Maruti Baleno RS: Bookings commence on official website

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Maruti Suzuki has started accepting bookings for the Baleno RS on its official website, ahead of the car's launch, which is scheduled for March 3, 2017. The features, specifications and colour-related details have also been published on the website.

The launch of the Baleno RS will also mark the India debut of Suzuki's 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder BoosterJet turbo petrol engine. In the India-spec model, this engine will be developing 101 BHP @ 5,500 rpm and 150 Nm of torque @ 1,700-4,500 rpm. The engine will be mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. The car also gets disc brakes all round and 16-inch alloy wheels that are shod with 195/55 section tyres.

The Baleno RS will be available in 7 colour options - same as the regular Baleno. These include Fire Red, Urban Blue, Premium Silver, Autumn Orange, Ray Blue, Pearl Arctic White and Granite Grey. Interestingly, the much hyped black colour that the car was often spotted in during testing runs, will not be available.

The RS model will share most of its design elements with the standard Baleno. The only visible changes include new front and rear bumpers and a set of black alloy wheels. Additionally, the front grille has also been slightly revised.

The Baleno RS is expected to be positioned against the likes of the Volkswagen Polo GT TSI and Punto Abarth.