Maruti Suzuki Baleno RS: Speedy update

The new Maruti Suzuki Baleno RS speaks a new language of speed and power

In all honesty I entered the Buddh International Circuit with the thought that this was just another day at work, with me behind the wheel of yet another car with a fancy name. But what was to come next would simply baffle me. Yes, I knew there were a few changes in the output figures — number of cylinders, kerb weight, chassis and suspension. But how well would all of these changes fit in with Maruti Suzuki's latest baby, the Baleno RS? Settling behind the wheel, I gently nudged the accelerator, and the almost instant throttle response gave me a little glee. As I began pushing the RS a little harder, I was thrilled at how effortlessly this hatchback responded to my demands. Its little 1.0 litre, turbocharged, petrol engine is not humble in the least. Like an over-eager kid in a candy store, I began redlining the Baleno RS on every gear. 

Mated to a five-speed transmission, the Boosterjet engine turns 150Nm of torque from 1,700-4,500 rpm and a neat 100.5bhp at 5,500 rpm. The revs build up in a linear fashion right up to the 6,000 rpm mark. Pushing this hot hatch hard on the back straight of the Buddh International Circuit, I was able to achieve a top speed of 172 kmph and ran out of track before I could up-shift to fifth gear.

Maruti has also included disc brakes on all four wheels — the brakes are progressive, immensely capable and can easily bring this hatch to a halt in seconds. The suspension leans marginally on the stiffer side and feels sporty. Maruti has not dropped the ride height of the Baleno RS. Even the chassis felt a little rigid, thus giving the driver more control, especially while taking corners and speeding out of them. What delighted me most about the Baleno RS was its tail-happy nature. It will bring out its rear on sharp corners, but even the gentlest of taps on the accelerator pedal will bring it back in line. 

Launched in the single Alpha variant, the Baleno RS complies with pedestrian safety norms, side and frontal offset impact norms, well before the deadline. Maruti has also included dual airbags, seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters, ABS & EBD and an extensive use of high strength steel in construction.

MARUTI SUZUKI BALENO RS

Engine: 998 cc, 3-cylinder, Turbocharged, petrol

Transmission: 5-speed, manual

Torque:  150 Nm@1,700-4,500 rpm

Fuel tank capacity: 37 litres

Power: 100.5 bhp@5,500 rpm
 

Price: Rs 8.69 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)