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Frankfurt – Suzuki unveiled its new Boleno hatchback at the 2015 Frankfurt auto show.
The new Boleno is currently “under consideration” for launch in South Africa.
The hatchback rides on a new platform and can be equipped with a choice of two new petrol engines as well as the automaker’s energy re-cooperation system called SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki).
'Liquid flow'
It measures 3.9m long, 1.7m wide and 1.4m tall (1.46m with SHVS) with a wheelbase of 2.5m. Ground clearance is rated at 120mm (110mm with SHVS).
According to Suzuki: “The “Liquid Flow” design theme—suggestive of an energetic mass of liquid in motion—permeates throughout, articulated by curving lines and expressive surfaces. Meanwhile, a low and wide silhouette helps underline a strong and sporty look.”
Power
Powering the new hatchback are two new turbo engines - 1.0 Boosterjet and 1.2 DualJet
The 1.0 litre is capable of 82kW/170Nm mated to either a five-speed manual or six-speed auto. The 1.2 DualJet can be paired with either the same five-speed manual as the 1.0 unit or a continuously variable transmission.
New platform
A new Suzuki platform was for the Baleno.
According to the automaker: “Compared to the platform currently used in the same vehicle class, body rigidity has been enhanced by approximately 10% and, due to the use of a continuous skeletal structure that creates a smooth form, total vehicle weight has been reduced by approximately 15%.
New hybrid system - SHVS
The SHVS is a mild hybrid system by Suzuki that uses an ISG (Integrated Starter Generator) to assist the engine during acceleration and also generates electricity through regenerative braking. In the Baleno, the system aims to lessen the car's footprint on the environment with emissions of 93g/km.
Interior
Inside, silver accents stand out against its black cabin trim. The hatchback is fitted with a large, high-definition colour LCD, displaying driving G-force, engine output/torque, accelerator/brake operation, and energy flow (for vehicles with SHVS).
Its smartphone Linkage Audio Display uses a 7” touchscreen and can be connected to an iPhone via a USB cable for using Apple CarPlay’s various functions, such as satnav, messages, music, as well as podcasts, audiobooks, and third-party Apple CarPlay compatible audio apps.
It can also be connected to smartphones using mirrorLink.
The Baleno is fitted with adaptive cruise control; the system uses radar to monitor following distance and automatically accelerates/decelerate to maintain a long, medium, or short distance to a vehicle ahead.
Safety
The Baleno boasts 355 litre luggage space.
In terms of safety it has six air bags, electronic stability control, anti-lock braking system and new Radar Brake Support (RBS).
If the system detects a potential collision, depending on the situation, the RBS will alert the driver, increases braking force and/or automatically applies the brakes.
