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