Maruti has begun deliveries for the 2026 Baleno facelift, a refresh of its bestselling premium hatchback that now includes a more efficient engine, updated safety tech, and new color options. The facelift positions the Baleno against rivals like the Tata Altroz and Hyundai i20, with pricing now finalized for all variants after an initial reveal of just the base model. With dispatches to dealers in progress, customer handovers are expected within days, marking the first full update to the model since its 2020 launch.
Pricing drops for the base Sigma, CNG starts at Rs 7.92 lakh
The base Sigma variant—previously priced at Rs 6.10 lakh—now starts at Rs 5.99 lakh, retaining only a 5-speed manual transmission. Maruti had initially announced only the Sigma’s price at launch, leaving higher trims unconfirmed until now. Mid-range trims like the Delta begin at Rs 7 lakh for the manual, with the AMT version at Rs 7.50 lakh, while the Alpha trim starts at Rs 9.10 lakh for manual and Rs 9.60 lakh for AMT. A CNG option debuts in Delta, priced at Rs 7.92 lakh, and is limited to the 5-speed manual, reflecting Maruti’s focus on cost-effective powertrain choices for budget buyers.
The Zeta trim offers all three powertrain choices: Rs 8 lakh for manual, Rs 8.50 lakh for AMT, and Rs 8.92 lakh for CNG. Higher trims, Alpha and Alpha (O), skip CNG but add features like ventilated front seats and a premium audio system. The top Alpha (O) starts at Rs 9.50 lakh for manual and Rs 9.99 lakh for AMT.
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Engine swap improves efficiency, but power drops
Maruti replaced the previous 1.2-liter four-cylinder K12N engine with a three-cylinder Z12E, now shared with the Swift and Dzire. Output falls to 83 hp and 112 Nm, down from 90 hp and 113 Nm, but manual variants now deliver 23.80 km/l, while AMT achieves 24.77 km/l. The CNG version claims 33.61 km per kg.
Safety upgrades standard across all trims
Even the base Sigma now includes six airbags, electronic stability control with hill hold, and brake assist. The Sigma’s standard equipment also includes manual AC, all power windows, central locking, keyless entry, a rear defogger, and a gear shift indicator, along with a speedometer paired with a tachometer. LED projector headlamps and alloy wheels appear starting with the Zeta, which also adds Suzuki Connect, automatic climate control, and a 9-inch touchscreen with wireless CarPlay and Android Auto. The top Alpha (O) gets Level 2 ADAS, including features like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, vehicle sway warning, advanced emergency braking, and forward collision warning.
Interior updates span all variants, with the Sigma getting halogen headlamps and fabric upholstery, while higher trims swap to leather and add features like a rear wiper, wireless charging, and a tilt-adjustable steering wheel. The Alpha (O) includes a premium audio system, leatherette seat upholstery, and front ventilated seats.
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Exterior tweaks and CNG’s best-in-segment efficiency
The facelift’s visual changes, like the NEXWave grille, body-colored bumpers, and NEXA signature LED tail lamps—are available even on the base model. The Sigma also gains fender chrome garnish and a back door spoiler, ensuring even the entry-level variant maintains a premium appearance. The CNG variant’s 33.61 km/kg efficiency is a segment-high figure, though its Rs 7.92 lakh price limits appeal to budget-conscious buyers.
Deliveries to dealers have begun, with customer handovers expected within days. The facelift’s emphasis on efficiency and safety could help the Baleno retain its lead in a competitive segment, though the power trade-off may prompt some buyers to reconsider. The model’s refreshed styling and expanded feature list across trims aim to address criticisms from earlier iterations while maintaining its position as the country’s bestselling premium hatchback.
