Salam,I should say that BALENO IS GREAT in every aspect expect its ground clearance(problem only in its later released version),I think groud clearance is not a very big factor while choosing a car(or choose JAHAAZ COROLLA),I have been using Baleno since 1999.First I bought the Japanese Baleno GLi(not GLi-P),that was a good experience & after that I bought Baleno-JXR in April 2003 & using it till today.I think its a good car bcoz of its good handling,road grip is wonderful much better than corolla,looks are good as compared to the TOPA shape of City.So my last word is GOOD CAR BALENO.Buy any version of Baleno(1998 or 2001),both are good.