Maruti Suzuki has officially announced a significant safety update for two of its most popular models — the Ertiga MPV and the Baleno premium hatchback. Both vehicles will now come equipped with six airbags as standard across all variants, reinforcing Maruti’s push towards improved safety across its lineup.
This move follows the Indian government’s plan to mandate six airbags in all new passenger vehicles from October 2025, as proposed by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).
Baleno and Ertiga Price Update: What’s New
Along with the upgraded safety package, Maruti Suzuki has also revised the prices of the Baleno and Ertiga. The hike is modest and varies by variant, but it reflects the added value customers now get in terms of occupant protection.
New Baleno Prices (Ex-showroom):
- Baleno Sigma now starts at ₹6.74 lakh
- Baleno Alpha AT tops the range at ₹9.96 lakh
The Delta, Zeta, and Alpha trims — including their automatic and CNG variants — have all seen price increases of ₹3,000 to ₹4,500, depending on configuration.
New Ertiga Prices (Ex-showroom):
- Ertiga LXi (O) now starts at ₹9.09 lakh
- Ertiga ZXi AT is priced at ₹13.44 lakh
The updated prices reflect an increase of ₹13,000 to ₹19,000 across petrol, CNG, and automatic trims.
Safety Upgrades Across the Range
The big news is the inclusion of six airbags as standard on every variant of both the Ertiga and Baleno. Until now, this feature was reserved only for higher trims. This enhancement brings these Maruti cars closer to global safety expectations and provides extra protection for both front and rear occupants.
Along with the six airbags, Maruti has also made the following safety features standard:
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with EBD
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
- Seatbelt reminder for all passengers
- Rear parking sensors
These upgrades improve occupant safety in both city and highway conditions, while also helping the models meet upcoming safety norms with confidence.
Why the Change Matters
With increasing focus on road safety and crash protection, manufacturers are under pressure to raise the safety bar. Maruti Suzuki’s decision to roll out these changes ahead of regulatory deadlines reflects a proactive approach, rather than a reactive one.
Other brands like Toyota (which recently added six airbags to the Glanza) and Hyundai (with standard airbags in newer models) have also made similar moves.
Maruti now joins the growing list of brands that are building cars with higher safety ratings in mind. This shift is part of a wider industry change as Indian buyers become more aware and demand safer cars.
Ertiga: Safer MPV for Families
The Ertiga, often chosen by families and fleet operators, becomes even more appealing with this update. With six airbags and ESC standard, long drives with family will now come with added peace of mind. The minor price hike is well justified considering the safety gains.
Its availability in CNG and petrol, along with manual and automatic gearboxes, ensures that the Ertiga continues to be a versatile and affordable 7-seater.
Baleno: Premium Hatchback Gets Safer
The Baleno is one of Maruti’s best-selling premium hatchbacks under the Nexa brand. With stylish looks, a feature-rich cabin, and efficient petrol and CNG engines, the Baleno already ticked most boxes.
With the inclusion of six airbags, the Baleno becomes even more competitive in its segment. It now goes head-to-head with rivals like:
- Hyundai i20
- Toyota Glanza
- Tata Altroz
- Honda Jazz (discontinued)
Among these, the Baleno now stands out with its value-for-money pricing, wide variant options, and improved safety credentials.
A Step Towards Safer Roads
Maruti Suzuki’s safety update isn’t just about ticking boxes. It signals a larger shift in how car buyers are valuing safety as a key purchase factor, and how manufacturers are starting to respond.
As the industry gets ready for October 2025 — when six airbags will become mandatory in all new cars — early adopters like Maruti are setting a strong example. This change also helps improve public trust in the brand, which has often been criticized for offering fewer safety features in base trims.
FAQs
Are six airbags now standard in all Baleno and Ertiga variants?
Yes, Maruti Suzuki has made six airbags standard across all variants of both models.
When did the new pricing take effect?
The price revision came into effect from July 16, 2025.
How much did the prices increase?
The Baleno saw a price hike of 0.5%, while the Ertiga’s prices went up by around 1.4%.
What other safety features are now standard?
Along with six airbags, ESC, ABS with EBD, and ISOFIX child seat mounts are now standard.
Why is Maruti updating safety features now?
These updates are in response to the upcoming government mandate that will require all new passenger cars sold in India to have six airbags by October 2025.