Maruti Suzuki has introduced the facelifted Baleno with a refreshed design, a new petrol engine and a revised variant lineup. The entry-level Sigma variant sits at the bottom of the range and is priced at Rs. 5.99 lakh (ex-showroom). Despite being the base model, the Sigma gets several important safety features, while some convenience and infotainment equipment has been left for the higher trims.
Exterior Design
The Baleno Sigma gets the facelift’s updated front-end design, including a new three-slat grille and redesigned bumpers. However, the base variant keeps the exterior relatively simple with halogen projector headlamps and no front fog lamps. The grille and several exterior elements have a black finish.
The Sigma rides on 15-inch steel wheels with wheel covers, while the ORVMs and door handles are finished in black. At the rear, it gets LED tail lamps, a roof-mounted spoiler and a shark-fin antenna. The Sigma is available in colours such as Splendid Silver, Nexa Blue, Grandeur Grey and Arctic White.
Cabin and Features
Inside, the base Baleno follows a functional approach. It gets a dual-tone blue and grey interior, fabric seats, aluminium-look dashboard inserts and an analogue instrument cluster with a small monochrome MID.
One of the biggest omissions is the infotainment system. The Sigma does not get a touchscreen, speakers or steering-mounted controls from the factory. Buyers looking for smartphone connectivity will have to move to the Delta variant or consider an aftermarket solution.
Other equipment includes all four power windows, driver-side auto up/down with anti-pinch, manual air conditioning, keyless entry and adjustable headrests for all five occupants. The rear seats also get a 60:40 split-folding function.
Safety Features
Safety is one of the stronger aspects of the Sigma variant. It comes with six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control and hill-hold assist as standard. Three-point seatbelts with reminders for all occupants, ISOFIX child-seat mounts and rear parking sensors are also included.
The advanced Level 2 ADAS technology is reserved for the top-spec Alpha (O) variant, so features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist and autonomous emergency braking are not available on the Sigma.
Engine and Price
The new Baleno uses a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated three-cylinder petrol engine producing 83 PS and 112 Nm. In the Sigma, it is paired exclusively with a five-speed manual gearbox. The AMT option is available from higher variants.
With its Rs. 5.99 lakh starting price, the Sigma provides the core Baleno package with a strong safety kit, but buyers wanting modern infotainment and additional convenience features will need to consider the higher trims.
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