Boost Is The Secret...

...of the Baleno RS’ new engine.

- Lijo Mathai

RS! The badge holds high regard in any car enthusiast’s heart. While different foreign manufacturers did bring in their versions – Octavia, Laura and Avant, there wasn’t any Indian company joining the fray. Maruti was supposed to bring out the Swift RS, but what we got instead was the limited edition cosmetic-only trim in 2015. Then the Ciaz with a similar body kit showed up. But now, the company has a proper RS trim in the Baleno and we were invited to the BIC to drive it.

The cars at the BIC were already warmed up for us by the good folk at Maruti. First impressions suggest that NVH levels are excellent for a 3-cylinder engine, so much that you will not believe it’s one cylinder less than the regular 1.2l petrol. This 998cc fixed geometry turbopetrol is an all-new motor and makes 102PS/150Nm.

If you remember, the car showcased at the Auto Expo had a rumoured 110PS/170Nm. These specifications were same as the international-spec (Boosterjetengined) trims. However, these models require 91 RON fuel and our country at the moment isn’t equipped for the same. Speaking of which, this engine is an import from Suzuki’s Japan plant and adds to about 60kg to the Baleno’s overall weight (950kg). This also adds to the cost of the car.