The latest round of Global NCAP crash tests has exposed the Maruti Suzuki Wagon R’s poor safety performance, with the car scoring just 1 star for adult crash rating and 0 stars for child safety. Compared to the previous 2019 test, Wagon R’s scores have significantly dropped, largely due to the more stringent testing parameters applied in 2023.
In the adult safety test, the Wagon R scored only 19.69 out of 34.00 points, with a score of 6.7 points in the frontal offset deformable barrier test and 13 points in the side movable deformable barrier test. The lack of curtain airbags and only two front airbags meant that no side pole impact test was conducted.
The driver’s chest and knees were offered only weak and marginal protection, respectively, with the knees possibly coming into contact with dangerous structures behind the dashboard. The passenger’s side fared slightly better, with adequate chest protection and good head and neck protection. However, the footwell and bodyshell were deemed unstable and unable to withstand further loadings. Additionally, the Wagon R lacks Electronic Stability Control and does not comply with GTR9 or UN127 pedestrian safety norms.
Regarding child safety, the Wagon R did not fare any better, with the absence of ISOFIX child mounts and the non-recommendation of a CRS in the car. The lack of an option to disable the front passenger airbag for a rear-facing child restraint system and the absence of three-point seatbelts for all seating positions also pose significant risks to children’s safety. The tests revealed a high risk of injuries for children in both front and rear-facing positions.
David Ward, President of the Towards Zero Foundation, expressed disappointment with Maruti Suzuki’s safety performance, stating that the carmaker fell short yet again in producing safer cars for India’s market. With the Wagon R selling more units than Toyota’s entire sales in February 2023, this issue highlights the need for manufacturers to prioritize safety in their vehicles.
India’s road safety record shows over 1.2 lakh deaths from road-related accidents in 2020, translating to a death every four and a half minutes. Therefore, it is essential to remain vigilant and practice safe driving habits regardless of the vehicle you drive.
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