Over the years, Indian buyers have shifted focus from small hatchbacks to compact SUVs. Yet, for those who still prioritise parking ease, fuel efficiency, and cabin comfort, a practical hatchback continues to offer a strong value proposition. The Maruti Suzuki Baleno is one such car that has quietly held its ground. But with the market changing fast, does it still remain relevant?

If you're weighing options, especially for city driving, this breakdown of the Baleno’s dimensions and space management might help.

How Big is the Baleno, Really?

While its design gives it a wide stance, the actual numbers show how it fits into India’s busy cityscapes.

• The Baleno is under 4 metres long, which helps keep it in the lower tax bracket for hatchbacks.
• Its turning radius of 4.85 metres means tight U-turns or parallel parking isn’t stressful.
• Despite being compact in size, the 2520 mm wheelbase allows for decent legroom, even in the back seat.

From a purely dimension-focused view, the Maruti Suzuki Baleno still offers one of the most balanced footprints in its class.

Boot Space and Utility

If you often shop for groceries or plan weekend drives, you’ll need a boot that holds more than just a couple of bags. The Baleno offers 318 litres of boot space. That’s enough for a medium-size suitcase, a duffle bag, and a laptop backpack all together.

In variants with split-folding rear seats, you can fold down one part to carry larger items while still keeping a rear passenger seat open. This flexibility becomes very useful for urban lifestyles.

Interior Layout and Seating Room

The Maruti Suzuki Baleno’s cabin remains spacious and airy for a hatchback. Here’s what stands out:

• Seats five without cramping, thanks to the flat rear floor.
• Rear legroom is decent even for taller adults.
• Front headroom is sufficient, with a wide windshield improving road visibility.

Higher variants also offer features like:

• Adjustable headrests (front and rear)
• Rear seat armrest
• Rear AC vents
• Tilt and telescopic steering adjust

All of this adds to the practicality without demanding more road space.

Which Variant Offers the Best Practical Value?

The Baleno is available in multiple trims: Sigma, Delta, Zeta and Alpha. Here’s a quick comparison of features that affect everyday usability.

From this, it’s clear that starting from the Delta variant, you begin to see real-life benefits. If you're buying for long-term use, the Zeta or Alpha variants offer the most usable features.

Fuel Options: Petrol or CNG?

You can pick between two powertrains:

Petrol Variant

• Offers a fuel efficiency of up to 22.94 km/l (AMT)
• Ideal for a mix of highway and city usage
• Smoother to drive with broader gear ratios

CNG Variant

• Delivers 30.61 km/kg
• Makes most sense for daily commutes or office runs
• Slight compromise on boot space, but more savings on fuel

If your driving is mostly within the city and budget is a top concern, the CNG option adds long-term value. On the other hand, the petrol variant offers better performance and convenience.

Driving Experience and Manoeuvrability

With MacPherson struts in the front and torsion beam suspension at the rear, the Baleno handles potholes and speed bumps without fuss. The comfort levels across uneven surfaces remain consistent.

Key aspects for city driving:

• Power steering as standard
• Lightweight frame, making it easier to control
• Compact footprint with great outward visibility

These attributes make the Maruti Suzuki Baleno a trusted companion for urban and semi-urban areas.

Safety Meets Practical Design

Every variant comes with safety essentials, which include:

• Six airbags
• ABS with EBD
• Rear parking sensors
• Seatbelt reminders
• ISOFIX child seat anchors

From the Zeta trim onward, it adds:

• Rear-view camera
• Hill Hold Assist (only with AMT)
• Seatbelt pre-tensioners with force limiters

While these aren’t luxury features, they contribute directly to daily confidence while driving in mixed conditions.

Paint Options for All Tastes

The Maruti Suzuki Baleno is available in the following shades:

• Nexa Blue
• Arctic White
• Splendid Silver
• Grandeur Grey
• Opulent Red
• Luxe Beige
• Bluish Black

This variety ensures you don’t have to settle for plain. Whether you prefer a subtle grey or a bolder red, there’s something that aligns with your personal style.

Final Thoughts: Still Practical, Still Relevant

The Maruti Suzuki Baleno continues to justify its presence in 2025 by ticking the right boxes:

• Easy to drive and park
• Spacious for both passengers and luggage
• Good feature distribution across variants
• Strong fuel efficiency in both petrol and CNG versions
• Solid safety kit even in base models

If your goal is to buy a car that delivers consistent comfort, low running costs, and an uncluttered experience in Indian cities, the Baleno is still a top pick.