• No Euro NCAP crash test score
• Decent amount of standard safety kit
• More available on higher trim

It’s far too early for a Euro NCAP crash testing result at this point, but the initial signs are that the Baleno will perform well thanks to a strong structure and competitive safety equipment when compared to rivals.

There’s a decent amount of standard kit, with more set to be available on high-spec cars. All Balenos get six airbags, stability control and a bodyshell which has been designed to perform well during impacts both with other vehicles and with pedestrians. Bluetooth connectivity for the multimedia system and a reversing camera will also be part of the base-spec line-up.

Top-spec cars get more safety kit

Top-of-the-range cars will also get Radar Brake Support (RBS) which uses radar to detect vehicles directly in front. It can then tell the car to do one of three things: alert the driver of an impending collision, increase braking force if the car detects the necessity, and finally automatically applies the brakes to stop the car.

The radar system also enables an adaptive cruise control programme, which we tested on the motorway and found smooth and simple to use with the controls on the steering wheel.

• Boot among class leaders
• High loading lip
• Excellent rear headroom

While it doesn’t have some of the features which make its rivals such a compellingly pragmatic decision – such as the Honda Jazz’s Magic Seats or the Nissan Note’s sliding rear bench – again we came away impressed with the Suzuki Baleno’s practicality. The 355-litre boot makes its load space one of the biggest in this class of car, though we thought the loading lip looked high enough to make heavy shopping bags an effort to install.

Rear seat passengers will be pleased with the amount of head space and legroom on offer – this is a car that is easily big enough for four adults to travel in comfort.