Maruti Suzuki has launched the updated Baleno facelift in India at a starting price of Rs 6.10 lakh (ex-showroom) . The 2026 model year update introduces significant changes including a new engine, Level 2 ADAS technology, and enhanced cabin features .
The new Baleno is now available at Nexa dealerships across the country, with the company reporting cumulative sales of approximately 1.9 million units since its original launch .
New Powertrain and Efficiency
The biggest mechanical change is the switch to a new 1.2-litre Z-Series three-cylinder petrol engine, which replaces the outgoing K-Series four-cylinder unit . This engine produces 61 kW (approximately 81 bhp) of power and 112.4 Nm of peak torque .
The engine is available with a five-speed manual transmission and an Auto Gear Shift (AGS) automatic transmission . The manual version delivers a claimed fuel efficiency of 23.80 km/l, while the AGS variant returns 24.77 km/l, representing improvements of 6.4% and 7.9%, respectively, over the previous generation .
For the first time, the Baleno S-CNG variant can be paired with an AMT gearbox, making it only the second car in its segment to offer a CNG-automatic combination . The CNG version delivers a claimed fuel efficiency of 33.61 km/kg .
Design and Exterior Updates
The exterior receives subtle styling tweaks, including a larger front grille with a modern interpretation of the signature NEXWave grille featuring horizontal black slats . The hatchback gets revised bumpers with new LED fog lamp housings, a shark-fin antenna, and a fresh design for the 16-inch alloy wheels .
Maruti has added a new Enigmatic Teal colour to the palette, described as inspired by the depths of the sea and digital fusion, designed to create a sense of depth in shadows and brilliance under light . Overall dimensions remain unchanged at 3,990mm in length with a 2,520mm wheelbase .
Cabin and Feature Upgrades
Inside, the cabin retains the familiar dashboard layout centred around a nine-inch SmartPlay Pro+ touchscreen and a semi-digital instrument cluster . The new additions include ventilated front seats, which Maruti claims is a first-in-segment feature .
Other new convenience features include a wireless charging pad with cooling function, an integrated tyre pressure monitoring system, a front centre armrest with storage, and a Clarion sound system . Existing equipment such as the head-up display, automatic climate control, rear AC vents, keyless entry, push-button start, and a 360-degree camera have been carried over .
Safety and ADAS Technology
The most substantial upgrade comes in the form of the Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) suite, making the Baleno the first hatchback in India to offer this technology . The system uses a camera and millimetre-wave radar to deliver eight functions, including adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist, lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and high-beam assist .
Additional safety equipment includes six airbags as standard across all variants, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, traction control, hill-hold assist, and the Suzuki Connect telematics system which offers over 40 connected features .
The 2026 Baleno facelift continues to compete in the premium hatchback segment against rivals such as the Tata Altroz and Hyundai i20, with deliveries expected to begin shortly .
