Maruti Alto K10's Performance in the Global NCAP Crash Test

In a recent crash test conducted by Global NCAP, the Maruti Alto K10 performed better than its sibling, the Swift, as well as the Ignis and S-Presso. The Alto K10 received a two-star rating for adult occupant protection and a zero-star rating for child occupant protection. Here's a breakdown of the results and what you need to know:

Adult Occupant Protection:

• The Alto K10 received a two-star rating for adult occupant safety, scoring 21.67 out of 34 points.
• In the frontal impact test, the driver and co-passenger had good protection for their heads and necks but only marginal protection for their chests.
• The driver's right thigh and knee received weak protection, and the right tibias had marginal protection.
• The driver's left thigh, knee, and tibias also had marginal protection.
• The co-passenger's thighs and knees received marginal protection, and the tibias had adequate protection.
• Side impact testing showed good protection for the driver's head and pelvis, weak protection for the chest, and adequate protection for the abdomen.
• The Maruti Alto K10 lacks curtain and side airbags, so the side pole impact test was not conducted.
• The car's body shell integrity remained stable, indicating it can withstand further loading beyond the Global NCAP test speed of 64 km/h.

Child Occupant Protection:

• Unfortunately, the Alto K10 received a zero-star rating for child occupant protection, with a score of 3.52 out of 49 points.
• For an 18-month-old child, the rear-facing child restraint system (CRS) provided good head protection but weak chest protection.
• For a three-year-old child, the forward-facing CRS exposed the head to impact, posing a high risk of injury.
• The side impact test for child protection was not conducted because the Alto K10 does not offer ISOFIX child-seat anchors.

Safety Features:

• The Alto K10 comes with some standard safety features, including dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, front seat belt reminders, and rear parking sensors.
• The hatchback's higher trim levels also come with extra features like speed-sensing auto door locks, central door locking, and impact-sensing door unlocking.

Price & Competitors:

• The Maruti Alto K10 is priced between Rs 3.99 lakh and Rs 5.95 lakh (ex-showroom).
• It competes with the Renault Kwid and can also be considered an alternative to the Maruti S-Presso due to its competitive pricing.

While the Alto K10's safety ratings are not exceptional, they are relatively better than some of its stablemates, making it a choice for budget-conscious buyers in the Indian market. When making a purchase, it is important to take the safety of the inhabitants, particularly youngsters, into account.