Today’s topic of detailed discussion is the Maruti WagonR safety rating at the Global NCAP. We know that the popular hatchback was tested by the safety watchdog last year (2023). Unfortunately, the WagonR scored an utterly disappointing 1 star in the Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) category and an even worse 0 star in the Child Occupant Protection (COP) segment. That is even more concerning considering the fact that it is among the highest-selling vehicles in India ever. Its demand is still at the highest. Let us delve deep into the specifics of the Global NCAP score.
Maruti WagonR Safety Rating at Global NCAP – Adult Safety
In this section, the WagonR was able to secure 19.69 points out of 34. That is abysmal on any scale. The hatchback offered dual airbags, front seat belt pre-tensioners, front seat belt reminders and front seat belt load limiter as standard. However, it didn’t offer Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and didn’t even follow the GTR 9 – UN 127 Pedestrian protection norms. In the Frontal Offset Deformable Barrier Test, it received 6.7 points while it got 13 points for the Side Movable Deformable Barrier Test. Note that it didn’t undergo the Side Pole Impact Test since the WagonR doesn’t get side airbags.
In the Frontal Impact Test, the driver’s head showed adequate protection, while the neck displayed good protection. However, the driver’s neck demonstrated weak protection and the knees showed marginal protection as they can impact with dangerous structures behind the fascia. Also, driver’s tibias offered adequate protection. WagonR’s footwell area was rated as unstable, and the bodyshell was rated as unstable and not capable of withstanding further loadings. In the Side Impact Test, the head, abdomen and pelvis protection was good while chest protection was marginal.
For the passenger in the frontal impact test, the head and neck showed good protection. Additionally, the chest displayed adequate protection and the knee offered marginal protection due to the same reason as was the case with the driver. Furthermore, the passenger’s tibias was able to offer good protection. All these factors contributed towards the 1-star safety rating for the Maruti WagonR at the Global NCAP test.
Child Safety
Maruti WagonR Safety Rating suffered terribly at the Child Occupant Protection test, where it got a terrible 0-star rating. In the Dynamic Score, it received 0 points out of 24, in the CRS Installation Score, it got just 3.40 points out of 12 and in the Vehicle Assessment Score, the hatchback secured 0 points out of 13. This takes the total to just 3.40 points out of 49. Note that the WagonR didn’t offer ISOFIX Child Seat Anchorages, an airbag cut-off switch or an integrated CRS. Hence, the rearward-facing seat for the 18-month-old child was installed using Britax Roemer Baby Safe. Similarly, the forward-facing seat for the 3-year-old child used the Britax Roemer Duo Plus.
In the frontal impact test, the child seat for the 3-year-old was not able to prevent excessive forward movement during the impact. This exposed the head to a high risk of injuries. On the other hand, the child seat for the 18-month-old showed a high risk for the head and weak protection to the chest. Since the Maruti WagonR doesn’t offer 3-point seatbelts for all seating positions, the vehicle-based assessment section got 0 points. Maruti declined to recommend CRS which is why it got 0 points in the dynamic score category too. All in all, the COP aspect of the Maruti WagonR safety rating at the Global NCAP got no stars.
Maruti WagonR Safety Features
Maruti WagonR might be among the oldest cars in the portfolio but the largest carmaker in the country ensures that it updates it from time to time. As a result, in the latest iteration, the WagonR boasts some pretty handy safety equipment. That is necessary since customers have become safety-conscious these days. The top amenities include:
- Dual Airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Front Seatbelt Pre-Tensioners
- Front Seatbelt Reminders with Buzzer
- Security Alarm
- Rear Parking Sensors
- Hill Hold Assist (AGS)
- Speed Sensitive Auto Door Lock
Specs
Maruti WagonR comes with two powertrains – a 1.2-litre 4-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol and a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine. These generate 90 PS / 113 Nm and 67 PS / 89 Nm of peak power and torque, respectively. Note that the latter can also be had with a CNG alternative which produces 56 PS and 82 Nm. The buyers can opt for either a 5-speed manual or an AMT gearbox. The mileage figure in the most frugal configuration is an impressive 25.19 kmpl. Its prices range from Rs 5.54 lakh to Rs 7.38 lakh, ex-showroom.
| Specs | Maruti WagonR |
| Engine | 1.2L (P) / 1.0L (P) / 1.0L (CNG) |
| Power | 90 PS / 67 PS / 56 PS |
| Torque | 113 Nm / 89 Nm / 82 Nm |
| Transmission | 5MT / AMT |
| Mileage | 23.56 kmpl (MT) / 24.43 kmpl (AMT) / 34.05 km/kg (CNG) |
| Boot Space | 341 L |
Our View
Maruti Suzuki has never had a great image when it comes to NCAP scores and safety ratings. However, in recent times, the carmaker has worked on making its products a bit better in terms of safety equipment and build quality. In fact, we see most cars with 6 airbags, at least in top trims. WagonR is a budget hatchback which is why the safety, unfortunately, takes the back seat. Still, it must be mentioned that safety ratings mean nothing if you don’t drive safely. Following traffic regulations is the best way to ensure your safety and the safety of everyone around. Let us pledge to be responsible drivers and promote safe driving and road safety.
FAQs
What is the Global NCAP score of Maruti WagonR?
Maruti WagonR has a 1-star safety rating at the Global NCAP.
What are the top safety features of Maruti WagonR?
Maruti WagonR comes with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP, Reverse Parking Sensors, Front Seatbelt Pre-Tensioners, etc.
Has Maruti WagonR been tested at Bharat NCAP?
No. Maruti WagonR was tested at Global NCAP in 2023.
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