The New Suzuki Baleno

The new Suzuki Baleno hatchback will go on sale in the spring of 2016 with prices starting at around £12,000 - it will sit above the company's smaller Swift model on an all new platform.

It Suzuki's answer to the ever developing mini-crossovers that are appearing from other manufacturers - although it is not billed as such. It is aiming to take sales from the likes of the Ford Fiesta, offering better tech and more boot space.

There will be a choice of three engines a 1.0-litre Boosterjet three cylinder and a 1.2-litre Dualjet with the option of SHVS mild-hybrid technology.

The SHVS mild-hybrid technology is an integrated system that comprises an ISG (Integrated Starter Generator) to assist the engine during acceleration and generate electricity through regenerative braking. It also help smooth re-starts when in automatic stop/start mode.

�As standard the cars feature a five-speed manual transmission with the Boosterjet being optionally available with a six-speed automatic and the Dualjet a CVT transmission.

Depending on spec of the Baleno there will be the option of Radar Brake Support (RBS) which offers autonomous braking, ESP is standard as are six airbags across the range.

There will be the option of tech such as a 7-inch touch panel with support for Apple CarPlay and other apps and including the option of a reversing camera.