The Maruti Ciaz, currently on sale in India, has received a 1-star rating for adult occupant protection and a 3-star rating for child occupant protection in the latest crash tests conducted by Global NCAP. The results underline the widening safety gap between the ageing Ciaz and newer midsize sedans in the segment.
Despite offering some basic safety equipment as standard, the Ciaz’s overall performance in crash tests falls short of modern expectations.
Global NCAP Scores at a Glance
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Adult Occupant Protection | 20.86 / 34 points (1 star) |
| Child Occupant Protection | 28.57 / 49 points (3 stars) |
| Standard Safety Features | 2 airbags, ESC, ISOFIX, seatbelt reminders |
Adult Occupant Protection: Key Findings
The 1-star adult occupant protection rating stems from weaknesses in structural integrity and lower-body protection.
In the frontal offset deformable barrier test, the Ciaz scored 7.36 / 16 points
Driver’s head protection: good
Driver’s chest and thighs: marginal
Driver’s feet: poor
Front passenger protection ranged from good to adequate
In the side movable deformable barrier test, the sedan scored 12.49 / 16 points
Protection for the driver’s chest was rated weak
Global NCAP did not conduct the side pole impact test, as the Ciaz lacks curtain airbags. Additionally, both the bodyshell and footwell area were rated unstable, meaning they are not capable of withstanding further crash loads.
Child Occupant Protection: Mixed Results
The Ciaz fared better in child occupant protection, scoring 28.57 / 49 points, thanks largely to strong dynamic performance.
Dynamic score: 24 / 24
Full protection for both the 18-month-old and 3-year-old child dummies in frontal and side impact tests
However, the overall child safety score was pulled down by installation and vehicle-related shortcomings:
CRS installation score: 4.57 / 12
Vehicle assessment score: 0 / 13
These deductions were due to:
Lack of three-point seatbelts for all seating positions
Failure of the child restraint system on the rear centre seat
No option to disable the front passenger airbag when using a rearward-facing child seat
How the Maruti Ciaz Compares With Rivals
In today’s midsize sedan segment, the Ciaz is clearly behind on safety. Rivals such as the Hyundai Verna, Skoda Slavia and Volkswagen Virtus have all achieved 5-star Global NCAP ratings for both adult and child occupant protection, setting a much higher benchmark.
Price and Market Context
The Maruti Ciaz is currently priced between ₹9.09 lakh and ₹11.89 lakh (ex-showroom). While it remains a spacious and affordable sedan, it is also nearing the end of its lifecycle, with no major update or direct replacement planned in the near future.
FAQs: Maruti Ciaz Global NCAP Safety Rating
Q. How many stars did the Maruti Ciaz get in Global NCAP?
The Ciaz received 1 star for adult occupant protection and 3 stars for child occupant protection.
Q. Does the Maruti Ciaz come with airbags as standard?
Yes, it gets two airbags as standard, along with ESC and ISOFIX child-seat mounts.
Q. Why was the side pole test not conducted?
The side pole impact test was skipped because the Ciaz does not offer curtain airbags.
Q. Is the Ciaz safe compared to other midsize sedans?
Compared to newer rivals like the Verna, Slavia and Virtus, which have 5-star ratings, the Ciaz falls significantly behind in crash safety.
Q. Should buyers be concerned about this rating?
Buyers prioritising safety should be aware that the Ciaz’s rating reflects its older platform and limited safety tech, and may want to consider safer alternatives.
