India-Made Maruti Fronx Scores 4 Stars in 2024 Japan NCAP Crash Tests
In a significant achievement for Maruti Suzuki, the India-manufactured Fronx compact crossover has earned a 4-star safety rating in the 2024 Japan NCAP (JNCAP) crash tests. The results, announced by Japan’s National Agency for Automotive Safety and Victim’s Aid (NASVA), highlight the Fronx’s solid performance in both active and passive safety assessments.
Strong Showing Across Key Safety Categories
The Fronx achieved an overall safety score of 84%, placing it firmly in the 4-star category under JNCAP’s updated 2024 protocols. It excelled in AECS (Advanced Automatic Emergency Call System) scoring a perfect 8/8, or 100%, in this area.
JNCAP Safety Scores:
- Preventive Safety (A Rank): 92%
- Crash Safety (B Rank): 76%
- AECS: 100%
New Testing Protocols for 2024
JNCAP’s latest testing includes tougher evaluations like intersection crash avoidance, new offset frontal impacts, and improved pedestrian safety checks. The Fronx performed especially well in side impact and pedestrian leg protection, although there’s scope for improvement in headlight performance and night-time pedestrian detection—areas where some rivals scored better.
Detailed Test Highlights:
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEBS):
- Pedestrians (Day/Night): 100%
- Cyclists: 100%
- Intersection Scenarios: 58%
- Crashworthiness:
- Full Frontal: 79%
- Offset Frontal: 79%
- Side Impact: 95%
- Rear Whiplash: 82%
- Pedestrian Protection:
- Leg: 100%
- Head: 59%
Fronx Among Top-Performing Compact Crossovers
Although it didn’t secure the full 5-star rating like the Honda Elevate—another India-made model tested just last month—the Fronx still stands out as one of the top-rated compact SUVs tested by JNCAP this year. Its robust safety features and solid structure provide confidence to buyers, particularly in Japan where standards are stringent.
Implications for India and Beyond
The Fronx is a strong seller in India’s competitive sub-compact SUV market. This JNCAP rating not only validates its design and engineering quality but also enhances its appeal in export markets, reinforcing customer trust in Maruti Suzuki’s commitment to safety.
This recognition adds to the growing list of international accolades for Maruti Suzuki, underscoring its efforts to meet evolving global safety benchmarks.
