In a major move towards enhancing passenger safety, Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) has launched updated versions of its popular models — Ertiga and Baleno — now equipped with six airbags as standard in select variants. This development marks a significant step in the Indian automotive industry’s journey towards safer mobility and aligns with global safety standards.
Let’s dive into the details of this exciting update that promises a more secure driving experience for Indian families.
🛡️ Safety First: Why Six Airbags Matter
In recent years, Indian consumers have become increasingly conscious about car safety. With the rising number of road accidents, features like airbags, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) have become non-negotiables for many buyers.
In the case of an accident, six airbags—usually comprising front, side, and curtain airbags—provide complete protection for both the front and back occupants. They significantly reduce the risk of serious injury, especially during side impacts and rollovers.
In addition to demonstrating its dedication to consumer safety, Maruti Suzuki moves one step closer to fulfilling the future Bharat NCAP safety standards by providing six airbags in the Ertiga ZXi+ and Baleno Zeta and Alpha models.
🚗 The Ertiga: A Safe Bet for Large Families
The Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, a favorite among Indian families and fleet owners alike, now becomes an even stronger contender in the MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) segment. With its spacious interiors, reliable engine, and practical design, the Ertiga was already a value-for-money option. The addition of six airbags in the top-end ZXi+ variant adds a major safety advantage.
✅ Key Features in the Updated Ertiga ZXi+:
- Six airbags: driver, co-driver, front side, and curtain
- ESP with Hill Hold Assist (standard in automatic variants)
- SmartPlay Pro+ infotainment system
- Connected car tech with Suzuki Connect
- Alloy wheels, LED tail lamps, and chrome accents
Whether you’re using it for long family trips or city commutes, the Ertiga’s updated safety package brings extra peace of mind.
🚘 The Baleno: Premium Hatchback Now Safer Than Ever
Already one of India’s top-selling premium hatchbacks, the Maruti Suzuki Baleno has now raised the bar higher by introducing six airbags in its Zeta and Alpha variants. This upgrade makes it one of the most safety-packed offerings in the sub-10 lakh segment.
✅ Highlights of the Updated Baleno:
- Six airbags in mid and top variants
- 360-degree camera system
- ESP and Hill Hold Assist (in AMT variants)
- 9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ touchscreen
- Head-Up Display (HUD) for driver convenience
- LED projector headlamps and DRLs
The Baleno’s robust build, combined with enhanced safety features, makes it an excellent option for young professionals, city commuters, and small families looking for a secure and stylish ride.
🏁 Maruti Suzuki’s Bigger Vision for Safer Roads
This move by Maruti Suzuki is not just about keeping up with competition — it’s about prioritizing passenger safety as a core value. The company had earlier introduced dual airbags as standard across all variants in many of its models, and this latest update takes their safety game several notches higher.
Maruti has also been investing in vehicle crash testing and R&D, preparing for the expected implementation of Bharat NCAP (New Car Assessment Program), which will rate vehicles based on safety performance. The addition of six airbags in popular models like Ertiga and Baleno puts Maruti in a stronger position to meet those standards.
🧑🤝🧑 Who Benefits From These Updates?
- Families – Both Ertiga and Baleno are popular choices for Indian families. With six airbags, they offer a much safer option for long journeys or daily school runs.
- Fleet Operators – Safety is becoming a major factor in commercial and ride-sharing fleets. A safer MPV like the Ertiga is likely to become even more appealing.
- Young Professionals – With its innovative features, the Baleno is the perfect combination of technology, style, and safety for city drivers.
- Safety-Conscious Buyers – With government emphasis on road safety, more Indian consumers are prioritizing safety over mileage and price. These updates cater to exactly that shift.
💰 Price and Availability
The price increase for the updated variants with six airbags is minimal compared to the safety benefit it offers. Here’s a quick look at the pricing (ex-showroom, Delhi):
- Ertiga ZXi+ MT: Approx ₹11.60 lakh
- Baleno Zeta MT: Approx ₹9.20 lakh
- Baleno Alpha MT: Approx ₹9.75 lakh
These variants are now available at Maruti Suzuki ARENA (Ertiga) and NEXA dealerships (Baleno) across India.
🔍 How It Compares With Rivals
With the six-airbag feature, the Ertiga and Baleno now take on rivals like the Hyundai i20, Tata Altroz, Kia Carens, and Toyota Rumion more confidently in terms of safety.
| Model | Airbags | Segment | Starting Price (Approx) |
| Maruti Baleno Zeta+ | 6 | Premium Hatchback | ₹9.20 lakh |
| Hyundai i20 Asta(O) | 6 | Premium Hatchback | ₹9.05 lakh |
| Maruti Ertiga ZXi+ | 6 | MPV | ₹11.60 lakh |
| Kia Carens Premium | 6 | MPV | ₹11.45 lakh |
| Tata Altroz XZ+S | 6 | Premium Hatchback | ₹9.10 lakh |
🏁 Final Thoughts
Growing consumer demand for safer cars is reflected in Maruti Suzuki‘s decision to introduce the Ertiga and Baleno with six airbags in some models. This initiative not only enhances the brand’s reputation but also sets a new benchmark in India’s budget and mid-range car segments.
With global safety awareness rising and Indian roads witnessing unpredictable conditions, features like six airbags are not just premium add-ons — they are lifesaving essentials.
So, if you’re planning to buy a family car or a city-friendly hatchback that doesn’t compromise on safety, the new Ertiga and Baleno should definitely be on your list.
