The Citroën C3 Aircross received zero stars in the Latin NCAP crash test: what went wrong?

Citroën has once again been in the spotlight for failing crash test results. The C3 Aircross compact crossover, which costs around $20,000, received zero stars in Latin NCAP tests. At this point, it's worth remembering Suzuki's recent example, which proves that even budget cars can be safe. Manufactured in India, the Maruti Suzuki Dzire sedan with a starting price of $8,000 received five stars in Global NCAP tests.

Reasons for the failure of the Brazilian Citroën C3 Aircross

The answer is simple - a minimal set of safety systems. The Brazilian version of the C3 Aircross has just two standard airbags. At the same time, the Indian market version of the model has six airbags by default.

Crash tests have shown that:

• Driver chest protection in frontal impact is weak
• Adult neck protection against whiplash injuries - poor
• Side impact caused significant displacement of body components into the passenger compartment

Latin NCAP rated the model's safety performance as follows:

• Adult protection - 33%
• Child protection - 11%
• Protection of pedestrians and vulnerable road users - 50%
• Safety assistance systems - 35%

Citroën clearly has some work to do, because in a market where safety is becoming a crucial factor, this policy could cost them the trust of their customers.

Source: Latin NCAP