Suzuki Baleno loses turbo power in 2019 update

Suzuki has dropped the punchy 1.0-litre ‘Boosterjet’ turbo from its Baleno light hatch line-up, with the range-topping GLX now sharing the same, less-powerful engine found in the entry-level GX.

Losing the 82kW/160Nm 1.0-litre three cylinder turbo petrol engine, that’s shared with the Suzuki Swift GLX Turbo, arguably diminishes the appeal of the Baleno at the top end of its range, with its rorty exhaust note, enthusiastic throttle response and six-speed automatic having provided big points of difference over rivals such as the Toyota Yaris, Mazda 2 and Hyundai Accent.

As of September, anyone opting for the GLX will have to make do with the less powerful 68kW 1.4-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine coupled with a four-speed auto. The other side of the coin, however, is that the engine switch has enabled the GLX's price to be brought down from $21,990 to $18,990.

The change is part of the introduction of the Series II Baleno that also brings a new front-end look and freshened-up interior.

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Despite the Series II tag, the update is relatively minor with both GL and GLX variants receiving a newly designed front grille, along with revised front and rear bumpers.

Inside, keen observers will notice a new door trim colour and new seat fabric design and hue.

As well as gaining a cylinder and losing a turbocharger, the GLX also receives UV protected windscreen and auto-levelling LED headlights.

Unlike the Swift that sits above it in Suzuki Australia's range, the Baleno still misses out on active safety features such as autonomous emergency braking.

External colour options for the new look Baleno include: Fire Red, Arctic White, Granite Gray Metallic, Stargraze Blue Metallic and Premium Silver Metallic, with metallic paints attracting a $500 premium.

As before, standard equipment includes Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, satellite navigation, reversing camera, fog lights, and LED daytime running lights, with the GLX adding climate control air-conditioning, keyless entry/start, and alloy wheels.

PRICING

The Series II Baleno goes on sale from August with the arrival of the GL, with the GLX arriving from September.

MY19.5 Suzuki Baleno pricing

• Baleno GL manual - $15,990
• Baleno GL auto - $16,990
• Baleno GLX auto - $18,990