 

Apart from regular services, a used car that has clocked more kilometers may occasionally require a major service, which includes replacement of parts like spark plugs, brake pads, and transmission fluid. Following are the few costs that may be involved:

Brakes: Brake pads usually last around 30 – 40,000 kms, and need replacement post that, which costs around Rs. 1,500 to Rs. 3,000 for the Baleno.

Suspension: Components such as shock absorbers, which are part of the suspension, usually recommended to be replaced around 60 – 80,000 kms. For the Baleno, this would mean a cost of around Rs. 4,000 to Rs. 6,000 per shock absorber. 

Clutch:  A car’s clutch usually lasts a long time, and might need to be replaced around the 80,000 km mark. For the Baleno, the replacement costs would be approximately Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 8,000.

Resale Value of the Maruti Suzuki Baleno

Maruti Suzuki cars tend to have great resale value in India, owing to their reliability, affordability, and Maruti’s large network. Similarly, a Maruti Suzuki Baleno usually holds its value in the Indian market, and remains in high demand. On an average, a used Baleno retains about 60% of its original purchase value, depending on factors on the following factors:

Model year:  Newer models tend to hold higher resale value better than older models.

Variant: A higher trim or variant, such as Zeta or Alpha, can have better resale value due to their added features. 

Mileage: A car that has been sparingly used and has a lower odometer reading tends to fetch more money.

Condition: A car that has been well-maintained and serviced regularly, along with a service record and clean history, will have a better resale value.

Common Problems with a Maruti Suzuki Baleno

1. Electrical Issues:

   
   On automotive forums, such as TEAM-BHP and The Automotive India, some owners of older Baleno models, specifically the first generation model (2015), have reported problems with the electrical system, particularly with the wiring, fuses, and switches. These can lead to malfunctioning lights, power windows, or infotainment systems.

    

2. Engine Problems:

   
   In certain cases, older Balenos have had issues with the engine, particularly the timing belt and water pump. Regular servicing and checking the condition of the engine are recommended when purchasing a used model.

    

3. Suspension and Steering:

   
   In high-mileage models, there have been reports of suspension components (shock absorbers) wearing out. Steering column issues, such as the steering becoming stiff or making noise, have also been noted, though these are not widespread.

    

4. Recalls:

   
   Maruti Suzuki had recalled 11,851 units of the Baleno hatchback due to a defect in the fuel pump motor. These units were manufactured between July 30, 2019 and November 01, 2019. 

Specifications of the Maruti Suzuki Baleno (2022 – Current)

Here are the specifications for the current generation of the Maruti Suzuki Baleno in the Indian market.