Next-gen Maruti Baleno - Hybrid Engine, Mileage Over 35kmpl, Launch Details

We reported earlier that Maruti Suzuki is developing an all-new hybrid engine, which will power its mass-market cars. The Fronx facelift will be the first model to receive the new hybrid engine. MSIL is also developing the next-gen Baleno hatchback and a new sub-4 meter MPV based on the Suzuki SPACIA. Both these models will also receive the new in-house developed hybrid engine. 

Next-gen Maruti Baleno Launch Details

First launched in 2015, the Suzuki Baleno has been the top-selling hatchback in the premium segment. The hatchback received its first major upgrade in 2019, followed by a significant upgrade in February 2022. MSIL is reportedly developing the new-gen Baleno hatchback, which is expected to be introduced sometime in 2026 or 2027. 

Hybrid Engine with Mileage Over 35kmpl

Maruti Suzuki is developing a cheaper series hybrid engine that is essentially a range extender. Codenamed HEV, the new series hybrid engine will power the Fronx, Baleno, SPACIA based MPV, Swift and the next-gen Brezza. 

In the series hybrid engine, the petrol engine act as a generator or range extender. Instead of directly powering the vehicle, the petrol engine produces electricity to power an electric motor that drives the wheels. The motor draws electric power from either a small battery pack, which is continuously charged by a petrol engine. 

The new Maruti Suzuki’s HEV hybrid engine will comprise of an all-new Z12E, three-cylinder petrol engine. This engine will act as a generator to charge a small 1.5-2kWh battery pack or power the electric motor, which will drive the wheels. 

It is expected that the next-gen Maruti Suzuki Baleno will offer a mileage of over 35kmpl, making it the most fuel efficient in its category. Hyundai is also preparing a new 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine, which will be hybrid ready. This new engine will power the Bayon crossover, which will arrive in our market in 2026. 

Also See - Next-Gen Hyundai Creta to Get Four Engine Options, Including a Hybrid