Maruti Baleno (2-star NCAP) Crushed Under Truck, All Occupants SAFE

Maruti Baleno is one of the best-selling hatchbacks in the country today. It is loved for the way it looks, the roomy interior it offers, and the affordable price tag it comes for.  However, the Baleno is often criticized for its poor 2-star crash test rating. But, we would tell you that the crash test rating comprises of a few more things than just the shock-absorbing capacity of the car’s frame or chassis. Thus, a car with a poor safety rating will not always be a bad performer in a mishap. To back our statement up, here’s a picture of Baleno that got crushed under a loaded truck, yet all four of its occupants walked out of the car safe and sound.

In the pictures above, it can be seen that the Baleno is crushed under a truck, which was carrying pipes. As a result, serious deformation on the car can also be seen. Critical parts of the structure, such as pillars, doors, and the roof collapsed in the mishap. The accident took place around Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh. And, a total of 4 occupants were travelling in the car while the accident took place. However, not much is known about how it happened, but the occupants could walk out of the car with only minor injuries.

This situation proves that a car with a poor crash-test rating can sustain the effects of a major impulsive load. Also, the numerous passive or active safety equipment increases the overall score of the car to attain a higher crash test rating, however, in the real-world conditions, the scenario is a lot different than the artificial surroundings used at the testbed.

Talking of the safety equipment, the Baleno comes standard with dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, front seat belts alarm, high-speed alerts, seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters, ISOFIX child seat mounts, and rear parking sensors. However, the top-spec trims also get the additional safety aid of auto-dimming IRVM, reverse parking camera, rear washer and wiper, rear defogger, and automatic headlamps. With a starting price of Rs. 5.63 lakh, Baleno rivals the likes of Hyundai Elite i20, Tata Altroz and more.