Suzuki Baleno vs MG MG3
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
⛽ 17.5 km/l
VS
MG MG3
1.5L Hybrid+
Hybrid
3-Speed Automatic
Current
ZAR 469,900
ex-showroom
⚡ 75 kW
🔧 128 Nm
⛽ 23.26 km/l
＋
Add a 3rd car
Decision summary
Suzuki Baleno vs MG MG3: the short answer
Baleno and MG3 are close on the comparable published fields, so buyer priorities should decide.
Both models start at the same price: ZAR 269,900
Five key differences
Exact selected derivativesSwipe sideways to compare every column
| Specification | Baleno | MG3 |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Power | Baleno77 kW @ 6000 rpm | MG375 kW @ 6000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | Baleno138 Nm @ 4400 rpm | MG3128 Nm @ 4500 rpm |
| Engine Size | Baleno1462 cc | MG31498 cc |
| Combined Fuel Economy | Baleno17.5 km/l | MG323.26 km/l |
| Ground Clearance | Baleno150 mm | MG3149 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.
MG MG3
1.5L Hybrid+
Hagalu editorial rating
Not yet rated
No complete editorial rating is published for this exact variant. This is not a zero score.
How Hagalu rates cars →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
- Stronger published practicality figures
Weak Spots
- Less powerful engine setup
- Lower fuel efficiency
- Fewer listed safety features
Best suited to:
Published Practicality
Specification evidence leader
MG3
Strengths
- More powerful engine output
- Better fuel efficiency
- Stronger listed safety equipment
Weak Spots
- Lower published practicality figures
Best suited to:
Published Performance
Published Efficiency
Which One's Right for You?
Baleno
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published space and capacity figures
MG3
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published powertrain figures
- Buyers prioritising the lower published fuel or energy use
- Buyers prioritising the more complete listed safety equipment
Full Specs, Side by Side
Open a category, then swipe sideways to compare every column
| Spec | Baleno | MG3 |
|---|---|---|
| Model Introduced Year | 2022 | 2025 |
| Generation | Second generation globally launched in 2022; entirely new platform and body compared to the first-generation Baleno; shares K15B engine with Fronx, Ertiga, XL6, and Grand Vitara for parts commonality | Current-generation five-door MG3 offered locally with naturally aspirated petrol and self-charging hybrid powertrains. |
| Facelift History | Second-generation Baleno launched in SA in 2022 as a full redesign on a new platform — wider, longer, and significantly better specified than the first-generation model; no facelift of the second generation yet | South African launch specification introduced in 2025. |
| Facelift Launched Since | 2022 | 2025 |
| Facelift Version Ending | Current | Current |
| Body Style | Hatchback | Five-door hatchback |
| Color Note | Pearl Arctic White, Metallic Grandeur Grey, Metallic Midnight Blue, Pearl Burning Red, Solid White | - |
| Dealer Stock Note | Flagship grade in the South Africa lineup | - |
| Model Year | 2026 | 2026 |
| Production Status | active | active |
| Segment | Hatchback | Compact Hatchback |
| Tare Mass Kg | 975 kg | - |
| Vehicle Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Spec | Baleno | MG3 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 3990 mm | 4113 mm |
| Width | 1745 mm | 1797 mm |
| Height | 1500 mm | 1502 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
| Ground Clearance (Default) | 150 mm | 149 mm |
| Ground Clearance (With Full Seating Load) | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 l | 36 l |
| Boot/Cargo Space | 314 l | 293 l |
| Kerb Weight | 985 kg | 1308 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 1430 kg | 1766 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 445 kg | 458 kg |
| Towing Capacity | Not Officially Disclosed | 500 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Rows | 2 rows | 2 rows |
| Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Minimum Turning Radius | 5.1 m | 5.25 m |
| Front Headroom | 993 mm | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Rear Headroom | 985 mm | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Front Legroom | 1043 mm | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Rear Legroom | 900 mm | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Spec | Baleno | MG3 |
|---|---|---|
| Front Track Width | 1480 mm | - |
| Rear Track Width | 1480 mm | - |
| Front Suspension | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring | MacPherson |
| Rear Suspension | Torsion Beam with Coil Spring | Torsion Beam |
| Chassis Type | Monocoque | - |
| Power Steering | Electric Power Assisted (EPAS) | - |
| Steering Column | Tilt and Telescopic Adjustable | - |
| Front Spring Type | Coil Spring | - |
| Rear Spring Type | Coil Spring | - |
| Front Anti-Roll Bar | Standard | - |
| Rear Anti-Roll Bar | Standard | - |
| Shock Absorber Type | Telescopic Gas Dampers | - |
| Chassis Material | Monocoque | - |
| Front Suspension Type | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring | MacPherson |
| MagneRide Damping | Not Available | - |
| Rear Axle Type | Torsion Beam with Coil Spring | - |
| Rear Suspension Type | Torsion Beam with Coil Spring | Torsion Beam |
| Shock Absorbers | Telescopic Gas Dampers | - |
| Suspension | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring | - |
| Spec | Baleno | MG3 |
|---|---|---|
| Load Bed Length | Not Applicable | - |
| Load Bed Width | Not Applicable | - |
| Climate Control | Manual Air Conditioning | Single-zone air conditioning |
| Power Windows | All Four Windows | Standard |
| Keyless Entry | Not Available | Standard |
| Push Button Start | Not Available | Standard |
| Wireless Charging | Wireless Apple CarPlay | Not Available |
| Sunroof | Not Available | Standard |
| Electric Tailgate | Not Available | Not Available |
| Automatic Headlamps | Standard | - |
| Rain Sensing Wipers | Standard | Standard |
| Auto Dimming Mirror | Not Available | - |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | 744 l | - |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | 744 l | - |
| Rear Window Defroster | Standard | - |
| Electric Mirror Folding | Electrically Adjustable Auto-Fold Mirrors | - |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | Standard — Driver Height Adjustable | - |
| Follow Me Home Headlamps | Not Available | - |
| 12V Accessory Socket | 1 x 12V Socket | - |
| Speed Limiter | Standard | - |
| AC Type | Manual Air Conditioning | Single-zone air conditioning |
| Adaptive Dampers | Not Available | - |
| Auto Dimming Irvm | Not Available | - |
| Climate Zones | Manual Air Conditioning | - |
| Electric Folding Mirrors | All Four Windows | - |
| Engine Start Button Illumination | Not Available | - |
| Engine Start Stop | Not Available | Standard |
| Engine Start Stop Button | Not Available | Standard |
| Engine Warranty | 4 Years | - |
| Front Armrest | Standard Centre Armrest | - |
| Front Power Outlet | 1 x 12V Socket | - |
| Fuel Consumption Combined | 5.7 | - |
| Glovebox Cooling | All Four Door Pockets | - |
| Hill Start Assist | Standard | - |
| Panoramic Roof | Not Available | Standard |
| Performance Data Logger | Not Available | - |
| Power Mirrors | All Four Windows | - |
| Push Button Start | Not Available | Standard |
| Rear Defogger | Standard | - |
| Rear Seat Split | 60:40 Split Fold | - |
| Rear Wing | Not Available | - |
| Rev Matching | Not Available | - |
| Seat Type | Leatherette Seat Covers | - |
| Seatbelt Pre Tensioner | All Seats | - |
| Skid Plates | Not Available | - |
| Spare Wheel | Full Size Spare | Tyre repair kit |
| Speed Alert System | Standard | - |
| Stabilizer Bar | Standard | - |
| Steering Mounted Controls | Standard | - |
| Telescopic Steering | Tilt and Telescopic | - |
| Tilt Steering | Tilt and Telescopic | - |
| Voice Command | Via Smartphone | - |
| Voice Command Support | Via Smartphone Mirroring | - |
| Accelerator 0 100 | 11.5 sec | - |
| Air Conditioning | Manual Air Conditioning | Single-zone air conditioning |
| Battery Preconditioning | Not Available | - |
| Bed Extender | Not Available | - |
| Bottle Holders | 4 | - |
| Canopy Fitment | Not Available | - |
| Centre Console | Standard Centre Armrest | - |
| Common Rail Injection | Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI) | - |
| Diff Lock | Not Available | - |
| Difflock | Not Available | - |
| Digital Speedometer | Analogue with Digital Trip Display | - |
| Electric Fold Indicator Mirrors | Electrically Adjustable Auto-Fold Mirrors | - |
| Front Diff Lock | Not Available | - |
| Front Wiper | Standard | - |
| Front Wipers Type | Standard | - |
| Glove Box | All Four Door Pockets | - |
| Intelligent Battery System | Not Available | - |
| Intelligent Keyless Entry | Not Available | - |
| Lift Gate | Not Available | - |
| Load Bed Cover | Not Available | - |
| Load Bed Light | Not Available | - |
| Load Bed Steps | Not Available | - |
| Loadbox Depth Mm | Not Available | - |
| Loadbox Length Mm | Not Applicable | - |
| Loadbox Rope Hooks | Not Available | - |
| Loadbox Tiedown Brackets | Not Available | - |
| Loadbox Width Mm | Not Applicable | - |
| Manual Aircon | Manual Air Conditioning | - |
| Mirror | Electrically Adjustable Body-Coloured Mirrors | - |
| One Pedal Driving | Not Available | - |
| Passive Entry Start | Not Available | - |
| Power Socket 12v | 1 x 12V Socket | - |
| Powered Tailgate | Not Available | - |
| Rear Air Conditioning | Not Available | - |
| Rear Diff Lock | Not Available | - |
| Rear Electric Motor | Not Available | - |
| Rearview Mirror Inside | Not Available | - |
| Regenerative Braking Levels | Not Available | - |
| Remote Central Locking | Remote Central Locking | - |
| Remote Side Mirror | Electrically Adjustable Body-Coloured Mirrors | - |
| Rim Size | 15 Inches | 16-inch |
| Roof Rack Compatibility | Not Available | - |
| Side Impact Bars | Standard | - |
| Sonar | Rear | - |
| Sound System | 6 | 6 |
| Source Model Column | baleno | - |
| Sport Plus Mode | Not Available | - |
| Sports Bar | Not Available | - |
| Stabilizer Bar Front | Standard | - |
| Stabilizer Bar Rear | Standard | - |
| Steering Column Adjustment | Tilt and Telescopic | - |
| Sub Frame | Monocoque | - |
| Surround View Monitor | 360-Degree Surround View Camera | Standard |
| Tailgate Damper | Not Available | - |
| Tailgate Lock | Not Available | - |
| Tow Bar Type | Not Available | - |
| TPMS | Standard | Standard |
| Trim Level | flagship | - |
| Unlocking | Not Available | Standard |
| Variant Role | Flagship / premium derivative | - |
| Vdc | Standard | - |
| Vehicle To Grid | Not Available | - |
| Vehicle To Load | Not Available | - |
| Walk Away Auto Door Lock | Not Available | - |
| Walk Away Lock | Not Available | - |
| Wireless Charger | Wireless Apple CarPlay | Not Available |
| Spec | Baleno | MG3 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5-litre Naturally Aspirated Petrol | 1.5-litre Self Charging Hybrid |
| Engine Code | K15B | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Hybrid |
| Hybrid System | Not Applicable | Self Charging Hybrid |
| Engine Displacement | 1462 cc | 1498 cc |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Cylinder Layout | Inline | Inline |
| Valves | 16 | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | Naturally Aspirated |
| Fuel System | Multi-Point Injection | Multipoint Injection |
| Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Bore | 74 mm | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Stroke | 85.1 mm | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Maximum Power | 77 kW @ 6000 rpm | 75 kW @ 6000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 138 Nm @ 4400 rpm | 128 Nm @ 4500 rpm |
| Combined Power | Not Applicable | 155 kW |
| Combined Torque | Not Applicable | 425 Nm |
| Motor Type | Not Applicable | Permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor |
| Number of Motors | Not Applicable | 2 |
| Motor Location | Not Applicable | Front |
| Drive Type | FWD | FWD |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic | 3-Speed Automatic |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 170 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | 11.5 sec | 8.0 sec |
| Quarter Mile | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Drive Modes | Not Officially Disclosed | Eco, Standard, Sport |
| Launch Control | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| Rev Limiter | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 78.2 kW/tonne | 118.50 kW/tonne |
| Torque-to-Weight Ratio | 140.1 Nm/tonne | 324.92 Nm/tonne |
| Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | 1.83 kWh |
| Usable Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Battery Type | Not Applicable | Lithium-ion |
| Battery Voltage | Not Applicable | Not Officially Disclosed |
| 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 | Yes |
| Spec | Baleno | MG3 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Position | Transverse Front-Mounted | - |
| Gearbox | 4-Speed Automatic | 3-Speed Automatic hybrid transmission |
| Drivetrain Layout | Front Wheel Drive | Front-wheel drive |
| LSD Available | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Transfer Case | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Paddle Shifters | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Final Drive Ratio | 4.388:1 | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Steering Turns Lock to Lock | 2.8 | - |
| Number of Gears | 4 | 3 |
| Transmission Type | 4-Speed Automatic | Automatic |
| Clutch Type | Single Dry Plate Diaphragm | Not Applicable |
| Gear Shift Indicator | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Gear Shift Type | 4-Speed Automatic | Hybrid |
| Drivetrain | FWD | Front-wheel drive |
| 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 | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Differential Type Front | Not Available | - |
| Differential Type Rear | Not Available | - |
| Front Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Gearbox Type | 4-Speed Automatic | Hybrid transmission |
| Low Range Ratio | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Low Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Axle Layout | FWD | Front-wheel drive |
| Rear Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Transfer Case Guard | Not Available | - |
| Transmission Speeds | 4 | 3 |
| Spec | Baleno | MG3 |
|---|---|---|
| Claimed Mileage | 17.5 km/l | 23.26 km/l |
| City Mileage | 14.3 km/l | 27.03 km/l |
| Highway Mileage | 20.8 km/l | 20.41 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 l | 36 l |
| Emission Standard | Euro 5 | EURO 5 |
| AdBlue Tank Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Auto Start Stop | Not Applicable | Standard |
| Real-world Mileage | 17.5 km/l | 23.26 km/l |
| Charging Port Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Charging Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Fuel Tank Litres | 37 | 36 |
| Combined Driving Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Electric Consumption | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Highway | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Mixed | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Spec | Baleno | MG3 |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 6 | 6 |
| ABS | Standard | Standard |
| Electronic Stability Control | Standard | Standard |
| Traction Control | Standard | Standard |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Hill Start Assist | Standard | Standard |
| Child Safety Lock | Standard | Standard |
| ISOFIX Mounts | 2 Rear ISOFIX Points | Standard |
| Brake Assist | Standard | Standard |
| Tyre Pressure Monitor | Standard | Standard |
| Engine Immobiliser | Standard | Standard |
| Alarm System | Standard | - |
| Central Locking | Remote Central Locking | - |
| Side Impact Beams | Standard | - |
| Seatbelt Warning All Seats | All Seats | Standard |
| Speed Alert System | Standard — Audible Warning at 120 km/h | - |
| Pedestrian Detection AEB | Not Available | - |
| Front Parking Sensors | Not Available | Not Available |
| Safety Rating | Not Independently Rated | - |
| Whiplash Protection | Active Head Restraints on Front Seats | - |
| Lane Change Warning | Not Available | - |
| AEB | Not Available | Standard |
| BA | Standard | Standard |
| Brake Override System | Not Available | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Curtain Airbags | Not Available | Standard |
| Driver Airbag | 6 | Standard |
| EBD | Standard | Standard |
| Engine Immobiliser | Standard | Standard |
| Hill Hold | Standard | Standard |
| Passenger Airbag | 6 | Standard |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Not Available | Standard |
| Seatbelt Pretensioners | All Seats | Standard |
| Seatbelt Reminder | All Seats | Standard |
| Side Airbags | Not Available | Standard |
| Stability Control | Standard | Standard |
| TCS | Standard | Standard |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Not Available | - |
| Knee Airbag | Not Available | Not Available |
| ABS EBD | Standard | Standard |
| Anti Theft Alarm | Standard | - |
| Driver Front Passenger Airbags | 6 | - |
| Driver Passenger Airbags | 6 | - |
| ESC With Traction Control | Standard | - |
| Spec | Baleno | MG3 |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Control | Standard | Not Available |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Not Available | Standard |
| Lane Keep Assist | Not Available | Standard |
| Lane Departure Warning | Not Available | Standard |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Not Available | Standard |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Not Available | Standard |
| Parking Sensors | Rear | Rear |
| Rear View Camera | 360-Degree Surround View | Not Available |
| 360 Degree Camera | 360-Degree Surround View Camera | Standard |
| Autonomous Emergency Braking | Not Available | Standard |
| Driver Fatigue Alert | Not Available | Not Available |
| Traffic Sign Recognition | Not Available | Standard |
| Auto Highbeam | Not Available | Standard |
| Auto Lights | Standard | - |
| Auto Wipers | Standard | Standard |
| EV Mode | Not Available | - |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Rear | Standard |
| Reverse Camera | 360-Degree Surround View | Not Available |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Not Available | Standard |
| Park Assist | Not Available | Not Available |
| Around View Monitor | 360-Degree Surround View Camera | Standard |
| Blind Spot Warning | Not Available | Standard |
| Emergency Braking | Not Available | - |
| Forward Collision Warning | Not Available | Standard |
| Front Camera | Not Available | - |
| Parking Distance Sensors | Rear | - |
| Parking Sensor | Rear | - |
| Pre-Collision System | Not Available | - |
| Rain Sensor Wipers | Standard | - |
| Rear View Camera | 360-Degree Surround View | - |
| Reverse Camera Type | 360-Degree Surround View | - |
| Reversing Camera | 360-Degree Surround View | - |
| Surround View Camera | 360-Degree Surround View Camera | Standard |
| Spec | Baleno | MG3 |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Material | Leatherette Seat Covers | PVC + Fabric |
| Seat Adjustment | Manual 6-Way Driver Adjustment | - |
| Heated Seats | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Ventilated Seats | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Steering Type | Electric Power Assisted (EPAS) | - |
| Steering Adjustment | Tilt and Telescopic | - |
| Ambient Lighting | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Folding Rear Seats | 60:40 Split Fold | - |
| Front Armrest | Standard Centre Armrest | - |
| Rear Armrest | Integrated in Seat Back | - |
| Front Shoulder Room | 1390 mm | - |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 1365 mm | - |
| Cup Holders | 4 | - |
| Rear AC Vents | Not Available | - |
| Rear USB Ports | 0 | - |
| Steering Wheel Material | Urethane | PU |
| Instrument Cluster Type | Analogue with Digital Trip Display | - |
| Interior Colour Options | 2 | - |
| Driver Lumbar Support | Not Available | - |
| Door Map Pockets | All Four Door Pockets | - |
| 60 40 Split Seat | 60:40 Split Fold | Standard |
| Adjustable Driver Seat | Manual 6-Way Driver Adjustment | - |
| Driver Seat Adjustment | Manual 6-Way Driver Adjustment | 6-way manual |
| Fabric Seats | Leatherette Seat Covers | - |
| Passenger Seat Adjustment | Manual 6-Way Driver Adjustment | 4-way manual |
| Armrest Front | Standard Centre Armrest | - |
| Armrest Rear | Integrated in Seat Back | - |
| Boot Space Seats Down | 744 | - |
| Driver Seat | Manual 6-Way Driver Adjustment | - |
| Interior Courtesy Lamps | Panoramic sunroof on GL+, heads-up display on GL+, 9-inch touchscreen on GL+ with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, dual-zone climate control on GL+, paddle shifters on GL+, dual front airbags standard, ABS standard, rear | - |
| Interior Trim Colour | 2 | - |
| Leather Accented Seat Trim | Leatherette Seat Covers | - |
| Interior Colours | 2 | - |
| Rear Seat Centre Armrest | Integrated in Seat Back | - |
| Seat Adjustment Driver Backrest | Not Available | - |
| Seat Belt Warning | All Seats | - |
| Seat Fold Type | 60:40 Split Fold | - |
| Seat Trim | Leatherette Seat Covers | PVC + Fabric |
| Spec | Baleno | MG3 |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | 9-inch Touchscreen | 10.25-inch infotainment display |
| Apple CarPlay | Wired Apple CarPlay | Wireless |
| Android Auto | Wired Android Auto | Wireless |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Standard | Standard |
| Number of Speakers | 6 | 6 |
| Navigation System | Via Smartphone Mirroring | - |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | 9-inch Digital Cluster | 7-inch driver display |
| USB Ports | 2 | 2 front USB-C ports (1 full-function, 1 charging) |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | Wired Apple CarPlay | Wireless |
| Wireless Android Auto | Wired Android Auto | Wireless |
| FM Radio | Standard | - |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | Standard | - |
| Voice Recognition | Via Smartphone | - |
| AUX Input | Not Available | - |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 9-inch Touchscreen | 10.25-inch |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | Not Available | - |
| Audio Controls On Steering | Standard | - |
| Infotainment Display | 9-inch Touchscreen | - |
| Rear Usb | 2 | - |
| Audio | Standard | - |
| Audio Speakers | 6 | 6 |
| Audio System | Standard | - |
| Display Audio | 9-inch Touchscreen | - |
| Front Rear USB Charge Ports | 2 | - |
| Infotainment Screen | 9-inch Touchscreen | 10.25-inch |
| Multi Information Display | Analogue with Digital Trip Display | - |
| Connected Services | Standard | - |
| Voice Control | Via Smartphone | - |
| Smartphone Connectivity | Wired Apple CarPlay | - |
| Radio | Standard | - |
| Touchscreen | 9-inch Touchscreen | 10.25-inch |
| Spec | Baleno | MG3 |
|---|---|---|
| LED Headlamps | LED Projector Headlamps | Standard |
| Daytime Running Lamps | LED DRLs | LED |
| Fog Lamps | Front Fog Lamps | Not Available |
| Roof Rails | Not Available | Not Available |
| Alloy Wheel Design | 15-inch Polished Alloy Wheels | - |
| Chrome Exterior Finish | Not Available | - |
| Body Cladding | Not Available | - |
| Rear Spoiler | Not Available | - |
| Exterior Colour Options | 6 | Flare Red, Morning Yellow, Pearl Black, York White, Hampstead Grey, St. Moritz Blue, Blade Silver |
| Roof Type | Standard Fixed Roof | - |
| Wing Mirror Type | Electrically Adjustable Body-Coloured Mirrors | - |
| Rear Wiper | Standard | - |
| Door Handle Finish | Body-Coloured Door Handles | - |
| Body Type | Hatchback | - |
| DRL | LED DRLs | LED |
| Fog Lights | Front Fog Lamps | - |
| Front Fog Lights | Front Fog Lamps | - |
| Led Headlights | LED Projector Headlamps | Standard |
| Auto Headlights | Standard | - |
| Automatic Headlamps | Standard | - |
| Daytime Running Lights | LED DRLs | LED |
| Electric Blind Sunroof | Not Available | - |
| Exterior Colour Options | 5 | - |
| Exterior Door Handle Colour | Body-Coloured Door Handles | - |
| Exterior Mirror Electric | All Four Windows | - |
| Exterior Mirror Folding | Electrically Adjustable Auto-Fold Mirrors | - |
| Front Fog Lamps | Front Fog Lamps | Not Available |
| Headlamp Levelling | LED Projector Headlamps | - |
| Headlamps | LED Projector Headlamps | Standard |
| Headlight Type | LED Projector Headlamps | Standard |
| Headlights | LED Projector Headlamps | Standard |
| Load Bed Liner | Not Available | - |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Not Available | Not Available |
| Active Exhaust | Not Available | - |
| Rear Spoiler | Not Available | - |
| Sunroof Slide | Not Available | - |
| Sunroof Tilt | Not Available | - |
| Spec | Baleno | MG3 |
|---|---|---|
| Approach Angle | 17 deg | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Departure Angle | 22 deg | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Wading Depth | 0 mm | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Terrain Modes | Not Available | Not Available |
| Locking Differential | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Underbody Protection | Not Available | - |
| Ramp Breakover Angle | 0 deg | - |
| Recovery Hooks | 1 Rear Tow Hook | - |
| 4WD System Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Ramp-over Angle | 0 deg | - |
| Approach Angle Deg | 17 deg | - |
| Breakover Angle | 0 deg | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Departure Angle Deg | 22 deg | - |
| Energy Recovery Display | Not Available | - |
| Front Skid Plate Guard | Not Available | - |
| Ground Clearance Max | 150 mm | - |
| Ground Clearance Min | 150 mm | - |
| Off Road Descent Control | Not Available | - |
| Off Road Traction Assist | Not Available | - |
| Crawl Control | Not Available | - |
| Rear Skid Plate Guard | Not Available | - |
| Skid Plates Fuel Tank | Not Available | - |
| Skid Plates Transfer Case | 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 | - |
| Terrain Response System | Not Available | - |
| Underbody Camera | Not Available | - |
| Wading Depth Mm | 0 mm | - |
| Spec | Baleno | MG3 |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre Size | 185/65 R15 | 195/55 R16 |
| Wheel Type | 15-inch Polished Alloy Wheels | - |
| Front Brake Type | Ventilated Disc | Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Drum | Disc |
| Spare Wheel Type | Full Size Spare | Tyre repair kit |
| Front Brake Disc Diameter | 258 mm | - |
| Rear Brake Drum Diameter | 200 mm | - |
| Parking Brake Type | Conventional Handbrake | - |
| Tyre Load Index | 88 | - |
| Tyre Speed Rating | H | - |
| Wheel Rim Size | 15 Inches | 16-inch |
| Brake Type Front | Ventilated Disc | - |
| Brake Type Rear | Drum | - |
| Spare Tyre | Full Size Spare | Tyre repair kit |
| Tyre Type | 185/65 R15 | - |
| Wheel Diameter | 15 Inches | 16-inch |
| Auto Brake Hold | Conventional Handbrake | - |
| Autonomous Emergency Brake | Not Available | - |
| Brakes | Ventilated Disc | - |
| Cornering Brake Control | Standard | - |
| Electric Park Brake | Conventional Handbrake | - |
| Fifth Wheel Prep | Not Available | - |
| Handbrake Type | Conventional Handbrake | Electric |
| Hydraulic Brake Assist | Standard | - |
| Leather Steering Wheel | Urethane | - |
| Spare Wheel Size Type | Full Size Spare | - |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | Standard | - |
| Steering Wheel Cruise Controls | Standard | - |
| Steering Wheel Phone Controls | Standard | - |
| Steering Wheel Trim | Urethane | - |
| Tyre Pressure Display | Standard | - |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | Standard | Standard |
| Wheel Material | 15-inch Polished Alloy Wheels | - |
| Wheel Size Type | 15 Inches | - |
| Wheels | 15-inch Polished Alloy Wheels | - |
| Spec | Baleno | MG3 |
|---|---|---|
| Service Interval | 15,000 km or 12 Months | - |
| Approx Service Cost | Approx R2,000–R2,500 per Service | - |
| Battery Warranty | 12 Months | - |
| Maintenance Plan | Not Included | - |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 3.7 l | - |
| Engine Oil Change Interval | 10,000 km or 6 Months | - |
| First Service At | 1,000 km Inspection | - |
| Service Plan Duration | Not Included | MG3-specific service plan |
| Service Plan Distance | Not Included | MG3-specific service plan |
| Anti-Rust Treatment | Underbody Rust Protection | - |
| Service Plan | Not Included | MG3-specific service plan |
| Service Intervals | 15,000 km or 12 Months | - |
| Spec | Baleno | MG3 |
|---|---|---|
| Warranty Years | 5 | 5 years / 150,000 km |
| Warranty Kilometers | 5 | 5 years / 150,000 km |
| Roadside Assistance | 5 Years Roadside Assistance | - |
| Anti-Corrosion Warranty | 3 Years Anti-Corrosion | - |
| Basic Warranty | 5 | 5 years / 150,000 km |
| Roadside Assistance | 5 Years Roadside Assistance | - |
| Warranty | 5 | 5 years / 150,000 km |
| Warranty Roadside Assistance | 5 Years Roadside Assistance | - |
| Spec | Baleno | MG3 |
|---|---|---|
| CO2 Emissions | 133 g/km | 100 g/km |
| Start Stop System | Not Available | - |
| Hybrid System Type | Not Applicable | - |
| Noise Level | 68 dB | - |
| Variable Valve Timing | VVT on Intake Camshaft | - |
| Fuel Octane Requirement | 93 RON Unleaded | - |
| Particulate Filter | Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF) | - |
| Euro Emission Standard | Euro 5 | - |
| Green NCAP Rating | Not Independently Rated | - |
| Idle CO2 Output | Within Euro 5 Limits | - |
| Fuel Evaporation Control | Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) | - |
| CO2 Emissions G Km | 133 | - |
| Spec | Baleno | MG3 |
|---|---|---|
| Real-world City Mileage Min | 6.0 l/100km | - |
| Real-world City Mileage Max | 8.0 l/100km | - |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Min | 4.5 l/100km | - |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Max | 6.0 l/100km | - |
| Owner Review Count | 0 | - |
| Spec | Baleno | MG3 |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Role | Flagship | Passenger vehicle |
| Price Zar | 341900 ZAR | 469900 ZAR |
| Pricing Role | Current listed price | Current South African MSRP |
| Starting Price | 341900 | 469900 |
| Starting Price Zar | 341900 | 469900 |
In depth: how these cars differ
This Baleno and MG3 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 MG3 40.
Efficiency index: Baleno 67 vs MG3 90.
Safety-equipment index: Baleno 87 vs MG3 92.
Practicality index: Baleno 55 vs MG3 48.
Ownership-cover index: Baleno 71 vs MG3 not separately scored.
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 MG3 image comparison
Open an image for its full canonical file or visit the model page for the complete vehicle record.
Suzuki Baleno
View 8 more Baleno images
MG MG3
View 8 more MG3 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
MG3 leads by 5 points
Baleno and MG3 are close on the comparable published fields, so buyer priorities should decide.
Evidence leader
66
/100
Lead
5
points
Data
82%
source coverage
66
#1
Evidence leader
MG3
82% source coverage
2 strong categories
Best at
Safety 92
Check
Performance 40
Performance
40
Efficiency
90
Safety
92
Practicality
48
Leads by 5 points
61
#2
Baleno
89% source coverage
2 strong categories
Best at
Safety 87
Check
Performance 34
Performance
34
Efficiency
67
Safety
87
Practicality
55
Ownership
71
Performance 24%
Safety 22%
Practicality 22%
Efficiency 17%
Ownership 15%
Category leaders
What moves the verdict
Performance
MG3 +6
Efficiency
MG3 +23
Safety
MG3 +5
Practicality
Baleno +7
Close catalogue match. Buyer priorities should decide the outcome.
Why this score View full breakdown
Evidence-index leader
MG3
Performance
40/100
Efficiency
90/100
Safety
92/100
Practicality
48/100
Baleno
Performance
34/100
Efficiency
67/100
Safety
87/100
Practicality
55/100
Ownership
71/100
What the evidence means
Evidence index
MG MG3
leads the specification evidence index with 66 pts
vs 61 pts for Baleno
In Hagalu's specification evidence index, MG3 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 MG3 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.