The 2023 Auto Expo is not so far away and Maruti Suzuki is all set to showcase the new Baleno Cross. The crossover version of the premium hatchback had been spotted testing in India earlier, however, Maruti has given no indication towards a launch. Codenamed as ‘YTB’, the Baleno cross is a higher set and tougher version of the existing Baleno. But is it worth the wait? Today, let’s see the comparison of Maruti Baleno vs Baleno Cross!
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Maruti Baleno vs Baleno Cross! – Design
Though the Baleno cross is a new variant of the existing Baleno, it is going to be an all-new product. The design is going to be very different, and so are the interiors. The Baleno Cross sits on Maruti’s heartect platform. The all-new design will be inspired by the Grand Vitara, and the car will be significantly taller. Body cladding across the sides is expected for a bolder look. The regular Baleno on the other hand looks much more sedated. It looks like a proper urban car with flight premium touches. The design of both these cars is well done, and it is a matter of personal choice.
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Interiors
The interiors of any car are just as important. The Baleno currently features a black and navy blue combination on the inside. These colors look quite unique and set the car apart. The quality of interiors is decent, and the same quality is also expected on the Cross variant. However, the Baleno Cross may get an all-black or a red-and-black theme for the interior.
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Maruti Baleno vs Baleno Cross – Features
The features list for the Baleno Cross is not released yet, however, we don’t expect many additions over the existing Baleno. It is already pretty loaded and gets everything a daily driver needs. A sunroof is highly unlikely for this segment. The features on the current Baleno include diamond-cut alloy wheels, a 360-degree camera, a 9-inch infotainment screen, and a heads-up display.
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Engine
Word on the street says that the Baleno Cross will bring back the 1L turbo petrol that we saw on the Baleno RS a couple of years ago. This 3-cylinder engine makes ~100HP and 150nm. Both manual and automatic transmissions are expected along with this engine. For the lower variants, Maruti may continue with the existing 1.2L engine that produces 89HP. This will be available with the standard manual and AMT options. The 1L engine here definitely sounds exciting, however, Maruti should tune it to around 120HP to compete with the i20 N-Line. The Cross variant is definitely better in terms of performance in this comparison of the Maruti Baleno vs Baleno Cross!
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Pricing
Currently, the Baleno starts at Rs. 6.49 Lakhs and goes all the way up to Rs. 9.71 Lakhs for the top-sec models. The pricing of the Baleno Cross will be at least Rs. 80,000 – Rs. 1,20,000 more than the regular model. In terms of VFM, the regular Baleno definitely steps ahead in this comparison of Maruti Baleno vs Baleno Cross.
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Should you wait?
So should you wait for the Baleno Cross? Well, you should if you really want the bolder look. The turbo petrol engine is also something that is worth waiting for. However, if you want a car with decent features, good mileage, and a comfortable cabin, the cheaper Baleno is a good choice.
Here was a quick comparison of the Maruti Baleno vs Baleno Cross! Which one would you pick? Let us know in the comments below!