Safety Concerns Maruti Cars Receive Low Crash Test Ratings

The very name Maruti Suzuki spells out success on Indian roads. Among their stalwart lineup, the WagonR has just completed 25 years of existence. But it does not speak well of Maruti Suzuki that a sizeable section of Maruti cars – including the WagonR – have fared very badly in Global NCAP safety tests.

Disheartening Trend

The Global NCAP, an independent car safety assessment program, has given a very poor 1-star safety rating to several popular Maruti models. These include the Ertiga, a popular 7-seater, the entry-level Ignis, the compact S-Presso, and, most notably, the WagonR itself. These ratings highlight a critical gap between consumer demand and vehicle safety.

Safety Compromises

In comparison, the Ertiga, despite its spacious and practical nature, scored poorly in adult occupant protection with a score of just 23.63 out of 34 and child occupant protection with a worrying 19.40 out of 49 points. The Ignis also did not fare well under either the adult or child occupant protection tests; it is known for quirky design. The S-Presso, which claims to be a budget-friendly mini-SUV, also has not done well in safety, scoring a 1-star rating in both adult and child occupant protection tests.

The WagonR’s Safety Concerns

The WagonR is another old-timer that has been in the Indian car buyer’s heart for long. However, it too has failed the safety tests with a meager 1-star rating. It raises serious questions about the safety offered to passengers in case of an accident. This is especially disturbing since it is so popular and has so many families using it for daily transportation.

A Call for Action

These findings should serve as a wake-up call for both Maruti Suzuki and Indian consumers. While affordability is a crucial factor for many car buyers, safety should never be compromised. Maruti Suzuki needs to prioritize vehicle safety enhancements across its entire model lineup. This includes incorporating stronger structural designs, advanced safety features like airbags and electronic stability control as standard, and adhering to stricter safety regulations. The onus, then, falls upon the consumers. They have to become increasingly aware of safety ratings regarding vehicles and focus on their safety when choosing to buy cars. Choosing safer vehicles can reduce the number of injury and fatality risks if an accident occurs, although at a slightly increased cost.

Disclaimer: This article is based on information available from publicly accessible sources, including Global NCAP reports. The information is provided for informational purposes only and is not a financial or investment advice.

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