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Maruti Suzuki hikes prices of Ertiga, Baleno due to THIS reason

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Maruti Suzuki Price Hike: Maruti Suzuki Ltd. on Wednesday announced a price hike for its popular models, the Ertiga and Baleno, following the standardisation of six airbags in both vehicles. The new prices will come into effect from July 16, according to the company's exchange filing.After the revision, the Ertiga's ex-showroom prices will increase by an average of 1–4%, while the Baleno will see a more modest hike of 0.5%.The move follows the Indian government’s focus on improving passenger safety. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has been pushing for mandatory six airbags in all M1 category passenger vehicles. While dual front airbags became compulsory in 2019 and 2021 for driver and co-driver respectively, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has repeatedly urged carmakers to implement six airbags across all variants, particularly in mass-market vehicles.The Ertiga, a widely preferred MPV, is currently priced between Rs 8.97 lakh and Rs 13.25 lakh. The Baleno, a premium hatchback, is available from Rs 6.7 lakh to Rs 9.92 lakh. With the updated safety features, both models will offer improved occupant protection, albeit at a slightly higher cost.This marks the fifth price increase by Maruti Suzuki in 2025. Earlier in April, the company raised prices across various models citing higher input costs, regulatory changes, and added features.In addition to Ertiga and Baleno, the company had also increased prices in April for models like the Grand Vitara (by up to Rs 62,000), Eeco (up to Rs 22,500), and Wagon-R (up to Rs 14,000). The XL6 and Ertiga became costlier by up to Rs 12,500, while smaller hikes of Rs 3,000 and Rs 2,500 were applied to the Dzire Tour S and Fronx respectively.