Maruti Suzuki, India’s largest carmaker, has once again made headlines with its premium hatchback, the Baleno. The latest news is the car’s strong performance in the Bharat NCAP crash tests, where it has been awarded a 4-star safety rating. This achievement is a big step forward for Maruti Suzuki, which has often been questioned for the safety of its cars in the past. The Baleno’s strong score in adult occupant protection and decent child occupant protection shows that the company is serious about making safer cars for Indian roads.
The Bharat NCAP is India’s official car safety rating program, similar to global standards, and it tests cars for how well they protect adults and children in accidents. The Baleno was tested in two versions—one with two airbags (base model) and one with six airbags (top model). Both versions scored well, but the six-airbag version did even better in adult protection. The Baleno is now one of the safest premium hatchbacks in India, and this rating will likely make it even more popular among buyers who care about safety.
This article will take you through every detail of the Maruti Suzuki Baleno’s Bharat NCAP crash test results, including the scores, safety features, how the tests are done, and what this rating means for you as a buyer. We will also look at how the Baleno compares to other cars in its class and what new features it offers for safety and comfort.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno Bharat NCAP Results
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno has become one of the first premium hatchbacks to be tested under the new Bharat NCAP safety program. The car was tested in two configurations: the base model with two airbags and the top model with six airbags. Both versions scored well, but the six-airbag model scored higher in adult protection.
Below is a table summarizing the main details of the Maruti Suzuki Baleno Bharat NCAP crash test results:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Model Name | Maruti Suzuki Baleno |
| Bharat NCAP Rating | 4 Stars (Adult Occupant Protection) |
| Variants Tested | 2 Airbags (Sigma, Delta), 6 Airbags (Zeta, Alpha) |
| Adult Occupant Protection | 24.04/32 (2 airbags), 26.52/32 (6 airbags) |
| Child Occupant Protection | 34.81/49 (both variants) |
| Frontal Offset Test Score | 11.54/16 (both variants) |
| Side Impact Test Score | 12.50/16 (2 airbags), 14.99/16 (6 airbags) |
| Key Safety Features | ESP, 6 airbags (top model), ISOFIX, reverse parking sensors, hill-hold assist, high-speed alert, 360-view camera, rearview camera, 3-point ELR seatbelts |
| Engine | 1.2L K-series Dual Jet Dual VVT petrol |
| Power Output | 88 bhp at 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 113 Nm at 4400 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual, 5-speed AMT (automatic) |
Bharat NCAP Crash Test Explained
The Bharat NCAP is India’s official program to test how safe cars are in accidents. It is similar to global standards like Global NCAP. The tests look at how well a car protects adults and children in different types of crashes. The program is important because it helps buyers know which cars are safer and pushes car makers to make safer cars.
How Bharat NCAP Tests Work:
- Frontal Impact Test: The car is crashed into a barrier at 64 km/h with two adult dummies in the front seats and two child dummies in the back.
- Side Impact Test: The car is hit from the side at 50 km/h with one adult dummy in the driver’s seat and two child dummies in the back.
- Side Pole Impact Test: The car is pushed sideways into a pole at 29 km/h with one adult dummy in the driver’s seat.
- Safety Assist Technologies: The car must have features like seat belt reminders, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), and more to get a higher rating.
Bharat NCAP Star Rating System:
- 1 Star: 4+ points in adult protection, 9+ points in child protection.
- 2 Stars: 10+ points in adult protection, 18+ points in child protection.
- 3 Stars: 16+ points in adult protection, 24+ points in child protection.
- 4 Stars: 22+ points in adult protection, 35+ points in child protection.
- 5 Stars: 27+ points in adult protection, 41+ points in child protection.
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno scored 26.52/32 in adult protection (6 airbags) and 34.81/49 in child protection, which is why it got a 4-star rating for adult protection and 3 stars for child protection (some sources mention 4 stars overall, but official Bharat NCAP gives separate ratings for adult and child).
Baleno Crash Test Scores and Analysis
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno was tested in two versions. The base model with two airbags scored 24.04/32 in adult occupant protection and 34.81/49 in child occupant protection. The top model with six airbags scored 26.52/32 in adult protection and the same 34.81/49 in child protection.
Frontal Offset Deformable Barrier Test:
Both versions scored 11.54/16 in this test. This test checks how well the car protects adults in a head-on crash.
Side Impact Test:
The two-airbag version scored 12.50/16 and the six-airbag version scored 14.99/16. This test checks how well the car protects adults in a side crash. The higher score for the six-airbag version shows that extra airbags help protect the driver and front passenger better.
Child Occupant Protection:
Both versions scored 34.81/49. This score is the same because child protection depends more on the car’s structure and seat belt features than on the number of airbags. The Baleno did well in installing child seats (12/12) and in dynamic tests (16.81/24), but scored lower in vehicle assessment (6/13).
Safety Features of Maruti Suzuki Baleno
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno comes with many safety features, especially in the top model. Here are the main safety features:
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP): Helps keep the car stable in corners and slippery roads.
- 6 Airbags: In the top model (Zeta, Alpha) for better protection in crashes.
- ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts: Makes it easy and safe to install child seats.
- Reverse Parking Sensors and Camera: Helps avoid accidents while reversing.
- Hill Hold Assist: Prevents the car from rolling back on slopes.
- High-Speed Alert System: Warns the driver if the car goes too fast.
- 360-Degree Camera: Gives a full view around the car for safe parking.
- Rearview Camera: Helps see what’s behind the car.
- 3-Point ELR Seatbelts: For all seats, with pretensioners and force limiters.
- Speed-Sensitive Auto Door Locking: Locks doors automatically when the car reaches a certain speed.
- Auto IRVM (Inside Rearview Mirror): Auto-dimming for better night vision.
Engine and Performance
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno is powered by a 1.2-litre K-series Dual Jet Dual VVT petrol engine. This engine produces 88 bhp at 6000 rpm and 113 Nm of torque at 4400 rpm. The car comes with a 5-speed manual gearbox as standard and a 5-speed AMT (automatic) gearbox as an option. The Delta and Zeta variants also offer a factory-fitted CNG option for better fuel economy.
Key Engine and Performance Data:
- Engine: 1.2-litre K-series Dual Jet Dual VVT petrol
- Power: 88 bhp at 6000 rpm
- Torque: 113 Nm at 4400 rpm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual, 5-speed AMT (automatic)
- Fuel Type: Petrol, CNG (Delta, Zeta variants)
- Estimated Mileage: Around 22 kmpl (petrol), up to 30 kmpl (CNG)
Variants and Pricing
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno is available in four main variants: Sigma, Delta, Zeta, and Alpha. The Sigma is the base model with two airbags, while the Zeta and Alpha are the top models with six airbags. The Delta is a mid-level variant with two airbags.
Pricing (Ex-showroom):
- Sigma: ₹6.70 lakh
- Delta: ₹7.56 lakh
- Zeta: ₹8.83 lakh
- Alpha: ₹9.92 lakh
The Delta and Zeta variants also offer a factory-fitted CNG option for buyers who want better fuel economy.
Comparison with Other Cars
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno is one of the safest premium hatchbacks in India after its Bharat NCAP results. Here is a quick comparison with some other popular cars in the same class:
| Model Name | Bharat NCAP Rating | Adult Protection Score | Child Protection Score | Key Safety Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maruti Suzuki Baleno | 4 Stars | 24.04–26.52/32 | 34.81/49 | 6 airbags, ESP, ISOFIX, 360 camera |
| Maruti Suzuki Dzire | 5 Stars | 29.46/32 | 41.57/49 | 6 airbags, ESP, ISOFIX, 360 camera |
| Tata Altroz | 5 Stars | 29.15/32 | 42.00/49 | 6 airbags, ESP, ISOFIX, 360 camera |
| Hyundai i20 | Not tested yet | – | – | 6 airbags, ESP, ISOFIX |
The Baleno is the first premium hatchback to be tested under Bharat NCAP, and its 4-star rating is a strong result, though some rivals like the Tata Altroz and Maruti Suzuki Dzire have scored even higher.
What the 4-Star Bharat NCAP Rating Means for Buyers
The 4-star Bharat NCAP rating means that the Maruti Suzuki Baleno is a very safe car for adults in most types of crashes. The car protects adults well in both frontal and side impacts, especially in the top model with six airbags. The child protection score is also good, but not as high as some other cars in the same class.
For buyers, this rating means:
- Better Protection in Accidents: The car is strong and safe, especially for adults.
- More Confidence: Buyers can trust that the car will protect their family in most accidents.
- Higher Resale Value: A good safety rating can help the car keep its value over time.
- More Safety Features: The top model has many advanced safety features.
The Baleno is now a top choice for buyers who want a safe, stylish, and feature-rich premium hatchback.
Statistical Highlights
Here are some key statistics about the Maruti Suzuki Baleno Bharat NCAP crash test results:
- Bharat NCAP Rating: 4 Stars (Adult Occupant Protection)
- Adult Protection Score: 24.04/32 (2 airbags), 26.52/32 (6 airbags)
- Child Protection Score: 34.81/49 (both variants)
- Frontal Offset Test Score: 11.54/16 (both variants)
- Side Impact Test Score: 12.50/16 (2 airbags), 14.99/16 (6 airbags)
- Engine: 1.2-litre K-series Dual Jet Dual VVT petrol
- Power: 88 bhp at 6000 rpm
- Torque: 113 Nm at 4400 rpm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual, 5-speed AMT (automatic)
- Safety Features: 6 airbags, ESP, ISOFIX, reverse parking sensors, hill-hold assist, high-speed alert, 360-view camera, rearview camera, 3-point ELR seatbelts
- Price Range: ₹6.70 lakh to ₹9.92 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Estimated Mileage: Around 22 kmpl (petrol), up to 30 kmpl (CNG)
Detailed Analysis of Safety Features
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno offers a wide range of safety features, especially in the top model. Here is a detailed look at some of the most important ones:
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP): This system helps keep the car stable, especially in slippery or sharp turns. It is a must-have for modern cars.
- 6 Airbags: The top model has airbags for the driver, front passenger, and side curtains. This gives extra protection in side and frontal crashes.
- ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts: These make it easy and safe to install child seats, which is important for families.
- Reverse Parking Sensors and Camera: These help avoid accidents while reversing, especially in tight parking spots.
- Hill Hold Assist: This feature prevents the car from rolling back on slopes, which is useful in hilly areas or traffic jams.
- High-Speed Alert System: This warns the driver if the car goes too fast, helping to prevent speeding.
- 360-Degree Camera: This gives a full view around the car, making parking and maneuvering much easier.
- Rearview Camera: This helps see what’s behind the car, which is especially useful in heavy traffic.
- 3-Point ELR Seatbelts: All seats have seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters for extra safety.
- Speed-Sensitive Auto Door Locking: This locks the doors automatically when the car reaches a certain speed, which is good for security.
- Auto IRVM (Inside Rearview Mirror): This mirror dims automatically at night, reducing glare from headlights behind the car.
Engine and Driving Experience
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno is powered by a 1.2-litre K-series Dual Jet Dual VVT petrol engine. This engine is smooth, quiet, and efficient. It produces 88 bhp at 6000 rpm and 113 Nm of torque at 4400 rpm. The car is available with a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 5-speed AMT (automatic) gearbox. The automatic version is easy to drive in city traffic and is a good choice for new drivers.
The Delta and Zeta variants also offer a factory-fitted CNG option. This is a great choice for buyers who want better fuel economy and lower running costs. The estimated mileage for the petrol version is around 22 kmpl, while the CNG version can go up to 30 kmpl.
Variants and Features
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno is available in four main variants: Sigma, Delta, Zeta, and Alpha. Here is a quick look at what each variant offers:
- Sigma: Base model with two airbags, basic features, and manual gearbox only.
- Delta: Mid-level model with two airbags, more features, and manual/AMT gearbox options. Also available with CNG.
- Zeta: Top model with six airbags, many advanced features, and manual/AMT gearbox options. Also available with CNG.
- Alpha: Top model with six airbags, all features, and manual/AMT gearbox options.
Key Features in Top Model:
- 6 Airbags
- ESP
- ISOFIX
- Reverse Parking Sensors and Camera
- Hill Hold Assist
- High-Speed Alert System
- 360-Degree Camera
- Rearview Camera
- 3-Point ELR Seatbelts
- Speed-Sensitive Auto Door Locking
- Auto IRVM
Market Impact and Buyer Benefits
The 4-star Bharat NCAP rating is a big achievement for Maruti Suzuki and the Baleno. It shows that the car is safe, modern, and ready to compete with other top hatchbacks in India. The rating will help the Baleno attract more buyers who care about safety and want the latest features.
Benefits for Buyers:
- Safer Car: The Baleno is now one of the safest premium hatchbacks in India.
- More Features: The top model has many advanced safety and comfort features.
- Better Value: The car is stylish, efficient, and now safer than ever.
- Peace of Mind: Buyers can trust that the car will protect their family in most accidents.
Conclusion
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno’s 4-star Bharat NCAP rating is a milestone for the car and for Maruti Suzuki. The car is now one of the safest premium hatchbacks in India, with strong scores in adult protection and good scores in child protection. The top model offers many advanced safety features, a smooth and efficient engine, and a stylish design.
For buyers, this means more confidence, better protection, and a car that is ready for the future. The Baleno is now a top choice for anyone looking for a safe, stylish, and feature-rich premium hatchback in India.
