For those who are yet to hear about this, both the Datsun Go and the base model Indian-produced Suzuki Swift received zero stars (out of a possible five) in the Global NCAP safety test.
According to Charl Grobler, sales and product manager at Suzuki Auto SA, the test was conducted on two different grades of the Suzuki Swift, namely, the Indian basic specification model and the Latin American export specification version.
“However, the Swift 1.2 model offered for sale in SA is the export specification version, which comes equipped with ABS and dual front airbags. Therefore, the zero safety score is not applicable to the locally available Swift model,” explained Grobler.
The Global NCAP test conducted on the export model as sold in SA resulted in a three-star rating. The Swift 1.2 also meets all SA regulations and compulsory specifications, as set out by the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS) – previously known as the SABS.
Grobler also mentioned that the ratings for the better-equipped Swift 1.4 and Swift Sport models are higher, due to more active and passive safety features. These models benefit from additional safety systems, including a total of six airbags, Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) for the ABS braking system and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP).
