Datsun RediGo scores 1-star NCAP safety rating

The Global NCAP has released 2019's first round of 'Safer Cars For India' crash test results. Here's a look at how the Datsun RediGo fared in the test.

We're afraid the news isn't good for the RediGo, as it has only scored a 1-star safety rating in GNCAP's crash test. However, GNCAP conducted the test on an older version of the RediGo. In July 2019, Datsun had launched an updated version of the RediGo equipped with the mandatory safety kit (Vehicle Dynamic Control, Speed Alert System, & Seat Belt Reminder).

Coming back to the test results, the 1-star rating translates into a single star for adult occupant protection (8.36 out of a possible 17 points) and two stars for child occupant protection (15.63 out of a possible 49 points). Despite offering a front driver's airbag (the RediGo offers a single airbag as standard), the chest & head protection for the driver were rated as poor & adequate, respectively. An 'unstable' footwell further brought down the driver's protection score. In comparison, protection levels for the front passenger were marginally better, with the head & lower leg protection rated as good. However, as per the NCAP guidelines, poor protection for any of the critical body regions, in this case, the driver's chest, limits the star rating to one for the adults.

In terms of child protection too, the RediGo failed to impress. The forward-facing child seat for a 3-year-old dummy did not prevent excessive forward movement during the impact, resulting in poor head protection. Further, the static rear 3-point belts created difficulties in the proper and safe installation of the Child Restraint System (CRS) for an 18-month-old dummy. Due to head contact with the front seat for the 18-month-old dummy, along with the missing ISOFIX anchorage points, the Datsun RediGo could only manage two stars for child occupant protection.

In other news, Nissan is reportedly mulling over the idea to axe the Datsun brand entirely, as part of its restructuring goals. However, Nissan is yet to share an official statement on the matter.

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