One More Step to Go!
We have also sent a verification link to your email ID:
qabuyer@droom.in
Please verify your email account
Maruti has made a name for itself by making fuel-efficient, reliable and cheap-to-maintain cars. But this is its first attempt at a performance version of one of its cars. Naturally, in this category, fuel economy isn’t important, power is. The Baleno RS uses a new 1.0-litre, three-cylinder, direct-injection, turbocharged petrol motor that makes 102hp and 150Nm of torque. The numbers may not say much at first, but it’s the car’s light 950kg kerb weight that makes the difference. Besides the new engine, Maruti has also gone about strengthening the Baleno’s body to make the car safer.
Maruti has made subtle changes to the car’s styling. There’s a reworked grille, and different bumpers at the front and rear; the rear now looks particularly aggressive. The blacked-out headlamps, side skirts and the RS badge are what help you tell it apart from the regular car.
The cabin remains unchanged - you get the automatic climate control, 7.0-inch touchscreen with navigation, Apple CarPlay and all the other standard infotainment features. There are a few low-rent plastic bits that have crept into the RS’s cabin though. The large front seats comfortable, with soft cushioning and generous under-thigh support. At the back, there’s ample legroom and a wide bench, there’s enough room for three adults. Maruti has attempted to find middle ground between performance and practicality with this car. It could have done with a few ‘RS’ bits in the interior to tell it apart from the standard car though.
Maruti has done a good job tuning the Baleno RS’s 1.0-litre petrol engine. There’s a bit of lag when you first set off but it once you cross 1600rpm, it’s a different story. The sweet spot of this engine is between 3000rpm and 5000rpm. The five-speed manual gearbox is on the firmer side, but it’s hardly uncomfortable to use.
This car comes with a stiffer suspension, aiding stability at high speeds. The car now handles better, even on sharp turns. The slightly heavier steering also aids confidence but it doesn’t bristle with feedback. The brakes on this car are great, Maruti has added discs at the rear.
If you are looking for a slightly quicker family hatchback, this car doesn’t disappoint. It’s much more fun to drive than the standard petrol car. It is not, however, an all-out performance car. The RS badge can be a bit misleading, it gives you the impression that the car can deliver so much more. At Rs 1.4 lakh more than the standard petrol, it’s quite price difference too. What you get though is a punchy turbo engine, slightly stiffer chassis and improved steering and suspension. This car is a great car to sit on this premium hatchback’s line-up, don’t expect it to blow your mind with its performance though.
Kia recently unveiled the 2023 Seltos facelift in India, and the bookings for the updated model will start on July 14.
Read MoreWe drove the Hyundai i20 N Line recently to find out whether it really delivers a sporty experience?
Read MoreWe recently took the Tigor EV out for a spin and we gathered interesting information about it
Read MoreIntroduced last year at the Delhi Auto Expo, Volkswagen Tiguan All-Space aims to offer more room and an additional row of seats. Can it manage to take away a few chunks from the full-grown SUV pie is what we are here to find?
Read MoreNew Tata Safari or Used Tata Hexa: Price, Variants, Features & Engine Specifications
Read MoreToyota Kirloskar Motors last year entered the subcompact SUV space with the Urban Cruiser. What is this new model all about, let us find out?
Read MoreToyota Kirloskar Motors last year entered the subcompact SUV space with the Urban Cruiser. What is this new model all about, let us find out?
Read MoreThe Safari badge is back - can Tata Motors recreate history by bringing back the iconic SUV? Let us find out.
Read MoreThe Honda City, since its inception back in 1998, has enjoyed the popularity like no other mid-size sedan in its segment. With the introduction of the 5th Generation City, can Honda be able to set a higher benchmark for its most beloved sedan we try to find out.
Read MoreOn the eve of its first Anniversary, Tata Motors has given the Altroz a boost in the form of a turbo charged petrol engine. We drive it to find out how much of a thrill does it provide against its rivals.
Read MoreOne of the best-selling models for BMW world over, the 3 Series will now offer customers that extra bit of comfort due to its extended wheelbase.
Read MoreJeep had launched the Compass way back in 2017. Since then it has been the best-selling model for the company in India. A couple of days back, Jeep India unveiled the facelifted version of Compass in the country. The SUV made its global debut in November last year.
Read More