New Suzuki Baleno Hatchback Destined for New Zealand

Baleno, the new small-car challenger from Suzuki, is set for launching on the New Zealand market in the second half of this year.

A compact, five-door hatchback, the stylish Baleno with its swooping body, is built on a new modular platform that is a key element in the new model’s fight against weight.

The efficient platform is 100 kg lighter than the platform used on the popular Suzuki Swift, and other weight-saving measures have contributed to the car’s outstanding fuel economy and brisk performance. Engineers were able to lower overall weight by applying techniques developed for the new Suzuki Vitara.

The new Baleno is additional to the Suzuki passenger car range and is larger than the current Swift. At 3,995mm, it is 145mm longer than the Swift, while the body is 50mm wider. A longer wheelbase also contributes to greater interior space and a generous 355 litre capacity boot.

“We are delighted to have an added dimension to our small car range,” said Gary Collins, General Manager of Automobile Marketing for Suzuki New Zealand. “The new generation Baleno is set to break new ground in fuel efficiency and cost of ownership in the small car segment.”

“It will be complementary to our Swift range and a great step-up for customers wanting more space,” he said.