Suzuki Baleno SY
A lightweight, reliable Japanese alternative to the European hatchback establishment.
- Power
- 98 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 10.6 s
- Top speed
- 109 mph
- Est. value
- $800–$4k
About the Suzuki Baleno SY
Introduced in 1995 as the Suzuki Cultus Crescent in Japan, the Baleno was Suzuki's attempt to move upmarket into the compact family car segment. The 1.6-litre variant featured the G16B engine, known for its durability and decent power-to-weight ratio thanks to the car's sub-1,000kg kerb weight. While it lacked the interior refinement of contemporary rivals like the Volkswagen Golf, it offered a high level of standard equipment and mechanical simplicity. Today, it is remembered as a robust, no-nonsense commuter that provided a platform for Suzuki's successful entry into the World Rally Championship with the Baleno-based kit cars.
Suzuki Baleno SY specs
The Suzuki Baleno SY produces 98 bhp (73 kW) and 127 Nm (94 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 10.6 seconds and has a top speed of 109 mph (175 km/h).
| Make | Suzuki |
|---|---|
| Model | Baleno |
| Generation | SY |
| Trim | 1.6 |
| Years | 1995–2002 |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | Japan |
| Original price | About $13,000 when new |
| Engine | 1.6-litre 16-valve inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,590 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 98 bhp (73 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 127 Nm (94 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 10.6 s |
| Top speed | 109 mph (175 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 920 kg (2,028 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 107 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Suzuki Baleno SY worth?
A typical Suzuki Baleno SY is estimated to be worth $800 – $3,500 (about £597 – £2,600).
Its original price when new was about $13,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Suzuki Baleno SY rarity in CarSpot
The Suzuki Baleno SY is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 0 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Suzuki Baleno SY fun facts
- In Japan and North America, this generation was marketed as the Cultus Crescent and Suzuki Esteem respectively.
- The Baleno was one of the first cars in its class to offer a four-wheel-drive option in certain markets, though the 1.6 hatchback was primarily front-wheel drive.
- Despite its humble appearance, the Baleno served as the basis for Suzuki's rally efforts in the late 1990s before the arrival of the Ignis and Swift.
