Made In India Maruti Suzuki Baleno Scored Just 2 Stars in the Latin NCAP crash Test

The India-made Maruti Suzuki Baleno has scored just 2 stars in the Latin NCAP crash test. The tested model was equipped with six airbags. However, it is important to note that the testing standards differ from those of Bharat NCAP. Recently, the made-in-India Hyundai Grand i10 Nios also disappointed with a zero-star rating when tested by the African NCAP.

Maruti Suzuki Baleno's Latin NCAP scores

Safety has now become a key priority for car buyers. Independent bodies such as Global NCAP, Latin NCAP, and Euro NCAP conduct crash tests and provide safety ratings. During the Latin NCAP crash tests, the Made-in-India Baleno scored 79% for adult protection, 65% for child protection, 48% for pedestrian protection, and 58% for safety assist features, resulting in a 2-star rating.

The Maruti Suzuki Baleno missed features such as Autonomous Emergency Braking, Speed Assist System, Lane Assist System, an airbag cut-off switch, knee airbags, and side head airbags, which are required under Latin NCAP standards. This is why Latin NCAP gave the India-made Baleno a very low rating. Very soon, Bharat NCAP safety standards are also expected to change, as new regulations will meet the standards of the Euro NCAP.

The Maruti Suzuki Baleno currently has a 4-star safety rating under Bharat NCAP for both 2-airbag and 6-airbag variants. It also offers safety features such as ESP, ISOFIX anchorages, reverse parking sensors, hill-hold assist, an advanced suspension system, a 360-degree camera, and cruise control.

It is powered by a 1197cc K-Series petrol engine that produces 89.7 PS at 6,000 rpm and 113 Nm of torque at 4,400 rpm. A CNG variant is also available, producing 77.5 PS and 98.5 Nm of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT.

Maruti Suzuki sells the Baleno at a starting price of ₹5.99 lakh (ex-showroom), while the top variant is priced at ₹9.10 lakh (ex-showroom). The premium hatchback competes with cars such as the Hyundai i20, Tata Altroz, and Toyota Glanza.