Maruti Suzuki Baleno Boosterjet the potential Fiat Abarth Punto rival, spied

Maruti might have not made anything official, but a more powerful version of the Baleno hatchback looks very close to being put into production. GaadiWaadi has spotted a rear disc brake equipped test mule, and it could very well be the Fiat Abarth Punto rival that MSIL needs in its line-up.

To be powered by a 1-litre turbocharged petrol ‘Boosterjet’ engine, the vehicle has the potential to be a pocket rocket. The engine makes 110 hp and 170 Nm, both of which might be considerably less than the Abarth Punto’s 145 hp and 212 Nm, but it’s the former’s low weight which can make it a worthy alternative. The presence of rear disc brakes ensures that the vehicle’s stopping power is upgraded as well, while it remains to be seen if MSIL has tweaked the suspension.

The company will be showcasing a Baleno RS Concept at the 2016 Auto Expo, but whether or not is that the vehicle we’re talking about remains unknown. Another possibility is that this is the export-bound Boosterjet version. There are two things backing that: one, the vehicle sports only ‘Suzuki’ logo at the rear, and second, it was in a black shade — a colour that’s not available for Baleno in India.

The 2016 Auto Expo is just about a day away, so we aren’t too far from knowing what MSIL has in store for the enthusiast.

Meanwhile, read about what Fiat offers in the form of the Abarth Punto.

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