The Honda Amaze, a popular subcompact sedan in India, has recently undergone a fresh round of safety assessments by the Global New Car Assessment Program (Global NCAP). While initial expectations might have leaned towards positive results, Amaze’s performance in the latest tests paints a concerning picture. This article delves into the details of the crash tests, analyzes the Amaze’s performance in both adult and child occupant protection, and explores the safety features offered by the car.
A Step Back in Safety: Lower Ratings Compared to 2019
It’s important to acknowledge that this isn’t Amaze’s first encounter with Global NCAP testing. Back in 2019, the South Africa-spec Amaze secured a respectable 4-star safety rating. However, the recent tests conducted under the program’s updated protocols reveal a significant decline in safety performance. The 2023 Amaze received a mere 2-star rating for Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) and a disheartening 0-star rating for Child Occupant Protection (COP).
This decline can be attributed to the stricter testing procedures implemented by Global NCAP. The new protocols place a greater emphasis on crucial safety features like Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and side curtain airbags, both of which are absent in the tested Amaze variant.
Dissecting the Results: A Closer Look at Adult and Child Occupant Protection
Let’s break down the Amaze’s performance in each protection category:
Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) – 2 Stars (27.85 points out of 34)
The Amaze managed a score of 27.85 points out of a possible 34 in the AOP tests. Here’s a breakdown of its performance in different impact scenarios:
Frontal Impact (64 km): The car offered “good” protection for the driver and co-driver’s heads and necks during the frontal crash test. Chest protection was deemed “adequate” for both occupants. However, the knees of both the driver and passenger received a “marginal” protection rating, while their tibias fared better with a “good” score.
Side Impact (50 km): While the head and pelvis received “good” protection in the side impact test, the chest showed “marginal” protection and the abdomen received an “adequate” rating.
Side Pole Impact: This test couldn’t be conducted due to the unavailability of side curtain airbags in the tested variant.
Child Occupant Protection (COP) – 0 Star (8.58 points out of 49)
The Amaze’s performance in the COP tests was particularly concerning, with a meager score of 8.58 points out of 49. Here’s a glimpse into the specific results:
Frontal Impact (64 km): The child restraint systems (CRS) used for both the 18-month-old and 3-year-old dummies offered inadequate protection. The 3-year-old dummy, seated in a forward-facing child seat, sustained excessive head contact with the vehicle’s interior during the impact. The 18-month-old dummy, placed in a rearward-facing CRS, also failed to receive sufficient protection.
Side Impact (50 km): The CRSs, however, managed to offer full protection to the child dummies during the side impact test.
A Stable Bodyshell, But Crucial Features Missing
Despite the disappointing safety scores, the Amaze did receive a positive note on its bodyshell integrity and footwell area. Global NCAP’s report suggests that the car’s bodyshell can withstand significant impact forces. However, this doesn’t negate the critical role played by active safety features like ESC and side curtain airbags, which were absent in the tested variant.
The lack of these features significantly compromises occupant safety in various collision scenarios. ESC helps maintain vehicle stability during critical maneuvers, while side curtain airbags provide additional head and chest protection during side impacts.
Standard Safety Features and Honda’s Response
The Honda Amaze comes equipped with basic safety features such as dual front airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), rear parking sensors, and ISOFIX child seat anchorages. It’s important to note that the tested variant did not include seat belt reminders for all seats, although this feature is now available in the updated Amaze model.
FAQs:
Q: What safety features does the Honda Amaze offer?
A: The Honda Amaze includes dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and ISOFIX child seat anchors. However, it lacks electronic stability control (ESC) and side curtain airbags.
Q: How does the Honda Amaze perform in crash tests?
A: The recent Global NCAP evaluation awarded the Honda Amaze a 2-star safety rating for adult occupant protection and a 0-star rating for child occupant protection.
Q: What steps is Honda taking to address safety concerns?
A: Honda is committed to enhancing vehicle safety and integrating advanced safety technologies across its model range to ensure optimal protection for occupants.
