Global NCAP has shared the results of its most recent set of crash tests. And if you’re an owner of a Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 or Wagon R, you’ll be concerned. But, if you’re an owner of a Volkswagen Virtus or a Skoda Slavia, you’ll be overjoyed.
In terms of adult occupant protection and child occupant protection, the Volkswagen Virtus/Skoda Slavia received a five-star rating in Global NCAP’s upgraded crash test regulations. The Maruti Suzuki Wagon R received one star for adult occupant protection and zero stars for child occupant protection. The Alto K10 received two stars for adult occupant protection and zero stars for child occupant protection.
Towards Zero Foundation President David Ward stated, ‘Another strong performance from VW/Škoda but Maruti Suzuki fall well short again on safety performance for some of the most popular cars sold in India.’
Furthermore, he said, ‘With Bharat NCAP set to launch soon, we challenge Maruti Suzuki to catch up with the other leading domestic manufacturers as well as VW/Škoda and demonstrate their commitment to road safety and customer protection.’
The updated crash test protocols from Global NCAP include assessments of frontal and side impact protection for all tested models, as well as Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and pedestrian protection. Side impact pole protection tests are also necessary for vehicles with the highest star ratings. Let’s hope that manufacturers put more emphasis on safety first!
