New 2026 Maruti Baleno Hits Market Starting at Rs 5.99 Lakh with Fresh Engine and Features

UPDATE - follow-up to Which 2026 Maruti Baleno trim should you buy?: The updated 2026 Maruti Suzuki Baleno is now available in showrooms starting at Rs 5.99 lakh for the base Sigma manual variant in Delhi. This mid-lifecycle refresh brings a new Z12E 1.2-litre three-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine that puts out 83hp and 112Nm of torque. Buyers can pair this engine with either a five-speed manual or a five-speed AMT gearbox.

Powertrains and Variants

Maruti continues to offer a factory-fitted CNG option across select variants. When running on CNG, output drops to 70hp and 102Nm, while transmission choices remain a five-speed manual or an AMT. The lineup spans from the base Sigma up to the new top-tier Alpha (O) trim, which costs up to Rs 9.99 lakh and introduces Level 2 ADAS features like lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control. Across the entire range, prices start at Rs 5.99 lakh and go up to Rs 9.99 lakh depending on the chosen trim and transmission.

Colors and Options

Exterior choices include seven paint shades such as Grandeur Grey, Enigmatic Teal Green, Opulent Red, Splendid Silver, Arctic White, Bluish Black, and Nexa Blue, while the older Luxe Beige option has been dropped. Experts suggest the mid-spec Zeta variant offers the best balance of features and powertrain choices for buyers within its Rs 8 lakh to Rs 9.32 lakh price band.

Context

Automakers frequently introduce mid-lifecycle updates to keep their popular models fresh and competitive against newer rivals in the market. Such updates typically combine minor design tweaks with added safety equipment and mechanical updates to attract a wider pool of buyers.