Turbocharged Boost for Highly Specified New Suzuki Baleno RS

A new highly specified, more powerful version of the five-door Suzuki Baleno hatchback has arrived in New Zealand.

The RS Baleno, which joins the GLX and LTD grade variants, is powered by the highly acclaimed 1-litre K10C BoosterJet engine. This latest technology direct injection turbocharged power unit packs 20 percent more power than the normally aspirated 1.4 litre engine found in other Balenos.

Arguably even more important, the BoosterJet offers 23 percent greater torque, rising from 130 Nm to 160 Nm, translating to enhanced driving characteristics. The BoosterJet engine produces 82 kW of power and is linked to an efficient six-stage automatic transmission with steering column paddle shifters.

The hill-hold function is a further asset to motoring comfort and convenience in city and urban situations. While performance increases, the new engine’s fuel economy is even better, with an average of 5.2 litres/100 km in the combined fuel cycle test.

Economical and highly responsive, the new three-cylinder motor employs a small turbocharger with an over-boost function delivering impressive power and torque while remaining highly economical. The all-new motor is also being offered in the latest generation Suzuki Swift.

Unladen weight of the Baleno is a trim 975 kg and, helped by the lightweight yet strong platform, the performance is so spirited it deserves the sporting RS badge.

The Baleno RS comes with smoked finish, 16-inch diameter spoked aluminium alloy wheels, turn signals incorporated into the door mirrors, day time running lights, reversing camera and guide-me-home high intensity discharge headlights.

Standard equipment includes climate control air conditioning, cruise control with speed limiter, a multi-function display with seven-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth and USB, satellite navigation, six-speaker audio system, Apple Carplay and keyless entry and start. The steering column adjusts for reach and tilt and the RS has a leather-covered steering wheel.

The braking system has been upgraded with disc brakes now fitted front and rear, and the generous safety equipment boasts ESP and anti-lock braking with EBD. An impact-absorbing body incorporates extensive use of high tensile steel and six air bags are standard.

Despite the relatively compact 3,995mm overall body length, the Baleno is remarkably roomy, with outstanding class-leading rear legroom. The rear seats split fold 60/40 and the boot has a generous capacity of 355 litres. More practical than many of its rivals, the Suzuki’s spacious interior and high level of equipment has won the praise of many independent critics.

With the shapely body, steeply raked windscreen and excellent Cd drag coefficient of 0.299, the Baleno is the most streamlined production car ever created by Suzuki.

Following extensive testing in Europe, the Baleno was deemed to perform strongly in all key areas of evaluation, and the car has also been applauded for its value for money. Not only is the RS peppy and nimble, it also rides smoothly and handles well.

The new Suzuki Baleno launches with a recommended retail price of $25,990, plus on-road costs.