The 2022 Suzuki Baleno GLX - A Value Proposition Hard to Beat
The motoring world has long recognized Suzuki as a brand that delivers fun, frugal, and functional products. Case in point: the Jimny, Celerio, and the widely loved Swift. Nestled in this impressive line-up is the Baleno, an often understated yet highly efficient offering that has continuously won over hearts in Potchefstroom and beyond.
Design and Exterior
One glance at the Baleno, and you're met with a contemporary design. The latest iteration has seen wider front air intakes, a striking three-dimensional grille, LED projector-style headlamps, LED daytime running lights, and not forgetting the 16-inch polished alloys on which it sits gracefully. These upgrades not only make the Baleno a head-turner but also align it with modern design standards.
Performance
Suzuki has given the Baleno a significant upgrade under the hood. The older 1.4-litre engine has been replaced by a new 1.5-litre powerplant, boasting outputs of 77kW and 138Nm of torque. For our review, we tested the 1.5 GLX manual, which paired this engine with a five-speed manual gearbox, although an option for a four-speed automatic is available.
While not positioning itself as a hot hatch, the Baleno offers ample power for daily drives. True, you might need to push it a bit if you're looking for that rapid acceleration, especially when fully loaded, but for the average driver, its performance is more than satisfactory.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the Baleno has seen a significant revamp. Dominating the dashboard is a nine-inch infotainment system, complemented by a 4.2-inch colour display in the instrument cluster. Features such as reach adjustable-steering, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, and a 360-degree camera elevate the driving experience. A retractable head-up display, while elemental, is a feature not commonly found in this price bracket.
Driving Experience
A blend of suspension tweaks, steering adjustments, and the use of high-tensile steel in its construction results in an improved overall ride quality. Its maneuverability is especially evident on challenging routes, like those around the Cradle of Humankind. The clutch feels light, gear changes are swift, and the steering feedback is commendable. However, the addition of a sixth gear would have been beneficial for those long highway drives, aiding in both fuel efficiency and reducing engine noise.
Economy and Pricing
In an era where economic hardships are pressing on everyone's wallets, the Baleno emerges as a beacon of value. At R281,900, it's a challenge to find a competitor offering such a comprehensive package. The fuel efficiency further drives this value proposition home, with our tests showing consumption just over 6L/100km.
Models and the Advertised Retail Price (October 2023)
Baleno 1.5 GL MT: R239,900
Baleno 1.5 GL AT: R259,900
Baleno 1.5 GLX MT: R291,900
Baleno 1.5 GLX AT: R311,900
The Suzuki Baleno comes standard with a 4 year / 60 000 km Service Plan and a 5 year / 200 000 km Promotional Warranty. For the best Suzuki experience, your Suzuki Baleno must be serviced once every twelve months or every 15 000 km, whichever comes first.
Conclusion
The Suzuki Baleno doesn't pretend. It's a car that offers tremendous value for money, coupled with features and benefits often found in higher-priced segments. In the heart of Potchefstroom, where value and functionality reign supreme, the Baleno isn't just a car – it's a statement of practicality meeting modernity.
For those considering a new hatch, the Baleno stands as a testament to Suzuki's commitment to delivering quality, functionality, and value. It's not just a car; it's an experience.
Brochure on Vehicle
We added a convenient brochure/spec sheet download below for you on the Suzuki Baleno
Video Materials and Reviews
You can also view some of the Suzuki promotion videos as well as some of the reviews done at the following YouTube Link
Suzuki YouTube Videos: Click Here
Contact Suzuki Potchefstroom
Telephone: 018-000-5735
Address: 27 Nelson Mandela Drive, Potchefstroom
Google Maps Link: Click Here
Online Contact Form: Click Here
Facebook Page: Click Here (Various Special Deals Updated Regularly)
View Other Suzuki Models Covered
Suzuki EECO: Click Here
Suzuki XL6: Click Here
Suzuki Swift Sport: Click Here
Suzuki Grand Vitara: Click Here
Suzuki S-Presso: Click Here
Suzuki Ignis: Click Here
Suzuki Fronx: Click Here
Suzuki Ertiga: Click Here
Suzuki Dzire: Click Here
Suzuki Ciaz: Click Here
Suzuki Celerio: Click Here
Suzuki Baleno: Click Here
Note: Always check latest specifications and offers with your local dealership for up to date info and correctness at time of purchases as some of these may be changed, adjusted according to latest and updated releases
