Maruti Suzuki Baleno New vs Old: What’s Changed?

The Maruti Suzuki Baleno has received a major update for 2026, but it is not a completely new-generation model. While the overall shape and cabin layout remain familiar, Maruti Suzuki has made important changes under the skin and added several new features. The biggest updates include a new three-cylinder petrol engine, CNG-AMT option and Level 2 ADAS.

With prices starting at Rs 6.10 lakh (ex-showroom), the new Baleno is also slightly more affordable than the previous model was at launch. Here is a look at how the 2026 Baleno facelift compares with the 2022 model.

The 2026 Baleno facelift gets an evolutionary design update rather than a complete makeover. It now features a larger grille with horizontal black slats, redesigned bumpers and revised fog lamp housings. The 16-inch alloy wheels also get a new design, while a shark-fin antenna has been added. Buyers can also choose a new Enigmatic Teal colour.

In comparison, the 2022 Baleno brought a more noticeable styling overhaul. It introduced Maruti Suzuki's 'Crafted Futurism' design language, along with integrated LED DRLs, redesigned bumpers and C-shaped rear lamps. As a result, the new Baleno looks more like a facelift, while the 2022 model represented a bigger visual change.

The 2026 Baleno continues with several features from the previous model, including a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, semi-digital instrument cluster, head-up display, automatic climate control and 360-degree camera. However, the facelift adds several new convenience features. These include ventilated front seats, tyre-pressure monitoring system and a cooled wireless charging pad. A Clarion sound system is also available.

The biggest upgrade, however, is Level 2 ADAS. The system brings features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, emergency braking and high-beam assist. The older Baleno offered six airbags, hill-hold assist, Suzuki Connect and a 360-degree camera, but ADAS was not available.

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This is where the biggest mechanical change can be found. The 2026 Baleno gets a new 1.2-litre, three-cylinder Z-Series petrol engine producing 81bhp and 111.7Nm. It is available with a five-speed manual and AMT gearbox.

The CNG version produces 69bhp and 101.8Nm, with CNG-AMT availability being one of the major additions to the lineup. The previous Baleno used a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine that produced 88.5 bhp and 113 Nm. It was offered with a five-speed manual and AGS AMT. The older model had a claimed fuel efficiency of 22.3 km/l with the manual and 22.9 km/l with the AGS AMT.

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The new Baleno starts at Rs 6.10 lakh (ex-showroom), making it Rs 25,000 cheaper than the previous model's launch price of Rs 6.35 lakh. The 2022 Baleno was priced between Rs 6.35 lakh and Rs 9.49 lakh (ex-showroom) at launch. Despite the lower starting price, the 2026 model brings considerably more safety and convenience technology.