Maruti Suzuki is renowned for its fuel efficiency and attractive pricing. And now it is working on something bigger that could surprise many. The next generation of Maruti cars is set to get more fuel-efficient than ever. And here’s how?
Attention Readers! Join us on Whatsapp Community for daily auto news updates.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno Hybrid!
The Maruti Baleno is a value-for-money option for those looking for a car under the Rs 11 lakh mark. And with the facelift coming within the next 2 months, it will also get some key additions to the feature list. But Maruti has bigger plans for it.
Currently, Maruti uses Toyota’s technology in its hybrid cars, such as the Invicto, Grand Vitara, and Victoris. It has now begun developing its own series-hybrid technology for its models. Maruti will aim to make HEVs more affordable than ever. And with JSW also entering the hybrid segment, things could get competitive. The Fronx will be the first to benefit from this tech, with the Baleno following suit.
Also Read: Defender For The Price Of An Innova!
Maruti Baleno Hybrid – What To Expect?
The hybrid car will be completely identical to the standard Baleno. From the outside, it would be difficult to tell it is a hybrid, except for the hybrid badging. However, the cabin packaging could be slightly compromised. The outgoing Baleno got 4 stars in BNCAP, and the safety won’t be compromised with the hybrid. In fact, Maruti may improve the platform with this new powertrain.
The features would be identical to the ICE version. The feature list could include wireless charging, an electric sunroof, cruise control, a 360-degree camera, a heads-up display, etc. Maruti may add a few more features, such as front-seat ventilation, when the hybrid is launched.
Also Read: Planning To Buy Thar? Consider Buying This Instead!
Powertrain
Industry sources suggest that the Baleno hybrid will use the K-series 1.2-litre NA petrol engine, which is currently used in the Swift and Dzire. And with Maruti slowly phasing out the older 1.2-litre 4-cylinder engine, this move seems inevitable. But what is so special about this series hybrid?
The series hybrid is much simpler than the conventional series-parallel hybrid system. To put it simply, the electric motor drives the wheels with the battery pack and the ICE engine powering it. In essence, the 1.2-litre engine will act as a generator. There is minimal mechanical linkage, which means the system is inexpensive and easy to maintain.
Furthermore, the biggest positive of the hybrid tech would be fuel efficiency. The outgoing Baleno has a claimed mileage of around 22-23 kmpl, and this would see a significant push with the hybrid.
Also Read: Most Feature-Loaded Hyundai SUV Is On The Way!
Maruti Baleno Hybrid – Expected Pricing & Launch
Maruti will make hybrids affordable with this new tech. While you may have to pay around Rs 1 lakh more in premium than the ICE counterpart, you would make up for it in no time. The Baleno hybrid would cost around Rs 8 lakh and Rs 13 lakh (on-road, Mumbai). And when you consider that the cheapest hybrid in the market right now costs Rs 20 lakh, this seems like a great deal.
The simplicity of the series hybrid will make it affordable. Maruti has been working on it for quite some time. Maruti would try to refine the technology and unveil the Baleno hybrid by mid-2027. Currently, hybrid cars are given the same treatment as ICE cars by the government. HEVs fall into the same 40% tax bracket as ICE cars, which may have discouraged some automakers from introducing hybrids in India. By the time Maruti introduces the hybrid, we could see more lenient taxation on hybrid vehicles.
Also Read: 4 Upcoming Cars That Will Surprise You!
Hi, I’m Ravindra Meena , a bike and automobile enthusiast. I share honest reviews, mileage tests, and latest updates about bikes, cars, and EVs to help you make the right choice. Stay connected for real-world insights and trending auto news! 🏍️🚗