New Delhi: Maruti’s safety record has once again raised eyebrows, with the Suzuki Swift failing the Latin NCAP crash test. The made-in-India car scored zero star.
It received 6.21 points for Adult Occupant Protection, 0 for Child Occupant Protection, 31.71 for Pedestrian and Vulnerable Road Users protection and 3 points for its safety systems.
While it was found that the Swift offered good protection to the head and neck of front-seat occupants, chest and knee protections were comparatively poor. Similar results were seen in the side impact test as well.
The car had 2 airbags and seat belt reminder for driver.
Latin NCAP also tested the Renault/Dacia Duster, with the mini-SUV scoring a disappointing zero star as well.
“It is disappointing and upsetting such poor safety performances offered by Renault and Suzuki to Latin American consumers. Latin NCAP calls and encourages Renault and Suzuki to dramatically improve these models standard safety very soon. Latin American consumers are forced to pay more than the basic price to get to the same safety specs that Renault/Dacia and Suzuki offer as standard in markets like Europe and in some cases they are not even available in Latin America and the Caribbean,” said Latin NCAP Secretary General Alejandro Furas Basic.
“Vehicle safety, which is standard in mature economies markets, is a right that Latin American consumers should claim without having to pay extra for them. These safety features act like vaccines for one of the most severe pandemics like road traffic injuries and fatalities. Consumers have the right to receive the same vaccine supplied anywhere else without having to pay more for it,” he added.
However, it is important to note that the sold-in-India Swift received 2 stars out of 5 in the Global-NCAP crash test.
