A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
3.5
Comfort & Interior
4.2
Running Costs
4.5
Practicality
4.3
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
The Suzuki Baleno is a practical family hatchback that delivers impressive value for money without sacrificing quality or comfort. This spacious five door model offers one of the largest interiors in its class, making it an excellent choice for growing families who need space but don’t want to stretch to SUV running costs. The Baleno stands out from rivals like the Ford Fiesta and Nissan Micra with its generous rear seat space and surprisingly large boot capacity.
Built with Suzuki’s reputation for reliability at its core, the Baleno combines efficient petrol engines with low running costs that make daily driving affordable. The interior feels more premium than the price tag suggests, featuring modern technology and comfortable seating for five adults. While it may not have the sporty appeal of some competitors, the Baleno excels where it matters most for family buyers.
Whether you’re looking for your first family car or need to replace an aging hatchback, the Baleno offers practical benefits that few rivals can match at this price point. Its blend of space, efficiency, and dependability makes it a smart choice for buyers who prioritise substance over style.
What's the Suzuki Baleno Like to Drive?
The Suzuki Baleno prioritizes efficiency over excitement, and that shows in its engine lineup. The main 1.2-liter four-cylinder petrol engine produces around 90 horsepower, which feels adequate for everyday driving. It handles city traffic well and has enough power for safe overtaking on A-roads. The mild hybrid system available on some models adds a small electric boost that improves fuel economy without dramatically changing the driving experience.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
1.2L 4-cylinder petrol
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Power Output
90 bhp
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0-60 mph
11.2 seconds
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MPG Combined
55 mpg
- Boot Space
- 320 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★☆ (Euro NCAP)
How Comfortable Is the Suzuki Baleno?
Step inside the Baleno and you’ll immediately notice how spacious it feels. The interior design is simple and functional rather than cutting edge, but everything is well laid out and easy to use. The materials are basic but feel sturdy enough for daily use. The dashboard features a clear layout with a touchscreen infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, keeping you connected without fuss.
The Suzuki Baleno is a no-frills family hatchback that prioritizes efficiency and practicality over thrills. Its spacious interior and premium-quality cabin make it ideal for growing families, though the 1.2-liter engine feels restrained in spirited driving. The mild hybrid system boosts fuel economy without compromising comfort, offering excellent value despite modest performance.
Is the Suzuki Baleno Expensive to Run?
This is where the Baleno truly shines. The efficient engines deliver excellent fuel economy, with real world figures easily reaching 50 plus MPG in mixed driving. Insurance groups are low, typically falling into groups 6 to 10, which means cheaper premiums for most drivers. Servicing costs are reasonable thanks to Suzuki’s competitive pricing and the engine’s straightforward design.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Suzuki Baleno
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Ford Fiesta
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Hyundai i20
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £18,000 | £19,500 | £19,200 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 1.2L 90hp | 1.1L 85hp | 1.0L 100hp |
| Power | 90 bhp | 85 bhp | 100 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 11.2 seconds | 11.8 seconds | 10.4 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 55 mpg | 52 mpg | 53 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 320 litres | 292 litres | 352 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Spacious interior, Low running costs, Good warranty | Sharp handling, Premium interior, Strong brand | Stylish design, Good equipment, Long warranty |
Suzuki Baleno Practicality & Boot Space
The Baleno excels in everyday practicality. The 320-litre boot is a decent size for the class and easily handles a weekly shopping trip or holiday luggage. The rear seats fold down to create a larger cargo area when you need to transport bulky items. Throughout the cabin, you’ll find useful storage spaces including door pockets, cup holders, and a decent-sized glovebox.
We bought our Baleno three years ago and it’s been fantastic. The space inside is incredible for such a small car and it’s so cheap to run. The kids love the back seats and we’ve never had any reliability issues.
The Suzuki Baleno stands out in the competitive supermini market by prioritizing the fundamentals. It offers exceptional interior space, impressive fuel economy, and strong value for money wrapped in a practical and reliable package. While it may not be the most exciting car to drive or the most luxurious inside, it excels in the areas that matter most to everyday users.