Maruti Suzuki’s latest 4th generation Swift and its sedan counterpart, the Dzire, are targeting high scores in the Global NCAP crash tests. The revamped ‘Heartect’ platform aligns more closely with the structure used in Suzuki models in Japan and Western Europe. This update represents Maruti Suzuki’s effort to address a decade-long criticism of inferior build quality in India. According to Acko Drive, the company aims to achieve similar benchmarks for both cars, as they share most parts and some body panels. Notably, the new Swift launch marks the introduction of standard stability control (ESC/ESP) and six airbags across all variants.
Until now, only the Invicto and Jimny models featured such safety measures. The Swift’s inclusion of these features makes it the first in Maruti Suzuki’s Arena retail channel to do so. The Dzire, set to launch later this year, is expected to offer similar safety features, although a taxi/fleet-only model with different specifications may be introduced. Standard features for both models include three-point seatbelts for all passengers, ISOFIX child seat anchors, hill-hold, and seatbelt reminder buzzers. Enhanced use of high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel in the Swift’s structure, anticipated for the Dzire as well, aims to improve crash capability.
Both models are expected to undergo voluntary crash testing at Bharat NCAP and Global NCAP within the next three to four months. Maruti Suzuki’s proactive approach to these tests is unprecedented for the company. Achieving a 5-star rating would require successful side impact protection and high-speed stability testing. Sources suggest Suzuki HQ in Japan is keen for the Made-in-India cars to secure a 5-star rating, though a 4-star rating would also be notable. Despite the stronger India-specific Global NCAP protocol, it remains less stringent than other programs like JNCAP or Euro NCAP.
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The new generation Swift has already earned a 4-star rating from JNCAP, though it has not been tested by ASEAN NCAP, Euro NCAP, or ANCAP. If the build quality remains consistent, the Swift is expected to perform well under less strict protocols. The current indications suggest the Dzire will undergo testing by Global NCAP, while the Swift may be tested at Bharat NCAP. Maruti Suzuki has not commented on this report. Historically, Global NCAP crash tests have seen many Made-in-India Maruti Suzuki models fare poorly, with only the Vitara Brezza and Ertiga achieving notable scores under the earlier, less stringent protocols.