The old Maruti Suzuki Baleno in India refers to the first-generation model, which was launched in 1998. It was a significant car for Maruti Suzuki and played a key role in shaping the Indian compact sedan market. Here’s a bit about its history:

Launch and Design

The original Baleno was introduced in 1998 as a premium sedan in India. It was positioned above the Maruti 800 and the Maruti Esteem in terms of price and features, making it one of the first “higher-end” cars in Maruti’s lineup. It was based on the Suzuki Cultus, which was popular in other markets, but Maruti India gave it a more refined and stylish design suited to Indian tastes.

Features and Performance

The Baleno offered better interior space, comfort, and a more premium feel than other hatchbacks in the market at the time. It came with a 1.6L (1590 cc), 4 Cylinders Inline, 4 Valves/Cylinder, that was known for being both efficient and relatively powerful for its segment. The car also had features that were ahead of its time in India, such as power windows, air conditioning, and power steering.

Reputation

The old Baleno became known for its sturdy build, reliable performance, and spacious cabin. It quickly developed a loyal customer base and was appreciated for its smooth ride quality, solid road presence, and overall refinement. The car was also widely popular among young buyers and families looking for an upgrade from the smaller hatchbacks like the Maruti 800 or Zen.

Discontinuation and Legacy

Despite its initial success, Maruti Suzuki discontinued the first-generation Baleno in 2007, as the company shifted focus to newer models like the Swift, which became a huge success. However, the Baleno still holds a special place in the hearts of many who owned it during its heyday, with some enthusiasts still maintaining the older models to this day.

Second-Generation Baleno (2015 onwards)

In 2015, Maruti Suzuki reintroduced the Baleno in a completely new avatar. This was a more modern, contemporary hatchback built on the Global Suzuki platform, and it became an instant hit with buyers in India. The second-generation Baleno was more tech-savvy, more fuel-efficient, and sported a more premium design compared to its predecessor.

Though the new Baleno shares the same name, the first-generation model remains iconic in the history of Maruti Suzuki, especially for how it brought the idea of a “fast sedan” to the Indian market.