In the ever-evolving landscape of automotive safety, the Global New Car Assessment Programme (Global NCAP) has implemented a new crash test protocol to evaluate vehicles comprehensively. Under this stringent protocol, a vehicle can achieve a coveted 5-star rating only if it meets specific criteria in various safety aspects, including adult occupant protection, side impact, pedestrian protection, and seat belt reminders. Over the past year, Global NCAP has evaluated ten made-in-India models, providing valuable insights into their safety performance.
1. Volkswagen Virtus/Skoda Slavia – 29.71 points (5 stars)
Leading the pack, the Volkswagen Virtus and Skoda Slavia have earned a remarkable 5-star safety rating. These midsize sedans excelled in adult occupant protection, scoring 29.71 points out of a possible 34. Their side impact test performance with a deformable barrier received high marks, and they also achieved an ‘OK’ rating in the side pole impact tests. Notably, both sedans met the stringent UN 127 and GTR9 pedestrian safety norms.
In child occupant protection, the Virtus and Slavia scored an impressive 42 points out of 49, securing another 5-star rating. Additionally, Global NCAP commended their stable bodyshells and footwell areas, which demonstrated the capability to withstand further loadings. Standard safety features include dual airbags, ESC, traction control, and ISOFIX child seat mounts.
2. Volkswagen Taigun/Skoda Kushaq – 29.64 points (5 stars)
Built on the same platform, the Volkswagen Taigun and Skoda Kushaq performed exceptionally well, achieving a 5-star safety rating with 29.64 points in adult occupant protection. These midsize SUVs showcased robust safety measures with a two-airbag configuration, and they received an ‘OK’ rating in the side pole impact tests. Both SUVs met UN 127 pedestrian safety norms.
In child occupant protection, they scored an impressive 42 points out of 49, securing another 5-star rating. Global NCAP also rated their bodyshells as stable and capable of withstanding further loadings. Standard safety kit includes dual airbags, ESC, traction control, and ISOFIX child seat mounts.
3. Mahindra Scorpio N – 29.25 points (5 stars)
Mahindra’s Scorpio N SUV made a strong statement with a 5-star safety rating. In adult occupant protection tests, it scored 29.25 points out of 34, displaying remarkable safety performance. The side impact test with a deformable barrier yielded a score of 16 out of 17, earning high marks. In child occupant protection, the Scorpio N secured a 3-star rating with 28.93 points out of 49.
Global NCAP praised the Scorpio N’s stable bodyshell and footwell area, capable of withstanding additional loadings. Standard safety features in the Scorpio N include dual airbags, seatbelt reminders, and ESC (optional on specific trims).
4. Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 – 21.67 points (2 stars)
Despite its smaller size, the Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 demonstrated noteworthy safety, earning a 2-star safety rating. In adult occupant protection, it scored 21.67 points out of 34, showcasing its commitment to safety. The side deformable barrier test yielded a commendable score of 12.4 out of 17.
In child occupant protection, the Alto K10 scored 3.52 points out of 49, resulting in a 0-star rating. While the bodyshell was stable, the footwell area was rated unstable. Standard safety features include dual airbags and seat belt reminders.
5. Maruti Suzuki S Presso – 20.03 points (1 star)
Maruti’s S Presso secured a 1-star safety rating, scoring 20.03 points out of a possible 34 in adult occupant protection. Although it performed well in the side deformable barrier test, scoring 11.9 out of 17, it did not undergo the side pole impact test due to the absence of side head protection.
For child occupant protection, it scored a mere 3.52 points out of 49, resulting in a 0-star rating. Global NCAP noted instability in the S Presso’s bodyshell. Standard safety features include dual airbags and seat belt reminders, with ESC reserved for specific variants.
6. Maruti Suzuki Wagon R – 19.69 points (1 star)
The Maruti Suzuki Wagon R achieved a 1-star safety rating with 19.69 points out of 34 in adult occupant protection. While it performed well in the side deformable barrier test, it did not undergo the side pole impact test due to the absence of curtain airbags.
In child occupant protection, the Wagon R scored just 3.40 points out of 49, resulting in a 0-star rating. Global NCAP also noted instability in the Wagon R’s bodyshell. Standard safety equipment includes dual airbags, ESC (not standard at the time of testing), and seat belt reminders.
7. Maruti Suzuki Swift – 19.19 points (1 star)
The Maruti Suzuki Swift received a 1-star safety rating, scoring 19.19 points out of a possible 34 in adult occupant protection. Its performance in the side deformable barrier test earned a score of 12.9 out of 17.
In child occupant protection, the Swift scored 16.68 points out of a possible 49, resulting in a 0-star rating. Global NCAP noted instability in both the footwell area and bodyshell. Standard safety features include dual airbags, ESC (not standard at the time of testing), and ISOFIX mounting points for child seats.
8. Maruti Suzuki Ignis – 16.48 points (1 star)
The Maruti Suzuki Ignis received a 1-star safety rating with 16.48 points in adult occupant protection. It scored 6.91 points out of 17 in the side impact tests with a deformable barrier. However, the side pole impact test was not conducted due to the absence of side head protection.
In child occupant protection, the Ignis scored a low 3.86 points out of 49, resulting in a 0-star rating. The Ignis’s body shell was rated as unstable and incapable of withstanding further loadings. Standard safety features on the Ignis include dual airbags, ESC, and ISOFIX child seat mounts.
Conclusion
As the automotive industry progresses towards enhanced safety standards, the Global NCAP crash test protocol serves as a crucial benchmark for evaluating vehicle safety. While some made-in-India models have excelled in these tests, others have room for improvement. It is essential for manufacturers to prioritize safety features and design to ensure the well-being of both adult and child occupants.
Consumers should consider these safety ratings when making purchasing decisions, as safer vehicles contribute significantly to reducing road fatalities and injuries. As manufacturers continue to innovate and implement advanced safety technologies, we can anticipate even higher safety standards in the Indian automotive market.
Read More:
