- The Volkswagen Taigun and Skoda Kushaq are the first models crash tested on the Global NCAP’s updated protocols.
- Both SUVs scored 5-star safety ratings for both adult and child occupant protection.
- The bodyshell and footwell areas of the sibling SUVs were stable during impacts.
The Volkswagen Taigun and Skoda Kushaq, both based on Volkswagen Group’s first heavily localised MQB-A0-IN platform, have secured 5-star safety ratings for both adult and child occupant protection in the latest rounds of crash tests conducted by the Global NCAP under its #SaferCarsForIndia campaign. It is worth noting that both the SUVs were tested on GNCAP’s more stringent testing parameters.
Both the Volkswagen Taigun and Skoda Kushaq scored 29.64 points for adult occupant protection and 42 points for child occupant safety. The Global NCAP has used the base-spec variants for most parts of the crash tests, which get dual front airbags, electronic stability control, ABS with EBD, three-point belts for all seats, seat belt pre-tensioners & load limiters, seat belt reminder, Multi Collision Braking (MCB), Electronic Differential Locking System (EDS), Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) with Motor Slip Regulation (MSR), Roll-Over Protection (ROP), and ISOFIX child seat anchors as standard.
Also Read: BYD Atto 3 Secured 5-Star Safety Rating In Euro NCAP Crash Tests
As per the crash test reports, the Volkswagen Taigun and Skoda Kushaq showed satisfactory protection to the head & neck of the front passengers in the frontal impact test. The protection offered to the driver’s chest was rated adequate, while it was good for the passenger’s chest. There was also good protection to the knees of both front occupants and the tibias of the front passenger. However, the driver’s tibias showed marginal and adequate protection. Most importantly, the footwell area & the bodyshell were rated as stable, and they were capable of withstanding further loadings.
In the side pole impact test, which was conducted on the variants with a total of six airbags, also performed well and protected the head, abdomen and pelvis, however, the chest had marginal protection.
Also Read: Bharat New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) Crash Test To Roll Out From April 2023
Speaking of Child Occupant Protection (COP), both the sibling SUVs got a full-blown 5-star rating. The dummies for the 3-year-old and 18-month-old were fitted in rearward-facing child seats and prevented head exposure during the front impact offering full protection.
