Global NCAP Rating for Maruti Suzuki WagonR

The Global New Car Assessment Programme (Global NCAP) is an internationally recognised body that evaluates vehicle safety through rigorous crash tests. Funded by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), Global NCAP uses standardised parameters to assess how well a car can protect its occupants in the event of a collision.

The program began in 1978 with the launch of the New Car Assessment Programme, which aimed to provide consumers with transparent safety information. Over the years, regions like Japan, Europe and Latin America adopted similar testing protocols. In 2011, Global NCAP was formed to unify these efforts and extend vehicle crash testing to emerging markets.

Since 2014, Global NCAP has been testing cars in India, primarily focusing on frontal crash performance. By February 2022, 50 passenger vehicles had been evaluated. The main test is a front-offset crash, simulating a collision between two cars of equal weight at 50 km/h. In this test, 40% of the car’s front end crashes into a deformable barrier at 64 km/h, assessing both structural integrity and safety features.

NCAP ratings range from zero to five stars. A zero-star rating indicates poor safety, with a high risk of injury to passengers during a crash. In contrast, a five-star rating means the vehicle offers excellent protection, significantly reducing the risk of injury in a collision.

The Global New Car Assessment Programme (Global NCAP) is an internationally recognised body that evaluates vehicle safety through rigorous crash tests. Funded by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), Global NCAP uses standardised parameters to assess how well a car can protect its occupants in the event of a collision.

The program began in 1978 with the launch of the New Car Assessment Programme, which aimed to provide consumers with transparent safety information. Over the years, regions like Japan, Europe and Latin America adopted similar testing protocols. In 2011, Global NCAP was formed to unify these efforts and extend vehicle crash testing to emerging markets.

Since 2014, Global NCAP has been testing cars in India, primarily focusing on frontal crash performance. By February 2022, 50 passenger vehicles had been evaluated. The main test is a front-offset crash, simulating a collision between two cars of equal weight at 50 km/h. In this test, 40% of the car’s front end crashes into a deformable barrier at 64 km/h, assessing both structural integrity and safety features.

NCAP ratings range from zero to five stars. A zero-star rating indicates poor safety, with a high risk of injury to passengers during a crash. In contrast, a five-star rating means the vehicle offers excellent protection, significantly reducing the risk of injury in a collision.

The Maruti Suzuki WagonR, a widely popular choice in India for its affordability and utility, has recently undergone stringent Global NCAP crash tests. Unfortunately, while the WagonR shines in practicality, its safety performance has raised concerns.

In the latest evaluations, the WagonR global NCAP rating received a disappointing 1-star rating for adult occupant protection, scoring 19.69 out of 34 points.

Even more troubling is its 0-star rating for child occupant protection, with a meagre score of 3.40 out of 49 points. These results highlight the critical need for Maruti Suzuki to enhance the safety features of this beloved hatchback.

Despite the WagonR’s shift to the ‘Heartect’ platform, which was expected to improve safety, the results suggest that more robust measures are necessary. The structural integrity of the vehicle has been deemed unstable, and the footwell area was also rated as unstable. This instability compromises the overall WagonR crash test rating and protection offered by the vehicle, raising concerns about its ability to safeguard passengers in the event of a collision.

-Adult Protection Score

The WagonR scored 19.69 out of 34 in adult occupant protection, earning a 1-star rating. The test revealed that the structure of the car is unstable and incapable of withstanding higher impact forces, which significantly affects the safety of adult passengers.

Additionally, the lack of essential safety features like electronic stability control (ESC), which prevents skidding and enhances vehicle control, further worsens WagonR’s safety score in adult protection.

-Child Protection Score

The WagonR fared worse in child safety, with a 0-star rating and a score of just 3.40 out of 49. The vehicle lacks ISOFIX anchorages and top tether points, which are essential for securely attaching child seats. The absence of 3-point seat belts in all seating positions also contributed to the poor rating.

Tests indicated that 1.5-year-old and 3-year-old children are at high risk of head injury, making the WagonR an unsafe option for families with young children.

-Motorcyclist Safety Score

The motorcyclist and pedestrian safety score further reflect the WagonR's lack of protective measures. The vehicle does not comply with UN127 and GTR9 pedestrian norms, failing to offer sufficient protection for vulnerable road users, such as motorcyclists and pedestrians.

Without features designed to minimise the impact on these individuals, the WagonR places motorcyclists at significant risk in potential collisions.

The Maruti Suzuki WagonR is built on Suzuki’s advanced HEARTECT chassis platform, designed to enhance structural rigidity and minimise deformation during a collision. This lightweight yet strong platform plays a crucial role in improving the overall safety of the vehicle.

Alongside this innovative design, the WagonR is equipped with several key safety features aimed at ensuring a safer driving experience.

Here is a detailed breakdown of the WagonR’s safety features:

Along with its affordability, the WagonR offers a range of specifications and features that make it ideal for urban commuting as well as long drives. Whether you are looking for a compact hatchback with good mileage or advanced features for a comfortable ride, the WagonR provides a balanced package.

Here is a detailed look at the key specifications of the Maruti Suzuki WagonR:

In addition to these specifications, the WagonR is equipped with modern features that enhance the driving experience. Here are some of the key features:

• Power Steering

• Power Windows (Front)

• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

• Air Conditioner

• Driver & Passenger Airbags

• Alloy Wheels

• Multi-function Steering Wheel

• Wheel Covers

To ensure complete protection for your Maruti Suzuki WagonR, it is essential to invest in the right car insurance policy. With TATA AIG’s Maruti Suzuki WagonR Car Insurance, you get comprehensive coverage that safeguards your car against unforeseen incidents such as accidents, theft, natural calamities and third-party liabilities.

TATA AIG’s car insurance policy is designed to meet the specific needs of WagonR owners. It offers a range of benefits and extensive coverage. Whether you want a third-party car insurance policy or a comprehensive plan, TATA AIG has you covered.

The comprehensive policy includes personal accident cover, damage protection for your vehicle and coverage for third-party liabilities, ensuring you are financially protected in any situation.

One of the standout features of TATA AIG’s car insurance is the option to customise your policy with add-on covers. These include zero depreciation cover, engine protection, roadside assistance and return-to-invoice cover, which enhances the overall value of your policy. With these add-ons, you can be assured that your WagonR is protected in various scenarios.

Moreover, TATA AIG makes the car insurance purchase and renewal process hassle-free with a simple online procedure, quick claims settlement and a robust network of cashless garages across India. In case of an emergency, their 24/7 customer support ensures timely assistance. Choose TATA AIG today and drive confidently, knowing your WagonR is in safe hands!

What standard safety features does the Maruti Suzuki WagonR include?

The Maruti Suzuki WagonR comes equipped with essential standard safety features, including dual airbags, rear parking sensors and an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD). These features are available across all variants of the vehicle, ensuring a consistent level of safety for all drivers and passengers.

What was the Global NCAP child safety rating for the 2019 Maruti Suzuki WagonR?

In the Global NCAP assessments, the 2019 Maruti Suzuki WagonR received a two-star rating for child occupant protection, scoring 16.33 out of 49 points. This rating highlights the need for improvements in child safety features.

What is the fuel tank capacity of the Maruti WagonR?

The Maruti WagonR's fuel tank capacity is 32 litres, providing ample range for both city driving and longer journeys.

Does the Maruti WagonR come with cruise control?

No, the Maruti WagonR does not feature cruise control in any of its variants.