What is it?

Another small hatchback from Suzuki.

The Japanese brand already has the sporty Swift in the competitive supermini market but the all-new Suzuki Baleno keeps up fun-to-drive ethos angled towards being a more spacious and practical alternative to the Swift.

It also features a brand new platform and a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine which is both punchy and economical.

As an alternative, Suzuki will also introduce a mild-hybrid version of the Baleno this year which will help keep running costs down.

What’s hot?

• When it comes to making fun-to-drive and enjoyable little cars Suzuki has always been rather consistent, and the Baleno is no exception. Although designed to be more practical the Baleno handles well and delivers decent performance.

• The 1.0-litre engine is a real gem. It produces 110bhp and because the Baleno is so light – around 100kg lighter than the Swift – it feels quick and lively.
• Another great thing about small 1.0-litre three-cylinder engines is that they are very refined and economical. Suzuki clams it will return over 62mpg and emit 103g/km of CO2, which should attract a BIK rating of 15% – although that has yet to be confirmed.
• It’s also very spacious inside. It goes head to head with the likes of the Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Corsa but the Baleno is far more practical. The 355-litre boot for example is actually larger than that of a Ford Focus.
• There’s huge amounts rear passenger space too, thanks to it being 100mm longer and 50mm wider than the Swift.
• Being a Suzuki the Baleno also represents rather good value for money. Top spec model which should cost around £14,000, will come as standard with heated seats, navigation, reversing camera, air conditioning and colour touchscreen display.

What’s not so hot?

• In such a competitive sector the Baleno looks in danger of fading into the background because of its rather dull and forgetful styling. It lacks the flair of the Fiesta and doesn’t look as premium as the VW Polo.
• Inside, while it may be very spacious, interior quality is not up to class standard. There are hard, scratchy black plastics covering almost every surface which are neither nice to touch or to look at.
• Around town the ride is well judged, but at higher speeds there is quite a lot of wind noise produced by the windscreen pillars which can be irritating on longer journeys.
• Suzuki is still yet to announce official pricing which means we can’t give you definite costs for annual company car tax bills, although we have calculated some estimates.

Verdict?

As long as you’re not expecting a faultless package, the Baleno is a good all-rounder.

It’ll certainly be strong value for money and it’s seriously spacious inside, which makes it an affordable and practical family run-around.

There are some issues concerning styling and overall quality, which could deter buyers but there will be a raft of standard kit to help compensate.

Low down on Suzuki Baleno

…..and what it costs