Maruti Suzuki Baleno Cross SUV spied ahead of expected early-2023 debut
The next major launch from Maruti Suzuki following the Grand Vitara is expected to be the coupe-SUV version of the Baleno hatch. The Baleno Cross, also known by its YTB internal designation, is expected to debut at the 2023 Auto Expo and will sit below the Grand Vitara in the Nexa line-up.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno Cross SUV stylingThese spy images suggest that the Maruti Suzuki Baleno Cross will be more than just a raised hatch with more cladding. The bodywork looks significantly different from the standard Baleno. The crossover carries a more upright face with a treatment that seems quite similar to the Grand Vitara. There seems to be a large rectangular grille as well as a split-headlamp set-up. These should be all-LED units.
There could also be some minor changes to the bonnet as well as front fenders but the Baleno Cross does sit higher off the ground than the hatch. Also noticeable here is the more raked roofline. This ends in a reworked rear section with a more sloping windscreen and slim taillamps, again inspired by the Grand Vitara. There are also chunkier rear bumpers.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno Cross SUV interiors, featuresThe interiors of the Maruti Suzuki Baleno Cross, codenamed the YTB, should be heavily derived from the one in the hatchback. So expect to see the more flowing look of the new one but with some changes made to textures and finishes to differentiate the two cars. We expect interior space to remain the same but there could be a drop in rear headroom with the new styling.
The features list should also remain largely the same as the regular Baleno, although Maruti Suzuki could do well to add equipment like ventilated seats and a sunroof. Other features expected are a 9-inch touchscreen with Android Auto/Apple Carplay, HUD, climate control, cruise control, connected tech, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, auto headlamps among other things.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno Cross SUV expected enginesThe Maruti Suzuki Baleno Cross will most likely be mechanically identical to the standard Baleno, also there should be some differences in suspension and steering tune to account for the raised ride height. The base engine option should be the 1.2-litre K12C Dual Jet petrol with its 90PS and 113 Nm. This pairs with a five-speed manual or a five-speed manual. A fuel-efficiency figure of over 20 kmpl with this powertrain can be expected.
But Maruti Suzuki could well add a more potent engine option to go with this, considering this looks like a more aggressively positioned product. This could be the hybrid drivetrain from the Grand Vitara but we think bringing back the BoosterJet turbo could be a more natural choice, considering newer Marutis have been criticized for their meagre performance.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno Cross SUV expected prices, launch dateThe Maruti Suzuki Baleno Cross should be priced at about Rs 1.5 to Rs 2 lakh more than an equivalent Baleno. Currently, prices for the Baleno hatch range between Rs 6.49 and Rs 9.71 lakh. The coupe-SUV derivative could be a major unveil for Maruti Suzuki at the 2023 Auto Expo.
Image source: Exploring wheels
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