The Maruti Suzuki Ciaz, once a popular name in the mid-size sedan segment, has delivered a less-than-stellar performance in the latest round of Global NCAP crash tests. With growing emphasis on vehicle safety, the 1-star rating comes as a letdown for potential buyers, especially in a segment where rivals are pushing the envelope in safety features and crash protection.
Results
The Ciaz scored just 1 star in the Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) category, collecting 20.86 points out of a possible 34. While the sedan did provide adequate protection for the head and neck of adult occupants, the same couldn’t be said for other critical areas.
Chest protection was found to be weak, and knee protection was marginal due to risks posed by hard structures under the dashboard. These concerns dragged down the overall score, leaving the car vulnerable in front-impact scenarios.
Child Safety
Interestingly, the Ciaz did somewhat better in the Child Occupant Protection (COP) tests. It earned 28.57 points out of 49. The child seats used during the tests offered decent protection in simulated crashes.
However, the final child safety rating still fell short due to the lack of key safety features such as ISOFIX anchorages and seatbelt reminders for all seats. These limitations ultimately prevented a better score, keeping the child protection rating from climbing higher.
Short Comings
So what exactly went wrong? Here’s a summary of the Ciaz’s crash test weaknesses:
- Weak chest protection in front crash tests
- Marginal knee protection due to dashboard structures
- Absence of advanced restraint systems
- No ISOFIX child seat anchors
- Missing seatbelt reminders for rear seats
All these factors contributed to the disappointing 1-star rating, which feels outdated given the safety expectations of today’s car buyers.
Comparison
Let’s compare how the Ciaz stacks up against some of its mid-size sedan competitors that have gone through the Global NCAP test process.
| Car Model | Global NCAP Rating | AOP Score | COP Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maruti Suzuki Ciaz | 1 Star | 20.86 | 28.57 |
| Honda City (Gen 5) | 4 Stars | 12.03 | 38.27 |
| Skoda Slavia | 5 Stars | 29.71 | 42.00 |
| Hyundai Verna | Not Tested | – | – |
As you can see, several newer models are pushing for higher safety scores. Maruti’s lack of structural upgrades in the Ciaz has made it fall behind, especially when safety is now one of the top concerns for buyers.
Market Impact
This poor safety result couldn’t come at a worse time. The mid-size sedan segment in India is already facing falling sales, with buyers flocking to compact SUVs and crossovers instead. Safety, once considered a bonus, is now a deal-breaker for many customers.
A 1-star rating risks damaging the Ciaz’s already weakening position in the market. For Maruti Suzuki, a brand known more for affordability than premium features, this result could impact trust—especially among urban families looking for value plus safety.
Way Forward
To stay relevant, Maruti Suzuki will need to invest in structural reinforcements and modern safety technologies for the Ciaz. This could include:
- Stronger bodyshell designs
- Standard six airbags across variants
- Electronic stability control (ESC)
- ISOFIX mounts for child seats
- Better seatbelt reminder systems
Failing to improve in these areas could make it harder for Maruti to compete in a space where safety ratings are becoming a key differentiator.
Awareness
The Global NCAP test results play a crucial role in raising awareness about real-world crash safety. More Indian customers are researching safety ratings before making a purchase. In this landscape, a low safety score can seriously affect a vehicle’s desirability, no matter how reliable or fuel-efficient it may be.
The Ciaz may still appeal to buyers looking for spacious sedans with decent mileage, but safety-conscious buyers might now think twice. The message is clear: safety can no longer be treated as an optional add-on.
While Maruti Suzuki has made great strides in other areas, the Ciaz’s Global NCAP result is a wake-up call. Customers are evolving, and carmakers must evolve with them. To stay in the race, safety can’t be compromised—no matter the price point.
FAQs
What is the safety rating of Maruti Ciaz?
It received a 1-star rating in Global NCAP crash tests.
How did Ciaz perform in child safety tests?
It scored 28.57 out of 49 in Child Occupant Protection.
Which safety features are missing in Ciaz?
It lacks ISOFIX, ESC, and has weak chest protection.
Is the Ciaz safer than the Slavia?
No, Slavia has a 5-star safety rating vs Ciaz’s 1 star.
Why did Ciaz score low in NCAP?
Due to weak chest and knee protection, and missing features.
