Maruti Suzuki has taken a significant leap in safety by now offering six airbags as a standard feature across all variants of two of its best-sellers, the Baleno and Ertiga. This update aligns with the carmaker’s commitment to enhance safety across its lineup, following similar upgrades to models like the Alto K10, Celerio, WagonR, and Eeco earlier this year.
Prior to this update, only the top-end variants of the Baleno, such as Zeta and Alpha, came with six airbags. Now, even the entry-level Sigma and mid-level Delta trims are equipped with this crucial safety feature. Alongside the addition of airbags, the Baleno comes with other significant safety enhancements, including:
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Hill Hold Assist
- Three-point seat belts with reminders for all passengers
- Brake Assist
The Ertiga also joins in on the upgrade with standard six airbags, complemented by a minor price increase of around 1.4%. Meanwhile, the Baleno is set for a nominal price hike of approximately 0.5%.
Enhanced Safety Meets Proven Performance
The inclusion of six airbags is not just a checklist item but a significant enhancement to the vehicles’ safety credentials. The Maruti Suzuki Baleno recently received a 4-star safety rating from Bharat NCAP for variants equipped with six airbags, a rating now applicable across its lineup.
On the other hand, the Ertiga, while yet to be tested by Bharat NCAP, received a 1-star safety rating during the 2024 Global NCAP crash test on its South African-spec model. Despite the earlier rating, Maruti Suzuki’s decision to standardize six airbags showcases its commitment to prioritizing passenger safety.
Performance Combination with Safety
Even with these significant safety upgrades, both the Baleno and Ertiga maintain their performance DNA. The Maruti Suzuki Baleno is powered by a:
- 1.2-liter K12C petrol engine delivering 90 hp.
- Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT gearbox.
- Available in both petrol and CNG fuel options.
The Ertiga, on the other hand, features a 1.5-liter K15C mild-hybrid petrol engine producing 103 bhp and 139 Nm of peak torque. Like the Baleno, the Ertiga also offers a CNG option, making it versatile for both urban and family needs.
These updates became effective starting July 16, 2025, reflecting Maruti Suzuki’s efforts to set safety benchmarks in the compact hatchback and MPV segments.
