Suzuki Baleno boasts space and charm

By Gerry Murphy

Globally, Suzuki has a big reputation for its expertise in small cars and for the producing cars that top the reliability charts in almost every survey. Their latest new model was launched in Belfast last week and while the name has been used in the past, the Baleno hatchback is a fetching car with loads of character.

We all know about the characteristics of the Swift, a car that has  been a real success for the brand. The Baleno is a larger car and while the outer view is still compact, they have managed to give you additional space inside.

Two drive derivitives and two trim levels (SZ and SZ5) will go on sale here in Ireland next month. Starting with a completely new 1.0-litre, 111ps Bosterjet three cylinder engine in manual and automatic.  It will has CO2 emissions of 105g/km and is likely to be the most soughtafter model and will come with a starting price of €17,994.

Additionally, Suzuki will now have a hybrid in the catalogue of the Baleno. This technology is now utilised for the four cylinder 1.2-litre Dualjet engine with CO2 emissions of 94g/km and includes the addition of SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki). This version will start at €18,995.

A five-speed manual transmission is fitted as standard for both models; slightly different gear and final drive ratios are utilised for the SHVS and each manual transmission’s gear ratios are optimised to help provide a good combination of performance and fuel economy.

Standard equipment for all Baleno models includes six airbags, 16-inch alloy wheels, HID headlights, air conditioning, satellite navigation, DAB Radio with USB and Bluetooth connectivity, rear privacy glass and front electric windows.

SZ5 models will add automatic climate control, rear electric windows, 4.2 inch central colour trip display, LED rear lights, Adaptive Cruise Control and Radar Brake Support.

Historically, Suzuki has earned acclaim for its stylish, city-oriented designs, compact and easy to manage dimensions while also offering good performance, favourable fuel economy and low emissions. This is also the theme of the Baleno, a car that Suzuki expect to sell in the region of 400 in a full year.

Our brief run in the Ards Penninsula proved that this car is a clever mix of space, charm and liveliness. Sometimes it is comforting to know exactly what you expect from a car and a manufacturer.

There is a little bit more in the Belano than we imagined and while the 1.0-litre version is the favourite, the prices are right and the level of specification is quite surprising. I suspect that their target sales figures might just be exceeded.