The Baleno is powered by a 1.2-litre, K Series Dual Jet, Dual VVT engine, which is a four-cylinder unit. In its petrol only configuration, it produces 88 hp of power and 113 Nm of torque. Here, the transmission options include a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automated manual transmission.

The car also comes in a CNG variant, which utilizes a dual-fuel calibration. In CNG mode, the powertrain generates 76.5 hp of power and 98.5 Nm of torque. This CNG-compatible engine is paired exclusively with the 5-speed manual transmission.

The ARAI-certified fuel efficiency figures are 22.35 km/l for the manual and 22.94 km/l for the AMT, positioning it well among top automatic cars at the moment. For those prioritising running costs, the CNG variant presents a lower per-kilometre cost due to cheaper fuel pricing across most Indian cities, supported by its 30.61 km/kg rating. The trade-off is a reduced boot and no split-folding rear seat on the CNG variant.

Additionally, the ISS (Idle Start Stop) technology, which cuts the engine at a standstill and restarts it when engaging the clutch or brake pedal, does help marginally in heavy traffic by cutting idle fuel consumption.

The Baleno's cabin utilizes chrome accents, flowing lines, and dual-tone themes which is further defined by a leather-wrapped steering wheel, piano black inserts, and ergonomic controls, maintaining the standard expected from the top car companies in India.

The dashboard is anchored by a central SmartPlay Pro+ touchscreen infotainment system (up to 9-inch) which supports wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, voice assist, and ARKAMYS audio. This tech-focused environment is rounded out by a head-up display, 360-degree camera, and a TFT driver display, alongside essential aids like cruise control and automatic climate control.

For occupants, the seats are shaped for support while providing generous legroom and headroom. Passenger convenience is further addressed with a front armrest, rear AC vents, and USB Type-A & C ports. Lastly, a 318-litre boot provides usable space for luggage.

Baleno follows Maruti NEXA's "Crafted Futurism" design language, featuring a “Liquid Flow” body shape with strong shoulder lines and sharp creases. At 3,990 mm long, 1,745 mm wide, and 1,500 mm tall on a 2,520 mm wheelbase, it sits in proportion typical of a B-segment hatchback.

At the front, the NEXWave grille features chrome strips and is flanked by LED projector headlamps with NEXTre’ LED DRLs, forming a distinct lighting signature. The sculpted bumper adds definition to the overall fascia.

Along the sides, the profile is defined by flowing lines and a sloping roofline, giving it a sportier appearance. This is complemented by 15 or 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, depending on the variant, while body-colored door handles and ORVMs with integrated turn indicators maintain a consistent look.

Lastly at the rear, the NEXTre’ LED tail lamps follow a flowing design theme with a C-shaped lighting signature. Additional elements such as a rear spoiler and chrome accents contribute to the overall design.

The Baleno delivers strong occupant safety through its rigid HEARTECT platform, constructed with high-tensile and ultra-high-tensile steel to absorb and disperse crash energy while preserving cabin integrity. In 2025 crash testing conducted by Bharat NCAP, the vehicle achieved a 4-star safety rating for adult occupant protection (both 2 and 6-airbag variants) and a 3-star rating for child occupant protection. Though international tests like Latin NCAP were lower, Bharat NCAP confirms its well-rounded, segment-competitive safety for confident driving on diverse roads.

Passive safety across all variants of the hatchback includes up to six airbags (standard on higher variants), further equipped with three-point ELR seatbelts featuring front pretensioners and force limiters, seatbelt reminders, and ISOFIX child seat anchors. Additional security functions integrated into the vehicle include impact-sensing door unlocks, and speed-sensing automatic door locks.

On active safety side, features comprise Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, and an Electronic Stability Program (ESP) paired with Hill Hold Assist. Driver assistance during low-speed maneuvers is supported by standard rear parking sensors, while higher trims upgrade the system to include a reverse camera and a 360-degree view system, alongside a mandated high-speed alert monitor.

Hyundai’s i20 and Tata’s Altroz stand out to be clear competitors to Baleno in its segment. Here, look for a mix of features, efficiency, and overall value, areas where the Baleno aims to stay competitive.

The i20 features a cabin highlighted by a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen (versus the Baleno's 9-inch unit), and offers a CVT automatic on its standard 1.2-litre petrol variants. A dual-clutch automatic is also available, but only on the sportier N-Line sub-model with the 1.0-litre turbo engine, it is not an option on the mainstream i20 lineup. The Baleno, however, delivers significantly better fuel economy across the board. The i20's ARAI-rated mileage ranges from 16 kmpl (manual) to 20 kmpl (CVT), compared to the Baleno's 22.35 kmpl on the manual and 22.94 kmpl on the automatic. The Baleno also benefits from lower overall ownership costs and the availability of a CNG variant.

The Altroz distinguishes itself with a stellar 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating and six airbags as standard across all variants, not just select trims. It also offers a class-leading 345-litre boot and a wider powertrain lineup, including a 1.5-litre diesel alongside petrol and CNG options, which the Baleno does not match. The Baleno counters with superior running costs, an ARAI-rated 22.35 kmpl for petrol and a highly efficient CNG option rated at 30.61 km/kg.