Suzuki Baleno vs KIA Carens
A proper head-to-head in South Africa — compare price, performance, fuel economy or electric range, safety and the details that shape long-term ownership.
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Suzuki Baleno
1.5 GLX AT
Petrol
4-Speed Automatic
Current
ZAR 341,900
ex-showroom
⚡ 77 kW
🔧 138 Nm
⛽ 16.1 km/l
VS
KIA Carens
1.5D SX Auto
Diesel
6-Speed Automatic
Current
ZAR 599,995
ex-showroom
⚡ 85 kW
🔧 250 Nm
⛽ 18.9 km/l
＋
Add a 3rd car
Decision summary
Suzuki Baleno vs KIA Carens: the short answer
Baleno and Carens are close on the comparable published fields, so buyer priorities should decide.
Baleno starts ZAR 130,095 cheaper
Baleno from ZAR 269,900 · Carens from ZAR 399,995
Five key differences
Exact selected derivativesSwipe sideways to compare every column
| Specification | Baleno | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Power | Baleno77 kW | Carens85 kW @ 4000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | Baleno138 Nm | Carens250 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm |
| Engine Size | Baleno1462 cc | Carens1493 cc |
| Combined Fuel Economy | Baleno16.1 km/l | Carens18.9 km/l |
| Ground Clearance | Baleno0 mm | Carens180 mm |
Strongest published figure in that row; no road-test winner is implied.
Independent editorial assessment
Hagalu editorial ratings
When a variant is selected, its rating out of five applies only to that exact derivative; a model-range review is not inherited. Editorial ratings are separate from the Specification Evidence Index out of 100 and are not customer ratings.
KIA Carens
1.5D SX Auto
Hagalu editorial rating
4.4/5
★★★★★★★★★★
Desk research · Exact variant
Hagalu Editorial Team ·
Editorial assessment, not a customer rating. Not road-tested for this review.
Read the review and score breakdown →Not yet rated means a complete review is not published; it does not mean the vehicle scored zero. Read the rating methodology.
What Each Car Gets Right (and Wrong)
Baleno
Strengths
- Nothing stands out clearly here.
Weak Spots
- Less powerful engine setup
- Lower fuel efficiency
- Fewer listed safety features
- Lower published practicality figures
Best suited to:
General Use
Specification evidence leader
Carens
Strengths
- More powerful engine output
- Better fuel efficiency
- Stronger listed safety equipment
- Stronger published practicality figures
Weak Spots
- No obvious weak spots to flag.
Best suited to:
Published Performance
Published Efficiency
Published Practicality
Which One's Right for You?
Baleno
- Buyers who prefer this derivative's confirmed specification mix
Carens
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published powertrain figures
- Buyers prioritising the lower published fuel or energy use
- Buyers prioritising the more complete listed safety equipment
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published space and capacity figures
Full Specs, Side by Side
Open a category, then swipe sideways to compare every column
| Spec | Baleno | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Model Introduced Year | 2026 | 2026 |
| Generation | Current market generation | Fourth-generation Kia Carens (KY) facelift; South African launch May 2026 |
| Facelift History | Current market specification | Current facelift launched in South Africa in May 2026 |
| Facelift Launched Since | 2026 | 2026 |
| Facelift Version Ending | Current | Current |
| Body Style | Hatchback | MPV |
| Model Year | 2026 | 2026 |
| Production Status | active | active |
| Segment | Hatchback | MPV |
| Vehicle Type | Hatchback | MPV |
| Dealer Stock Note | - | Flagship grade in the South Africa lineup |
| Color Note | - | Clear White, Aurora Black Pearl, Gravity Blue, Pewter Olive, Snow White Pearl |
| Tare Mass Kg | - | 1745 kg |
| Spec | Baleno | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 3990 mm | 4550 mm |
| Width | 1745 mm | 1800 mm |
| Height | 1500 mm | 1734 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2520 mm | 2780 mm |
| Ground Clearance (Default) | 0 mm | 180 mm |
| Ground Clearance (With Full Seating Load) | 150 mm | 175 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 l | 45 l |
| Boot/Cargo Space | 318 l | 216 l |
| Kerb Weight | 940 kg | 1488 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 1700 kg | 2050 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 760 kg | 562 kg |
| Towing Capacity | 500 kg | 750 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Rows | 2 rows | 3 rows |
| Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Minimum Turning Radius | 5.2 m | 5.4 m |
| Front Headroom | 1000 mm | 1062 mm |
| Rear Headroom | 950 mm | 1045 mm |
| Front Legroom | 1050 mm | 1031 mm |
| Rear Legroom | 900 mm | 928 mm |
| Spec | Baleno | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5-litre Naturally Aspirated Petrol | 1.5-litre Turbocharged Diesel |
| Engine Code | K15B/K15C | D4FA |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Diesel |
| Hybrid System | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Engine Displacement | 1462 cc | 1493 cc |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Cylinder Layout | Inline | Inline |
| Valves | 16 | 16 |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 | 4 |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | Turbocharged |
| Fuel System | Multi-point fuel injection | Common Rail Direct Injection |
| Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 16.0:1 |
| Bore | 73.0 mm | 75 mm |
| Stroke | 85.0 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Maximum Power | 77 kW | 85 kW @ 4000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 138 Nm | 250 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm |
| Combined Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Combined Torque | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Motor Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Number of Motors | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Motor Location | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Drive Type | Not Officially Disclosed | FWD |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Top Speed | 170 km/h | 170 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | 9.5 sec | 13.1 sec |
| Quarter Mile | 16.5 sec | 18.4 sec |
| Drive Modes | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| Launch Control | No | No |
| Rev Limiter | 6500 rpm | 4500 rpm |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 81.9 kW/tonne | 57.1 kW/tonne |
| Torque-to-Weight Ratio | 146.8 Nm/tonne | 168.0 Nm/tonne |
| Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Usable Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Battery Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Battery Voltage | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Electric Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Time | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Time | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Regenerative Braking | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Spec | Baleno | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Gearbox | 4-speed automatic | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain Layout | 2WD | FWD |
| LSD Available | No | No |
| Transfer Case | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Differential Lock | No | No |
| Paddle Shifters | No | Yes |
| Final Drive Ratio | 4.3 | 3.63 |
| Number of Gears | 4 | 6 |
| Transmission Type | 4-speed automatic | Automatic Transmission |
| Clutch Type | Torque converter / CVT | Dry Dual Clutch |
| Gear Shift Indicator | Yes | No |
| Gear Shift Type | Floor-mounted selector | Automatic |
| Drivetrain | 2WD | FWD |
| 4WD Engagement | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Hi Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Lo Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Selector | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Automatic Shift Paddles | No | Yes |
| Front Differential Lock | No | Not Applicable |
| Gearbox Type | 4-speed automatic | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Low Range Ratio | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Low Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Axle Layout | Front driven axle | FWD |
| Rear Differential Lock | No | Not Applicable |
| Transmission Speeds | 4 | 6 |
| Engine Position | - | Front Transverse |
| Steering Turns Lock to Lock | - | 15.1:1 |
| Transfer Case Guard | - | Not Available |
| Differential Type Front | - | Not Available |
| Differential Type Rear | - | Not Available |
| Spec | Baleno | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Claimed Mileage | 16.1 km/l | 18.9 km/l |
| City Mileage | 16.0 km/l | 15.3 km/l |
| Highway Mileage | 19.0 km/l | 22.1 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 l | 45 l |
| Emission Standard | Euro 6 equivalent | Euro 6 |
| AdBlue Tank Capacity | Not Applicable | No |
| Auto Start Stop | Yes | Yes |
| Real-world Mileage | 16.1 km/l | 18.9 km/l |
| Charging Port Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Charging Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Fuel Tank Litres | 37 | 45 |
| Combined Driving Range | 700 | Not Applicable |
| Electric Consumption | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Highway | 650 km | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Mixed | 600 km | Not Applicable |
| Low Fuel Warning | - | Yes |
| Spec | Baleno | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 6 | 6 |
| ABS | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Electronic Stability Control | Yes | Yes |
| Traction Control | Yes | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | No | Not Available |
| Hill Start Assist | Yes | Yes |
| Child Safety Lock | Yes | Yes |
| ISOFIX Mounts | Yes | Yes |
| Brake Assist | Yes | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Monitor | Yes | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Seatbelt Warning All Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Front Parking Sensors | Yes | Yes |
| AEB | Yes | Yes |
| BA | Yes | Yes |
| Brake Override System | Yes | Yes |
| Curtain Airbags | Yes | Yes |
| Driver Airbag | Yes | Yes |
| EBD | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Yes | Yes |
| Hill Hold | Yes | Yes |
| Passenger Airbag | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Yes | Yes |
| Seatbelt Pretensioners | Yes | Yes |
| Seatbelt Reminder | Yes | Yes |
| Side Airbags | Yes | Yes |
| Stability Control | Yes | Yes |
| TCS | Yes | Yes |
| Knee Airbag | No | No |
| ABS EBD | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Side Impact Beams | - | Yes |
| Whiplash Protection | - | Yes |
| Pedestrian Detection AEB | - | Yes |
| Lane Change Warning | - | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | - | Yes |
| Fatigue Detection | - | Yes |
| Speed Alert System | - | Yes |
| Safety Rating | - | 5 |
| Central Locking | - | Yes |
| Alarm System | - | Yes |
| ESC With Traction Control | - | Yes |
| Anti Theft Alarm | - | Yes |
| Driver Front Passenger Airbags | - | 6 |
| Driver Passenger Airbags | - | 6 |
| Spec | Baleno | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Control | Adaptive cruise control | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Yes | Yes |
| Lane Keep Assist | Yes | Yes |
| Lane Departure Warning | Yes | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Yes | Yes |
| Parking Sensors | Front and rear | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | Yes | Yes |
| 360 Degree Camera | Yes | Yes |
| Autonomous Emergency Braking | Yes | Yes |
| Driver Fatigue Alert | Yes | Yes |
| Traffic Sign Recognition | Yes | No |
| Auto Highbeam | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Auto Wipers | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Yes | Yes |
| Reverse Camera | Yes | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Yes | Yes |
| Park Assist | Yes | Yes |
| Around View Monitor | Yes | Yes |
| Blind Spot Warning | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Forward Collision Warning | Yes | Yes |
| EV Mode | - | No |
| Reversing Camera | - | Yes |
| Auto Lights | - | Yes |
| Eco Mode | - | Yes |
| Sport Mode | - | Yes |
| Emergency Braking | - | Yes |
| Pre-Collision System | - | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | - | Yes |
| Reverse Camera Type | - | Yes |
| Surround View Camera | Yes | Yes |
| Parking Distance Sensors | - | Yes |
| Parking Sensor | - | Yes |
| Front Camera | - | Yes |
| Automatic High Beam | - | Yes |
| Rain Sensor Wipers | - | Yes |
| Spec | Baleno | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Material | Fabric upholstery | Leather |
| Heated Seats | No | Yes |
| Ventilated Seats | No | Yes |
| Ambient Lighting | No | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Material | Leather | Leather |
| 60 40 Split Seat | Yes | Yes |
| Driver Seat Adjustment | Manual adjustment | 8-Way Power |
| Passenger Seat Adjustment | Manual adjustment | 4-Way Manual |
| Seat Trim | Fabric upholstery | Leather |
| Steering Type | - | Yes |
| Steering Adjustment | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Rear USB Ports | - | Yes |
| Instrument Cluster Type | - | Digital |
| Rear AC Vents | - | Yes |
| Cooled Seats | - | Yes |
| Fabric Seats | - | No |
| Leather Seats | - | Yes |
| Adjustable Driver Seat | - | 8-Way Power |
| Seat Adjustment | - | 8-Way Power |
| Adjustable Front Seat | - | 4-Way Manual |
| Driver Lumbar Support | - | Yes |
| Memory Seats | - | Yes |
| Folding Rear Seats | - | Yes |
| Front Headrest | - | Adjustable |
| Rear Headrest | - | Adjustable |
| Front Armrest | - | Centre Armrest |
| Rear Armrest | - | Yes |
| Door Map Pockets | - | Yes |
| Cup Holders | - | 4 |
| Interior Colour Options | - | Black |
| Interior Courtesy Lamps | - | 7-seat layout with sliding second row (EX+), 10.25-inch touchscreen (EX+), panoramic sunroof (SX), ventilated front seats (SX), digital cluster (SX), full ADAS suite (SX), 6 airbags |
| Boot Space Seats Down | - | 1660 |
| Seat Belt Warning | - | Yes |
| Leather Accented Seat Trim | - | Leather |
| Driver Seat | - | 8-Way Power |
| Seat Fold Type | - | Yes |
| Armrest Front | - | Centre Armrest |
| Armrest Rear | - | Yes |
| Rear Seat Centre Armrest | - | Yes |
| Interior Colours | - | Black |
| Interior Trim Colour | - | Black |
| Seat Adjustment Driver Backrest | - | Yes |
| Front Shoulder Room | - | 1421 mm |
| Rear Shoulder Room | - | 1441 mm |
| Spec | Baleno | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Climate Control | Automatic climate control | Yes |
| Power Windows | Yes | Yes |
| Keyless Entry | Yes | Yes |
| Push Button Start | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Sunroof | No | No |
| Electric Tailgate | No | No |
| Rain Sensing Wipers | Not Applicable | Yes |
| AC Type | Automatic climate control | Yes |
| Intercooler | - | Yes |
| Rev Matching | - | No |
| Performance Data Logger | - | No |
| Engine Start Stop | Yes | Yes |
| Engine Start Stop Button | Yes | Yes |
| Engine Start Button Illumination | - | Yes |
| Engine Check Warning | - | Yes |
| Drag Coefficient | - | 0.34 |
| Roof Load | - | 50 kg |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | - | 1660 l |
| Stabilizer Bar | - | Yes |
| Steering Response | - | Normal |
| Skid Plates | - | No |
| Side Steps | - | No |
| Spare Wheel | Space-saver spare wheel | Temporary Spare |
| Tyre Repair Kit | - | No |
| Seatbelt Pre Tensioner | - | Yes |
| Hill Start Assist | - | Yes |
| Speed Limiter | - | Yes |
| Speed Alert System | - | Yes |
| Impact Sensing Door Unlock | - | Yes |
| Surround View Monitor | Yes | Yes |
| Adaptive Dampers | - | No |
| Voice Command | - | Yes |
| Voice Command Support | - | Yes |
| Digital Speedometer | - | Yes |
| Driver Display | - | Digital Cluster |
| Heads Up Display | - | Yes |
| Tachometer | - | Yes |
| Trip Computer | - | Yes |
| Multi Function Steering | - | Yes |
| Steering Mounted Controls | - | Yes |
| Air Conditioning | Automatic climate control | Yes |
| Climate Zones | - | 2 |
| Rear Air Conditioning | - | Yes |
| Glovebox Cooling | - | No |
| Seat Type | - | Leather Seats |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | - | Yes |
| Rear Seat Split | - | Yes |
| Headrest Adjustable | - | Yes |
| Front Armrest | - | Yes |
| Vanity Mirror | - | Yes |
| 12V Accessory Socket | - | Yes |
| Front Power Outlet | - | Yes |
| Rear Reading Lamps | - | Yes |
| Push Button Start | Yes | Yes |
| Remote Engine Start | - | No |
| Remote Start | - | No |
| Remote Central Locking | - | Yes |
| Door Ajar Warning | - | Yes |
| Fuel Lid Opener | - | Remote |
| Boot Opener | - | Remote |
| Power Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Heated Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Electric Folding Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Electric Mirror Folding | - | Yes |
| Remote Side Mirror | - | Yes |
| Auto Dimming Irvm | - | No |
| Auto Dimming Mirror | - | No |
| Rear Window Defroster | - | Yes |
| Rear Defogger | - | Yes |
| Follow Me Home Headlamps | - | Yes |
| Tail Lamps | - | Yes |
| Automatic Headlamps | - | Yes |
| Headlamp Height Adjust | - | Yes |
| Headlamp Washer | - | No |
| Panoramic Roof | No | No |
| Roof Antenna | - | Yes |
| Rear Wing | - | Yes |
| Aero Kit | - | No |
| Chrome Grille | - | Yes |
| Chrome Exterior Highlights | - | No |
| Ride Mode Selection | - | Yes |
| Powered Tailgate | - | No |
| Service Reminder | - | Yes |
| Trim Level | - | flagship |
| Variant Role | - | Flagship / premium derivative |
| Accelerator 0 100 | - | 11.5 sec |
| Common Rail Injection | - | Common Rail Direct Injection |
| Diff Lock | - | No |
| Difflock | - | No |
| Vdc | - | Yes |
| TPMS | Yes | Yes |
| Sonar | - | Yes |
| Automatic High Beam | - | Yes |
| Steering Column Adjustment | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Tilt Steering | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Telescopic Steering | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Bottle Holders | - | 4 |
| Glove Box | - | Yes |
| Manual Aircon | - | Yes |
| Intelligent Keyless Entry | - | Yes |
| Passive Entry Start | - | Yes |
| Wireless Charger | Yes | Yes |
| Lift Gate | - | No |
| Electric Fold Indicator Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Power Socket 12v | - | Yes |
| Sound System | 6 | 8 |
| Roof Rack Compatibility | - | Yes |
| Mirror | - | Electric |
| Stabilizer Bar Front | - | Yes |
| Stabilizer Bar Rear | - | Yes |
| Sub Frame | - | Unibody |
| Vehicle To Grid | - | Not Available |
| Vehicle To Load | - | Not Available |
| One Pedal Driving | - | Not Available |
| Regenerative Braking Levels | - | Not Available |
| Rear Electric Motor | - | Not Available |
| Battery Preconditioning | - | Not Available |
| Load Bed Cover | - | Not Available |
| Tailgate Lock | - | Not Available |
| Sports Bar | - | Not Available |
| Canopy Fitment | - | Not Available |
| Bed Extender | - | Not Available |
| Source Model Column | - | carens |
| Intelligent Battery System | - | Not Available |
| Front Diff Lock | - | Not Available |
| Rear Diff Lock | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Depth Mm | - | Not Available |
| Load Bed Light | - | Not Available |
| Load Bed Steps | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Rope Hooks | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Tiedown Brackets | - | Not Available |
| Tailgate Damper | - | Not Available |
| Tow Bar Type | - | Not Available |
| Sport Plus Mode | - | Not Available |
| Unlocking | Yes | Yes |
| Walk Away Lock | - | Yes |
| Walk Away Auto Door Lock | - | Yes |
| Rear LED Combination Taillights | - | Yes |
| Front Wiper | - | Yes |
| Front Wipers Type | - | Yes |
| Rearview Mirror Inside | - | No |
| Vanity Mirror Illuminated | - | Yes |
| Reading Lights Rear | - | Yes |
| Centre Console | - | Centre Armrest |
| Side Impact Bars | - | Yes |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | - | 1660 l |
| Load Bed Length | - | Not Applicable |
| Load Bed Width | - | Not Applicable |
| Loadbox Length Mm | - | Not Applicable |
| Loadbox Width Mm | - | Not Applicable |
| Fuel Consumption Combined | - | 5.3 |
| Engine Warranty | - | 5 Years / Unlimited km |
| Rim Size | 16 | 215/55 R17 |
| Spec | Baleno | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | Touchscreen infotainment system | 12.3-inch Touchscreen |
| Apple CarPlay | Apple CarPlay | Yes |
| Android Auto | Android Auto | Yes |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| Number of Speakers | 6 | 8 |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | Digital instrument display | Yes |
| USB Ports | USB-A / USB-C | 4 |
| Infotainment Screen | 9 | 12.3 |
| Touchscreen | 9 | 12.3 |
| Infotainment Display | - | 12.3 |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 9 | 12.3 |
| Navigation System | - | Yes |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | Apple CarPlay | Yes |
| Rear Usb | - | Yes |
| AUX Input | - | No |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | - | No |
| Premium Audio | - | Yes |
| FM Radio | - | Yes |
| Radio | - | Yes |
| Voice Recognition | - | Yes |
| Head Up Display | - | Yes |
| Audio Controls On Steering | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Yes |
| Multi Information Display | - | Digital |
| Display Audio | - | 12.3-inch Touchscreen |
| Smartphone Connectivity | - | Yes |
| Connected Services | - | Yes |
| Audio Speakers | 6 | 8 |
| Front Rear USB Charge Ports | - | 4 |
| Voice Control | - | Yes |
| Audio | - | Yes |
| Audio System | - | Yes |
| Wireless Android Auto | Android Auto | Yes |
| Spec | Baleno | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| LED Headlamps | Yes | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lamps | LED | Yes |
| Fog Lamps | Yes | Yes |
| Roof Rails | No | Yes |
| Exterior Colour Options | Multiple Suzuki factory exterior colours | Multiple |
| Headlights | Yes | Yes |
| Panoramic Sunroof | No | No |
| Body Type | - | MPV |
| Wing Mirror Type | - | Electric |
| Rear Wiper | - | Yes |
| Led Headlights | Yes | Yes |
| DRL | LED | Yes |
| Led Taillights | - | Yes |
| Fog Lights | - | Yes |
| Front Fog Lights | - | Yes |
| Rear Fog Lights | - | Yes |
| Roof Type | - | Standard |
| Rear Spoiler | - | Yes |
| Body Cladding | - | No |
| Chrome Exterior Finish | - | No |
| Door Handle Finish | - | Body Colour |
| Exterior Colour Options | - | 5 |
| Exterior Mirror Electric | - | Yes |
| Auto Headlights | - | Yes |
| Automatic Headlamps | - | Yes |
| Headlamps | Yes | Yes |
| Headlight Type | Yes | Yes |
| Exterior Mirror Folding | - | Yes |
| Headlamp Levelling | - | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lights | LED | Yes |
| Front Fog Lamps | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Spoiler | - | Yes |
| Exterior Door Handle Colour | - | Body Colour |
| Load Bed Liner | - | Not Available |
| Active Exhaust | - | Not Available |
| Electric Blind Sunroof | - | Standard |
| Front Overhang | - | 830 mm |
| Rear Overhang | - | 940 mm |
| Alloy Wheel Design | - | Alloy |
| Spec | Baleno | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Approach Angle | Not Applicable | 16 deg |
| Departure Angle | Not Applicable | 18 deg |
| Wading Depth | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Terrain Modes | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Locking Differential | No | No |
| 4WD System Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Breakover Angle | Not Applicable | 16 deg |
| Ramp Breakover Angle | - | 16 deg |
| Ramp-over Angle | - | 14 deg |
| Recovery Hooks | - | No |
| Underbody Protection | - | No |
| Hill Descent Control | No | Not Available |
| Ground Clearance Min | - | 185 mm |
| Ground Clearance Max | - | 185 mm |
| Off Road Descent Control | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Response System | - | Not Available |
| Crawl Control | - | Not Available |
| Underbody Camera | - | Not Available |
| Energy Recovery Display | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Mud | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Normal | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Rock | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Sand | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Snow | - | Not Available |
| Off Road Traction Assist | - | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Transfer Case | - | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Fuel Tank | - | Not Available |
| Front Skid Plate Guard | - | Not Available |
| Rear Skid Plate Guard | - | Not Available |
| Approach Angle Deg | - | 16 deg |
| Departure Angle Deg | - | 18 deg |
| Spec | Baleno | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre Size | 195/60 R16 | 215/55 R17 |
| Front Brake Type | Ventilated disc | Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Disc | Disc |
| Spare Wheel Type | Space-saver spare wheel | Temporary Spare |
| Wheel Rim Size | 16 | 215/55 R17 |
| Handbrake Type | Manual parking brake | Electronic |
| Front Brake Disc Diameter | - | 300 mm |
| Brake Type Rear | - | Disc |
| Rear Brake Drum Diameter | - | 262 mm |
| Parking Brake Type | - | Electronic |
| Front Tyre Width | - | 235 mm |
| Rear Tyre Width | - | 235 mm |
| Wheel Type | - | Alloy |
| Tyre Type | - | Radial |
| Tyre Load Index | - | 107 |
| Tyre Speed Rating | - | H |
| Spare Tyre | Space-saver spare wheel | Temporary Spare |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | Yes | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Display | - | Yes |
| Hydraulic Brake Assist | - | Yes |
| Autonomous Emergency Brake | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Yes |
| Spare Wheel Size Type | - | Temporary Spare |
| Electric Park Brake | - | Electronic |
| Fifth Wheel Prep | - | Not Available |
| Steering Wheel Cruise Controls | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Phone Controls | - | Yes |
| Leather Steering Wheel | - | Leather |
| Steering Wheel Trim | - | Leather |
| Brakes | - | Ventilated Disc |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | - | Yes |
| Cornering Brake Control | - | Yes |
| Auto Brake Hold | - | Electronic |
| Brake Type Front | - | Disc |
| Wheel Diameter | 16 | 215/55 R17 |
| Wheel Material | - | Alloy |
| Wheels | - | Alloy |
| Wheel Size Type | - | 215/55 R17 |
| Spec | Baleno | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Front Suspension | MacPherson strut | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension | Torsion beam | Coupled Torsion Beam |
| Chassis Type | - | Unibody |
| Front Spring Type | - | Coil Spring |
| Rear Spring Type | - | Coil Spring |
| Shock Absorber Type | - | Telescopic |
| Front Anti-Roll Bar | - | Yes |
| Rear Anti-Roll Bar | - | Yes |
| Power Steering | - | Yes |
| Steering Column | - | Adjustable |
| Front Suspension Type | MacPherson strut | MacPherson Strut |
| Suspension | - | MacPherson Strut |
| Shock Absorbers | - | Telescopic |
| Chassis Material | - | Unibody |
| MagneRide Damping | - | Not Available |
| Front Track Width | - | 1563 mm |
| Rear Track Width | - | 1587 mm |
| Rear Suspension Type | Torsion beam | Coupled Torsion Beam |
| Rear Axle Type | - | Coupled Torsion Beam |
| Spec | Baleno | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| CO2 Emissions | 145 g/km | 139 g/km |
| Fuel Octane Requirement | - | B7 Diesel |
| Variable Valve Timing | - | No |
| Particulate Filter | - | DPF |
| Fuel Evaporation Control | - | No |
| Green NCAP Rating | - | 4 |
| Start Stop System | - | Yes |
| Euro Emission Standard | - | Euro 6 |
| Noise Level | - | 67 dB |
| Hybrid System Type | - | Not Available |
| Idle CO2 Output | - | 139 |
| CO2 Emissions G Km | - | 139 |
| Spec | Baleno | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Service Plan | 5 Years / 90000 km | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Alternator | - | Yes |
| Engine Oil Capacity | - | 4.5 l |
| Engine Oil Change Interval | - | 15000 |
| Service Plan Duration | 5 Years / 90000 km | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Service Plan Distance | 5 Years / 90000 km | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Maintenance Plan | - | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Service Interval | - | 15000 |
| First Service At | - | 15000 |
| Approx Service Cost | - | R3,800 per service |
| Anti-Rust Treatment | - | Yes |
| Service Intervals | - | 15000 |
| Spec | Baleno | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Role | Suzuki ownership programme | Flagship |
| Price Zar | 312500 ZAR | 599995 ZAR |
| Pricing Role | Hagalu Research Team price estimate | Current official retail price |
| Starting Price | 312500 | 599995 |
| Starting Price Zar | 312500 | 599995 |
| Spec | Baleno | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Warranty | 5 Years / 200000 km | 5 Years / Unlimited km |
| Anti-Corrosion Warranty | - | 5 Years |
| Basic Warranty | 5 Years / 200000 km | 5 Years / Unlimited km |
| Warranty Years | 5 Years / 200000 km | 5 Years / Unlimited km |
| Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years / Unlimited km |
| Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years / Unlimited km |
| Warranty Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years / Unlimited km |
| Spec | Baleno | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Real-world City Mileage Min | - | 12.5 l/100km |
| Real-world City Mileage Max | - | 16.2 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Min | - | 19.1 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Max | - | 22.3 l/100km |
In depth: how these cars differ
This Baleno and Carens comparison uses the exact derivatives selected above for South Africa. The catalogue index covers performance, efficiency, safety equipment, practicality and ownership cover only where comparable source-backed fields are present.
Performance index: Baleno 34 vs Carens 39.
Efficiency index: Baleno 62 vs Carens 72.
Safety-equipment index: Baleno 87 vs Carens 93.
Practicality index: Baleno 50 vs Carens 56.
Ownership-cover index: Baleno not separately scored vs Carens 54.
These figures are Hagalu catalogue-comparison indicators, not customer ratings, crash-test scores, resale guarantees or a substitute for a road test. Each page shows its weighted source coverage beside the result.
Model imagery
Baleno and Carens image comparison
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Suzuki Baleno
View 8 more Baleno images
KIA Carens
View 8 more Carens images
Specification Evidence Index
A transparent comparison of published catalogue fields. This is not a road-test score, owner rating or editorial review rating, and it appears only when every vehicle clears the same comparable-data threshold.
Evidence-index readout
Carens leads by 5 points
Baleno and Carens are close on the comparable published fields, so buyer priorities should decide.
Evidence leader
62
/100
Lead
5
points
Data
96%
source coverage
62
#1
Evidence leader
Carens
96% source coverage
2 strong categories
Best at
Safety 93
Check
Performance 39
Performance
39
Efficiency
72
Safety
93
Practicality
56
Ownership
54
Leads by 5 points
57
#2
Baleno
74% source coverage
1 strong categories
Best at
Safety 87
Check
Performance 34
Performance
34
Efficiency
62
Safety
87
Practicality
50
Performance 24%
Safety 22%
Practicality 22%
Efficiency 17%
Ownership 15%
Category leaders
What moves the verdict
Performance
Carens +5
Efficiency
Carens +10
Safety
Carens +6
Practicality
Carens +6
Close catalogue match. Buyer priorities should decide the outcome.
Why this score View full breakdown
Evidence-index leader
Carens
Performance
39/100
Efficiency
72/100
Safety
93/100
Practicality
56/100
Ownership
54/100
Baleno
Performance
34/100
Efficiency
62/100
Safety
87/100
Practicality
50/100
What the evidence means
Evidence index
KIA Carens
leads the specification evidence index with 62 pts
vs 57 pts for Baleno
In Hagalu's specification evidence index, Carens leads. However, Baleno may suit buyers prioritising different confirmed fields. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your driving priorities in South Africa.
Related comparisons
Continue with closely related South Africa models and comparable body styles.
Baleno vs Carens questions
There is no universal winner. Use the comparison table to match the models and available derivatives in South Africa on price, safety equipment, space, powertrain and ownership cover. The category indicators summarise published catalogue data; they are not a road test or customer rating.
Compare the published consumption or mileage rows for the exact derivatives using the same unit and test basis. A catalogue figure is useful for like-for-like comparison, but traffic, speed, load, weather and driving style can change actual fuel use.
Compare only equipment explicitly listed for each derivative, including airbags, stability control and driver-assistance systems. Confirm the exact trim with the manufacturer, and treat any independent crash-test result separately because equipment and ratings can differ by market.
A reliable five-year total cannot be calculated from catalogue data alone. Add the exact purchase and finance cost, fuel or electricity, insurance quotes, scheduled servicing, tyres and expected resale value. Check whether the selected derivative includes a service or maintenance plan.
Use the seating, boot or load-space, ISOFIX and safety rows as a first check. Then test the exact cars with your child seats, passengers and typical luggage, because published dimensions do not show every access or comfort difference.
Compare the published power, torque and 0–100 km/h rows when they are available for both exact derivatives. Vehicle weight, gearing and power delivery also matter, so catalogue outputs alone do not establish real-world overtaking or response.