The result of the latest Global NCAP crash tests of Made-in-India cars was recently revealed by the safety agency. It includes two models from Maruti Suzuki (WagonR and Alto K10) and one from Volkswagen and one from Skoda. While the Marutis have fared poorly, the Volkswagen Virtus and Skoda Slavia midsize sedans scored 5 star safety rating. The Slavia and Virtus managed to achieve 29.71 points out of 34 points in adult occupant protection and 42 points out of 49 points in child occupant protection.
Global NCAP – Adult Occupant Protection
Both sedans provided good head and neck protection to the driver and passenger. The chest protection, however, rated as adequate. In the side impact test, the cars scored 14.2 points out of a maximum 17 points and offered adequate protection. The side pole impact test results were ‘Ok’ and the chest protection was marginal. The safety agency rated their bodyshell and footwell area as stable, and capable of withstanding further loadings.
Global NCAP – Child Occupant Protection
The Volkswagen Virtus and Skoda Slavia achieved full 12 points for the CRS (Child Restraint System) installation and 24 points in the dynamic score. Both 3-year old and 18-month old child dummies (with seats facing rearward) remained protected in the frontal crash test. The models also provided full side impact protection.
The Skoda Slavia offers dual airbags, ABS (antilock braking system) with EBD (electronic brakeforce distribution), electronic stability control with traction control, rear parking sensors, multi collision braking and tyre pressure monitoring system as standard safety features. The Volkswagen Virtus has the same setup of fitments including ABS with EBD, dual airbags, ESC, electronic differential lock, TPMS, rear parking sensors and rear defogger.
Both sedans are available with the 1.5L TSI turbo petrol and 1.0L TSI petrol engines, making 115bhp with 175Nm and 150bhp respectively. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed torque convertor automatic, a CVT automatic and a 7-speed DCT automatic unit.
