Being produced exclusively at Maruti Suzuki Manesar plant, the new Baleno is slated for launch in India on October 26. To be sold exclusively through NEXA outlets, Maruti’s premium dealership chain, Baleno production target for the first year are at 80,000 units.
Following its successful launch in India, Maruti Suzuki Baleno hatchback will be shipped to 100 markets globally, which also includes Japan and many European countries. To meet the demand from 100 export markets, most of the Baleno produced in India will be exported (as exports have a better profit margin).
A person close to the matter reveals that 60% of the Baleno manufactured in India will be exported. This leaves India with about 32,000 units for the first year (or 2,666 units a month). This could result in huge waiting periods in India, where the demand is expected to be very high.
In India, Maruti Baleno will be powered by a 1.2 liter K-Series petrol engine offering 83 bhp power and 115 Nm torque and a 1.3 liter Fiat sourced DDiS diesel engine capable of 74 bhp power and 190 Nm torque.
Both these engines will be mated to 5 speed manual transmission while the petrol engine will also get a CVT automatic gearbox. Fuel efficiency on board the petrol variant will stand at 21.4 kmpl and at 27.39 kmpl on its diesel engined counterpart. Where its export models are concerned, the European spec model will receive a new 1.0 liter BoosterJet turbocharged petrol engine generating 110 PS. Though this engine will be made in India, it will not be offered to Indian customers.
While markets for Maruti Baleno exports have not yet been detailed, the company as on date exports its cars to 125 countries across the globe in Asia, Europe, Africa and South America.
Photos
via Livemint.com
