Baleno RS

Maruti says that the car has 10 percent stiffer suspension, but honestly, I couldn’t tell the difference. It handles not so different to the regular Baleno which is a very predictable car. The balance is so neutral through the corners and even a novice would be able to get to the limits in this one. We do wish the steering offered a bit more feedback and it was more eager to turn into corners. The Baleno RS also gets disc brakes at the rear which gives a lot more confidence. Even after repeated pounding at the Buddh International track, they remained fade-free and offered good bite and feedback.

As a daily driver with a dose of performance, the Baleno RS is up there with the Polo GT and Punto  Abarth. It is a good chassis for a fun car and has got most of its basics right. With a light kerb weight, a willing engine, a manual gearbox and good brakes, it is similar to a  full blown KFC meal and all you need is to add your sauce or gravy. While it is Maruti playing safe, a good revamp should bring the engine close to 125bhp and 190Nm, according to most international tuners we talked to. Plus, unless you overdo it, it will be endlessly reliable and retain its value over time. Get your own wheels and some grippier rubber and you have a fun car for the track or weekend drives.

VIVEK VENUGOPAL

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