Maruti Baleno Scores Up To 2-Star Safety Rating in Latin NCAP Crash Test: Detailed Results

The Maruti Baleno, manufactured in India, underwent crash testing by Latin NCAP. The results revealed a discrepancy compared to its Bharat NCAP rating. While it achieved a 4-star rating in Bharat NCAP testing, the Baleno received lower scores from Latin NCAP due to their more stringent evaluation process. Specifically, the Baleno earned a 1-star safety rating for the version with two airbags and a 2-star rating for the version equipped with six airbags.

A detailed breakdown of the Latin NCAP results is as follows:

• Adult Occupant Protection:**
• The Baleno achieved up to 79 percent in adult occupant protection. The two-airbag model scored 42 percent. In frontal crash tests, the Baleno provided good protection for the head and neck of adult occupants. Chest protection was deemed adequate. Knee protection was marginal. That said, the reality is a bit more complicated. the vehicle's bodyshell and footwell area demonstrated stability.

Side impact tests revealed a performance difference between the two versions. The six-airbag Baleno offered better chest protection compared to the two-airbag version, which showed weaker chest safety performance. Whiplash protection for the neck was rated as good in both configurations. The side pole impact test was not conducted on the two-airbag model.

• Child Occupant Protection:**
• In terms of child safety, the Baleno scored 65 percent. Both child dummies received good protection when secured in rear-facing child seats using ISOFIX mounts. That said, the reality is a bit more complicated. the front passenger seat lacks ISOFIX mounts, meaning it does not support child seat installation.

• Pedestrian Protection:**
• The Baleno's pedestrian protection was rated at 48 percent. The vehicle met basic regulatory requirements in this area. Head protection offered by the bonnet ranged from adequate to marginal in most areas, with poor protection noted near the A-pillars. A small central portion of the bonnet provided good protection. Upper leg protection was generally poor, while lower leg protection performed well. These results were consistent across both the two-airbag and six-airbag versions.

• Safety Assist Systems:**
• The Baleno includes seatbelt reminders for all seating positions, which meet Latin NCAP standards. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is standard equipment. That said, the reality is a bit more complicated. the absence of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) features limited the Baleno's score in this category.