The first-generation Suzuki Baleno (Type EG), also marketed as the Suzuki Esteem in North America and Maruti Baleno in India, is an economical compact car offered in three body styles: 3-door hatchback, 4-door sedan, and 5-door wagon/estate. Designed to offer an unbeatable price/equipment ratio, it stands out with exceptionally robust Japanese gasoline engines (G and J series). A facelift occurred in 1999 (new grille, rounder headlights, interior improvements). While the mechanics are almost indestructible, the model suffers from very basic finish quality and, above all, extreme vulnerability to corrosion (especially the engine cradle), which has decimated the majority of units in Europe and North America. Expert's overall rating: An excellent budget "workhorse," provided you find a rust-f
The Suzuki Baleno I (EG) is the perfect example of a 90s Japanese car: mechanically indestructible but biodegradable. The gasoline engines are capable of exceeding 300,000 km with minimal maintenance. However, the fragility of the manual gearbox and, above all, structural corrosion (front subframe) make purchasing risky today. This is a vehicle to NEGOTIATE at a very low price, and only after a rigorous inspection of the underbody on a lift. If it's sound, it's a fantastic utility "daily driver," especially in the 1.6 wagon version.