Expert Review
4.68/5
The Maruti Baleno is one of the easiest premium hatchbacks to recommend for everyday Indian driving. It combines a spacious cabin, large boot and compact dimensions, making it practical for both city use and family trips. The styling is smart without trying too hard, while the light controls make it easy to drive in traffic.
The 1.2-litre petrol engine is smooth and efficient, with enough performance for normal city and highway driving. The manual is easy to use, while the AMT makes more sense if most of your time is spent in traffic. Ride quality is comfortable enough for typical Indian roads, and the good visibility makes parking relatively stress-free. It is not a driver's car, but it is very easy to live with.
Who should buy it? Families and city users who want a spacious, efficient hatchback with affordable ownership.
What will bug you? Highway performance is only adequate when fully loaded, cabin insulation could be better, and some rivals offer a more premium driving experience.
