SUZUKI’S Baleno hatchback strikes at the small-car heartland with appealing pricing and a good variant choice, from entry-level petrol to a more sophisticated turbocharged flagship.

The base GL variant aims straight at the budget and commuter motorist, with a low price and the promise of miserly fuel consumption. But despite these lures, ownership of the Baleno GL may not prove to be as cheap as initially indicated.

The 1.4-litre GL has few frills but is big on comfort and space. For commuters and shoppers, it’s certainly equipped with what people want.

That’s the good news but it’s clouded by something Suzuki has little control over – the allure of its competitors.

The Baleno is up against strong players including the Hyundai i30, Toyota Corolla from the small segment and the Kia Rio, Ford Fiesta and Honda Jazz form the light-car segment.

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