The Suzuki Baleno - A great long-distance cruiser?
The Suzuki Baleno has carved a niche for itself as a fuel-efficient and practical hatchback with low maintenance and running costs, which is why I used it in my article, namely, how to work out your car's fuel consumption. But how does it fare on the open road? Let's find out if this popular hatchback is the answer if you regularly drive long distances.
Related: These are some of SA's most fuel-efficient cars
Fuel efficiency: The Baleno's economic advantage
One of the Baleno's strongest suits is its fuel efficiency. Earlier models had a 1.4-litre engine, but the latest models all have a frugal 1.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine, returning impressive figures under 6.0 L/100km, especially when cruising at steady highway speeds. Owners often report stretching their cars' 37-litre fuel tanks remarkably far, making the Baleno an economical choice for long journeys.
Related: 5 Used Diesel SUVs with Excellent Fuel Economy
Comfort and Space: There's room to stretch out
The Baleno offers a decent amount of interior space. There's sufficient legroom for both front and rear passengers, ensuring a comfortable ride for everyone. As for comfort and convenience features, even the entry-level GL model is well-equipped!
To learn more, read the top 3 things you need to know about the Suzuki Baleno.
Handling and performance: A comfortable and planted ride
The Baleno is not designed for spirited driving, but it holds its own on the highway. Its suspension is tuned for comfort rather than outright performance, providing a relatively smooth ride even on uneven surfaces. While overtaking might require some planning due to the engine's character, the Baleno remains composed at higher speeds.
The Baleno's output is 77kW and 138 Nm, but it feels peppier because of its low weight. Read more about its performance here.
Real-world experiences: Baleno owners weigh in
To truly understand a car's long-distance capabilities, it's essential to hear from those who've put it to the test. Many Baleno owners have shared their road trip experiences, praising its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride. However, some have mentioned that the car can feel underpowered when faced with steep inclines or heavy traffic.
While the Baleno generally proves reliable on long journeys, like any car, it's susceptible to occasional hiccups. Common issues owners report include minor electrical glitches and the need for regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance.
Comparing the Baleno to its competitors: Other cars to consider
When considering the Baleno for long drives, it's worth comparing it to other options in its segment, but the Baleno offers very good value, so I would spend my money here. Unless you want a Starlet from Toyota, which is exactly the same car with a few minor differences.
The entry-level Baleno 1.5 GL manual costs R255 900, but let's look at the pricing of similar models: A VW Polo Vivo hatch 1.4 Trendline costs R266 600, the Hyundai Grand i10 1.2 hatch Premium costs R269 900, and a Fiat 500 TwinAir Cult costs R275 900.
The bottom line is that I'd still prefer the Baleno. Here's how much you can expect to pay for one each month.
(Buying used? Read our 2021 Baleno review here and our 2017 Baleno review here.)
Tips for a comfortable and fuel-efficient drive in your Baleno
Driving techniques for fuel efficiency:
- Plan your route to avoid traffic congestion - use Google Maps or Waze via the touchscreen.
- Use cruise control when possible - but it works better on even surfaces, like the N1 through the Karoo. Once you hit a mountainous area, leaving it off is better.
- Avoid excessive idling.
- Check tyre pressure regularly. When you stop at a service station for fuel, ask a pump attendant to assist; you don't want under-inflated tyres, as they make your car guzzle petrol.
- Maintain a steady speed; avoid excessive acceleration and harsh braking.
Related: Toyota Starlet vs Suzuki Baleno vs VW Polo Vivo - best infotainment system
Is the Suzuki Baleno right for road trips?
While the Baleno might not have outright power or prestige, its fuel efficiency and practicality give it a strong advantage. If you prioritise low running costs and a comfortable ride, the Baleno, or almost any Suzuki, is an excellent choice. Find out which variant of the Baleno is best here.
Looking to sell your current car fast? You should try Instant Offer. You can also search for new or used fuel-efficient models on AutoTrader here.
