Made-in-India Suzuki Baleno Scores 1 Star in Latin NCAP Crash Test: Complete Analysis
The made-in-India Suzuki Baleno has recently undergone safety assessments by the Latin New Car Assessment Programme (Latin NCAP), where it achieved a disappointing one-star safety rating. This result has sparked discussions about the safety standards of export-spec vehicles compared to those sold in the domestic Indian market. While the Baleno remains a popular choice in various international markets, the latest crash test data highlights significant areas for improvement in occupant protection and safety assistance features.\
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Latin NCAP Crash Test Results: The Specifics\
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The assessment was conducted under the latest Latin NCAP protocols, which are known for their rigorous standards. The Suzuki Baleno, equipped with dual front airbags and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) as standard, was put through multiple tests, including frontal impact, side impact, and pedestrian protection.\
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Adult Occupant Protection\
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In the adult occupant protection category, the Baleno scored a mere 42.28%. While the frontal impact showed a stable structure and footwell, the side impact test revealed weak chest protection for the driver. The absence of side head protection (curtain airbags) as standard in the base version contributed to the low score, as a pole side impact test could not even be conducted.\
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Child Occupant Protection\
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The car performed slightly better in child occupant protection, scoring 65.46%. The dummies for 1.5 and 3-year-olds received good protection during the frontal impact when installed in rear-facing child seats using ISOFIX mounts. However, the lack of a passenger airbag deactivation switch limited the overall score in this category.\
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Pedestrian and Safety Assist\
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The Baleno achieved 48.28% in pedestrian protection, with adequate to marginal results for head protection but poor performance for the upper leg area. In the Safety Assist category, it scored 58.14%, primarily due to the inclusion of ESC and seatbelt reminders, but the absence of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) like Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) was a limiting factor.\
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Maruti Suzuki’s Response: Standardising 6 Airbags\
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Following the initial test results, Suzuki responded by standardising side body and curtain airbags for the Baleno in the Latin American region. The updated six-airbag version was subsequently tested and showed a notable improvement, achieving a two-star rating. This version saw the adult occupant protection score jump to 79.38%, demonstrating the critical importance of side airbags in enhancing passenger safety.\
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Contrast with Bharat NCAP Ratings\
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It is interesting to note that the Indian-spec Maruti Suzuki Baleno had previously secured a 4-star rating in the indigenous Bharat NCAP crash tests for adult protection. This discrepancy highlights the differences in testing protocols and safety equipment levels across different regions. While Bharat NCAP results are encouraging for Indian buyers, the Latin NCAP findings remind manufacturers of the global benchmarks for safety.\
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Pros and Cons of the Suzuki Baleno\
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Pros:\
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- Fuel Efficiency: Known for its class-leading mileage.\
\ - Spacious Cabin: Offers ample legroom and a premium interior feel.\
\ - Stable Bodyshell: Confirmed by both Latin NCAP and Bharat NCAP.\
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Cons:\
\ - Base Variant Safety: The dual-airbag version lacks adequate side impact protection.\
\ - Absence of ADAS: Competitors are increasingly offering active safety features.\
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FAQ\
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Q: Is the Baleno safe for Indian roads?\
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A: Yes, the Indian-spec Baleno has a 4-star Bharat NCAP rating, but buyers should opt for variants with 6 airbags for maximum safety.\
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Q: What caused the 1-star rating in Latin NCAP?\
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A: The low rating was due to weak chest protection in side impacts and the absence of side curtain airbags in the tested base model.\
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Q: Does the new Baleno have 6 airbags?\
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A: Yes, higher variants in India and now standard variants in Latin America come with 6 airbags.\
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For more details on car safety and latest launches, check out Blogspud. You can also read our review of the Skoda Kylaq Base Variant for comparison.
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