With easy-to-navigate technology, comfort and affordability, we recently test-drove the zippy new Suzuki Baleno hatchback and can confirm that we are officially fans!
It is amazing what you can get from an ‘entry-level’ vehicle nowadays. From parking sensors and climate control to touch-screen audio and smartphone connectivity, the stylish Suzuki Baleno delivers on all these fronts, and more.
Whether you’re a busy mom looking for a combination of both affordability and style, or a young student wanting a trendy, urban drive, this bold hatchback is a great option.
We admit we are in no way car experts … but we do a lot of driving around the North Coast, and when it comes to comfort and luxury, we just can’t fault this impressive vehicle.
Priced around the R230 000 mark, the Baleno is as lovely looking as it is advanced, with an elaborate front grille and coupé-inspired shape and an interior that will be the envy of many in any school parking lot!
After picking up the keys from the friendly team at the Suzuki Salt Rock dealership, we jumped in, familiarised ourselves with the interior … and then hit the road.
The modern 7-inch ‘infotainment’ HD touchscreen is super easy to use. We didn’t feel intimidated at all. It shows you only what you need to know – such as the radio and your fuel consumption – and then doubles as a reverse guide camera, which, of course, we love!
On the topic of fuel consumption (very important to all drivers these days), the 1.5l Baleno is super fuel-efficient, promising an average consumption of only 5.1l/100 km.
This is probably due, in large part, to the fact that the car is super lightweight. Lightweight yes, but flimsy? Not at all. Safety is of utmost importance to moms and dads driving their little ones around, but also to parents considering a vehicle for their young student.
The Suzuki Baleno offers leading safety technology as standard on all models, including rear parking sensors, ABS braking, airbags, ESP (electronic stability programme that detects wheel slippage on wet roads and automatically adjusts torque and brakes), and hill hold control.
Of course, we had to test-drive the cruise control, and after jumping on the highway it was effortless and great for long trips. The climate control is also an absolute blessing, especially in these ridiculously hot summer months.
Speaking of trips, although it is small, the Baleno is deceptively spacious. The boot is bigger than most of the other vehicles competing in this class and you could easily pack up the kids and luggage (there is a removable luggage shelf) and head off to the Drakensberg or game reserve for a night or two.
After zooting around Ballito and Salt Rock, we had to (sadly) return the Baleno back to the dealership. It’s easy to see why this vehicle is so incredibly popular though, and if you are looking for a stylish car that offers true value-for-money, then it’s definitely worth popping in and giving it a whirl!
Details: Suzuki Salt Rock, 032 648 0090, www.suzukisaltrock.co.za
