The latest Renault Kwid with strengthened body shell and a driver-side airbag has failed to pull out any significant improvements in occupant's safety as per Global NCAP's latest crash test. The car's structure has been rated unstable once again, with the testing agency awarding 1/5 star rating for both Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) and Child Occupant Protection (COP). Earlier, the pre-improvements version of the Kwid was given zero rating for the same.
The Global NCAP observed that the structural reinforcements have been made on the driver side only and not the passenger side. In spite of a single airbag and seat belt pretensioner, the crash test dummy on the driver side suffered high chest deflection, while the passenger’s knees are impacted by the collapsed structures of the dashboard. Nevertheless, the agency's report card says that the airbag has enhanced the protection offered to the driver's head and neck. The crash test was carried out at a speed of 64 kmph.
Also Read: Renault Kwid 1.0L RXT (O): Should You Buy Or Not?
Also Read: Renault Kwid 1.0L RXT (O): Should You Buy Or Not?
Renault has made the above said safety improvements in the Kwid models produced from the month of May, including the newly launched 1.0-litre variant as well. The Kwid line-up in India now includes a new RXT (O) trim in both 800cc and 1.0-litre ranges, with an additional cost of Rs. 12,000 to the standard RXT trim. The option package consists of a driver-side airbag, front seat belt pre-tensioners and load limiters.
The Global NCAP, under its #safercarsforindia campaign, also tested the locally assembled Honda Mobilio and has awarded a modest 3-star rating for the variants with dual airbags. The base trim Mobilio with no airbag gets zero rating.