ROAD TEST
Suzuki Baleno — for the sheer love of driving
In spite of some issues and its price tag, the Suzuki Baleno exceeded Mark Smyth’s expectations
Many years ago, before becoming a motoring journo, I attended a training course on customer service. The main message was always to exceed a customer’s expectations. I remember it to this day. Sadly, the mantra is not as common as it should be. And the Baleno does stand out. The styling, provided you stay away from rental car white, is rather good. The front has character, even a bit of attitude about it, enhanced by LED daytime running lights. The side profile is a little bland, but the upward curve to the rear windows gives it a slightly sporty profile. The rear is a bit of a letdown, only one step up from a Chevrolet Cruze hatch when it comes to drabness. Metallic blue improves things dramatically, at least in the pictures. The 1.4 engine also does duty in the Ciaz and the Swift. However the Baleno is lighter and it is surprisingly noticeable, the car being nimble and responsive to your demands. It is no go-faster hatch of course, running out of puff occasionally uphill, but it i...
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