Maruti Baleno Delta CNG: Features, Price, and Impressive Mileage
The Maruti Baleno Delta CNG stands out as a premium hatchback in its segment. This second-base Delta CNG model offers a blend of style, comfort, and efficiency. It is well-regarded for its exceptional mileage, reliable after-sales service, and strong resale value, making it a popular choice among car buyers.
Price and Variants
The Maruti Baleno range offers various options. The base Sigma model starts at ₹6,74,000 ex-showroom. If you choose the Delta CNG variant, the ex-showroom price is ₹8,48,000. On-road in Lucknow, the Baleno Delta CNG is approximately ₹9,58,000. For comparison, the Delta Petrol variant is roughly ₹1,00,000 less, coming in at about ₹8,58,000 on-road in Lucknow.
Exterior Design and Dimensions
The Baleno boasts an attractive exterior with practical features.
Front Profile
The front features a matte black grille with the Suzuki logo at the center. A chrome strip extends from one headlamp to the other, adding a premium touch. It includes projector headlamps with a yellow light setup and integrated indicators. This variant does not come with fog lamps. The lower grille is also black, and a towing hook option is available on the side bumper.
Side Profile
The A-pillar is finished in black. The car comes with 15-inch steel rims wrapped in 185/65 R15 radial tires. It has disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. The ORVMs (Outside Rear View Mirrors) are electrically adjustable and include integrated turn indicators. The roof is plain, as there is no sunroof option. The B-pillar has a matte black finish, and the door handles match the body color.
Rear Profile
At the rear, the Suzuki logo is centrally placed. The tail lights feature an LED setup, while the indicators and reverse light use normal halogen bulbs. This variant includes a defogger but no rear wiper. A CNG sticker is present, along with a high-mount stop lamp and a power antenna. The rear bumper matches the body color and houses four reverse parking sensors and reflectors. The license plate light is a yellow halogen bulb. Although a touchscreen is present, this variant does not include a reverse camera, which can be installed later as an accessory.
Dimensions and Ground Clearance
The Maruti Baleno has a length of 3990 mm, a width of 1745 mm, and a height of 1500 mm. The wheelbase measures 2520 mm. The ground clearance is approximately 170 mm.
Fueling and Boot Space
The fuel filler cap, which provides access for both petrol and CNG nozzles, is conveniently located in one place. The petrol tank capacity is about 35 to 37 liters, while the CNG tank can hold roughly 8 to 9 kg, depending on pump pressure and existing gas.
The boot space, typically around 318 liters, is reduced in the CNG variant due to the placement of the CNG tank. The spare tire is also located in the boot. For larger items, the rear seats offer a 60-40 split folding option.
Interior Comfort and Features
The interior of the Baleno Delta CNG combines comfort with practical features.
Door Trims and Seating
The door trims feature a dual-tone design with black and blue fabric touches. They include power window controls, a door opener, a speaker, and a bottle holder. The seats are upholstered in fabric and offer a seat recline option. The rear seats feature three adjustable headrests (two large, one small) and three seatbelts. ISOFIX child seat mounts are also available.
Dashboard and Infotainment
The dashboard features a dual-tone layout. It includes a 7 to 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and USB connectivity. However, it does not offer many additional applications or a reverse camera. The system has a matte black finish in this variant. An automatic climate control system is present, allowing adjustment of fan speed, temperature, and airflow. Rear AC vents are not available in this Delta CNG model but can be found in higher variants.
Convenience Features
The car provides a 12V charging outlet and a Type-A USB port. Storage options include space for mobile phones, two glass holders, and a small area near the handbrake for coins. The glove box offers space for documents. The dashboard is made of hard plastic with blue and grey finishes. The IRVM (Inside Rear View Mirror) is manually adjustable. Roof lights are yellow halogen bulbs, and a microphone is included. The passenger-side sun visor has a vanity mirror, while the driver-side sun visor is plain.
Steering and Instrument Cluster
The steering wheel features a Suzuki logo in the center with chrome accents. It includes controls for mode, mute, Bluetooth, and telephony. The steering is tilt-adjustable. The instrument cluster is fully analog, displaying an RPM meter, speedometer (marked up to 220), and various check lights. A central screen provides information such as trip data, average mileage, range, and fuel levels (CNG and petrol).
Engine Performance and Mileage
The Maruti Baleno Delta CNG is powered by a 1.2-liter, four-cylinder petrol engine.
Petrol Mode
In petrol mode, the engine produces 88 bhp of power and 113 Nm of torque. It delivers a mileage of up to 20 kmpl.
CNG Mode
When running on CNG, the power output is slightly reduced to 75 bhp, and the torque is around 98 Nm. However, the mileage significantly increases to 28 to 30 kmpl, making it a very fuel-efficient option. The car comes with a 5-speed manual transmission; an automatic option is available only with petrol variants in higher trims.
Safety Features
Safety is a priority with the Baleno Delta CNG. It comes equipped with standard features like ABS with EBD and six airbags. Other safety systems include reverse parking sensors, a speed alert system, seatbelt warnings, an engine immobilizer, a crash sensor, traction control, and ESP (Electronic Stability Program). Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is not available in this variant.
Color Options
The Maruti Baleno Delta CNG is available in several attractive colors, including White, Red, Black, Grey, and Silver.
Competition and Strengths
The Maruti Baleno competes with other popular hatchbacks like the Hyundai i20 and Tata Altroz. While some opinions suggest its build quality could be better, the Baleno truly excels in key areas. Its standout strengths are its superior mileage, excellent after-sales service, and impressive resale value, making it a strong contender in its segment.
Financing Example
For the Delta CNG variant priced at ₹9,58,000 on-road in Lucknow, a down payment of ₹4,58,000 would leave ₹5,00,000 to be financed. Over a 5-year period, the estimated EMI would be around ₹10,000 per month.
The Maruti Baleno Delta CNG offers a compelling package for those seeking a premium hatchback that combines style, essential features, and outstanding fuel efficiency.