The Suzuki Baleno Latin NCAP results are finally out, revealing how the popular hatchback performed in global safety tests. The car, made in India and exported to Latin America, achieved a 1-star rating for the two-airbag variant and a 2-star rating for the six-airbag version in the Suzuki Baleno Latin NCAP crash test.
In short, while the structure of the car performed well, limited safety features in the base model led to a lower Baleno safety rating. The India-made Suzuki Baleno Latin NCAP crash test highlights the difference between regional standards and shows how the same model can score differently under Bharat NCAP vs Latin NCAP protocols. Let’s explore what these ratings mean for Indian buyers and how the Baleno compares with its competitors.
The Suzuki Baleno Latin NCAP evaluation was conducted under the 2025 protocols of the Latin New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP), which tests crash performance and safety systems in vehicles sold across Latin America.
These protocols assess multiple areas such as:
Latin NCAP follows a stricter scoring system compared to India’s Bharat NCAP. It weighs not just crash performance but also active safety technologies like lane assist, autonomous braking, and speed assist systems.
The Suzuki Baleno Latin NCAP crash test results were split between two configurations:
Two-airbag version – 1-star overall rating
Six-airbag version – 2-star overall rating
Both models were manufactured in India, confirming the growing role of Indian plants in Suzuki’s global exports.
| Variant | Airbags | Adult Occupant Protection | Child Occupant Protection | Pedestrian Protection | Safety Assist | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2-Airbag | Dual | 42.28% | 65.46% | 48.28% | 58.14% | ★ |
| 6-Airbag | Six | 79.38% | 65% | 48% | 58% | ★★ |
The Baleno 1-star rating version showed adequate frontal protection but weak results in side-impact tests. The Made-in-India Baleno safety structure was deemed “stable,” meaning it could handle more load without collapsing. The six-airbag model significantly improved head and chest protection, helping it earn the 2-star score.
The Suzuki Baleno Latin NCAP crash test found the body shell stable with minimal footwell intrusion. However, side-impact protection for the chest area was weak in the two-airbag model, limiting its star rating.
Latin NCAP places high emphasis on active safety systems such as:
The Baleno safety rating suffered due to the absence of these features, which are not yet standard in this segment.
The two-airbag version tested initially had limited protection in side impacts. Suzuki later tested the six-airbag variant, resulting in a 2-star improvement, confirming how crucial additional airbags are to occupant safety.
While the Baleno includes ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and seatbelt reminders, its Safety Assist score remained moderate, affecting the overall result.
A major talking point is the difference between Bharat NCAP vs Latin NCAP. Though both agencies test crashworthiness, the standards vary.
| Criteria | Bharat NCAP | Latin NCAP |
|---|---|---|
| Protocol Year | 2023 | 2025 |
| Star Range | 0–5 | 0–5 |
| ADAS Requirement | Optional | Mandatory for full rating |
| Tested Variant | 2 & 6 Airbags | 2 & 6 Airbags |
| Overall Rating | ★★★★ | ★★ |
Under Bharat NCAP, the Indian-spec Baleno scored 4 stars, while the export version tested under Suzuki Baleno Latin NCAP managed 2 stars. The difference arises mainly because Latin NCAP has stricter requirements and penalizes vehicles without advanced safety assist systems.
The same India-made car can perform differently under two NCAP programs due to different scoring weightages and test equipment. This shows that Made-in-India Baleno safety is strong, but the lack of advanced tech limits its global rating potential.
For reference, read our 2026 Maruti Suzuki Brezza review to understand how modern safety tech is evolving across Suzuki’s lineup.
After the Baleno 1-star rating, Suzuki quickly responded by standardizing side and curtain airbags in export versions. This proactive step improved protection and allowed the model to earn two stars in the India-made Suzuki Baleno Latin NCAP crash test.
These upgrades also align with Suzuki’s global goal to improve its small-car safety portfolio by 2026, when Latin NCAP introduces even more stringent testing.
You can also read about KTM 160 Duke TFT Display Variant launched to see how performance and safety are merging across segments.
To understand the Baleno safety rating in perspective, it’s helpful to compare it with its segment rivals.
| Model | NCAP Agency | Adult Rating | Child Rating | Airbags | Overall Star |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suzuki Baleno | Latin NCAP | 79% | 65% | 6 | ★★ |
| Tata Altroz | Global NCAP | 90% | 85% | 2 | ★★★★ |
| Hyundai i20 | Global NCAP | 75% | 68% | 6 | ★★★ |
| Toyota Glanza | Latin NCAP | 79% | 65% | 6 | ★★ |
Analysis:
While the Suzuki Baleno Latin NCAP version delivers decent occupant safety, rivals like the Tata Altroz outperform it due to stronger body structures and simplified scoring criteria. However, Baleno remains competitive in its technology and export reach.
For those considering alternative options, explore Jetour G700 price in India for insight into premium safety features.
For Indian buyers, the Suzuki Baleno Latin NCAP crash test serves as an important reminder — safety features matter as much as mileage and design.
Ultimately, Made-in-India Baleno safety is evolving, and future models are expected to meet global crash norms more effectively. For those exploring sustainable mobility, see our review on electric scooters in Chennai and three-wheel electric scooters to understand how electrification and safety go hand in hand.
Latin NCAP is not just for export markets; its data helps evaluate how global manufacturing quality translates across regions.
Bharat NCAP brings transparency to Indian consumers, allowing easy comparison of domestic models’ safety ratings.
While NCAP scores are laboratory-based, they push automakers to improve design, material strength, and safety features in production vehicles.
At CarBlogs, our focus is on helping readers make informed car-buying decisions. The Suzuki Baleno Latin NCAP story reinforces the importance of safety-first decisions.
When comparing cars:
CarBlogs Tip: A car with more safety assists may cost slightly more, but it’s an investment in your life. Interested in budget-friendly green transport? Check the latest electric e-rickshaw price for affordable alternatives.
The Suzuki Baleno Latin NCAP crash test results show a tale of two outcomes:
The India-made Suzuki Baleno Latin NCAP crash test proves that Indian-built cars are strong but need more advanced tech to compete globally. The Baleno safety rating under Bharat NCAP vs Latin NCAP highlights how protocols, not production quality, often dictate the results.
In conclusion, if you’re considering a Baleno, choose the variant with six airbags and ESC. It aligns with Suzuki’s evolving commitment to safety while maintaining its affordability and reliability. For more updates on safety tech in SUVs, visit Jetour X50 price.
1. What was the Suzuki Baleno Latin NCAP crash test rating?
The Suzuki Baleno Latin NCAP received 1 star for the two-airbag variant and 2 stars for the six-airbag model, based on occupant and safety assist evaluations.
2. Why did the Baleno receive a low safety rating?
The Baleno 1-star rating was due to weak side impact protection and missing ADAS features, which are crucial in Latin NCAP’s latest scoring system.
3. Is the Indian Baleno the same as the Latin American model?
Both are manufactured in India, but the export version follows Latin market specifications, meaning minor feature differences.
4. What is the difference between Bharat NCAP vs Latin NCAP?
Bharat NCAP focuses on Indian driving conditions and core crash safety, while Latin NCAP includes strict ADAS and pedestrian safety evaluations.
5. Which Baleno variant is safest to buy?
The six-airbag variant is the safest, as proven in the India-made Suzuki Baleno Latin NCAP crash test.
6. How does the Baleno compare to its competitors?
While Baleno’s body structure is stable, rivals like the Tata Altroz perform better under Global NCAP due to stronger safety assist coverage.
7. Will Suzuki improve the Baleno’s safety further?
Yes. Suzuki has already introduced six airbags in more trims and aims to add advanced driver assist features by 2026. Also, explore future-ready vehicles like the Kawasaki Versys X-300 to see how manufacturers are evolving in safety.
8. Does the Baleno sold in India have a good safety record?
Yes, the Indian Baleno scored 4 stars under Bharat NCAP, proving the Made-in-India Baleno safety standards are competitive.
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