Introduced by the Central government in 2023, the Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (BNCAP) has taken over the responsibility of Global NCAP to conduct crash tests and award scores to cars sold in the country, and BNCAP has released its latest set of crash test results for the Maruti Suzuki Baleno which has achieved a 4-star safety rating. The Baleno, equipped with six airbags, scored 26.52 out of 32 points in the Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) test, earning a 4-star rating. However, the Child Occupant Protection (COP) test score was 34.81 out of 49, which translates to an acceptable 3-star rating. The dual-airbag variants of the Baleno scored only 24.04 points in the Adult Occupant Protection test, while the Child Occupant Protection score remained the same.
After previously scoring zero-star ratings at the Global NCAP and Latin NCAP tests, these revised scores are certainly commendable for Baleno. It comes equipped with an array of safety features, including seatbelt pre-tensioners with load limiters, ISOFIX child seat mounts, electronic stability control (ESC), and seatbelt reminders for all five occupants. Additionally, one variant came fitted with dual front airbags, while the other featured dual side and curtain airbags, taking the total number of airbags to six. The Baleno also complies with AIS-100 pedestrian protection norms and ESC regulations.
To read about the Maruti Suzuki Dzire’s BNCAP test scores, click here.
As per the report, the Zeta and Alpha variants of the Baleno offered ‘good’ head and neck protection from the frontal offset deformable barrier test. While protection for the driver’s chest and thighs was marginal, the same for the legs was adequate. As for the co-driver, the remaining body parts received adequate protection. Results from the side impact tests were also positive.
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno is sold exclusively through the brand’s Nexa dealerships and is available in four variants: Sigma, Delta, Zeta, and Alpha. Prices start at Rs 6.70 lakh and go up to Rs 9.92 lakh (ex-showroom, India). Powering the Baleno is a 1.2-litre petrol engine mated to a manual and an AMT gearbox, although the base trim is only available with a manual transmission. Additionally, the Delta and Zeta trims also get the option for a factory-fitted CNG kit.
