The Citroen C3 Aircross has earned a disappointing 0-star safety rating in the latest crash tests conducted by Latin NCAP. The Brazil-spec model was evaluated across various categories, including frontal and side impact, whiplash protection, pedestrian safety, and electronic stability control (ESC), with the results exposing significant safety shortcomings. The SUV, which debuted in India last year, has been marketed as a family-friendly offering. But with its poor Latin NCAP performance, should Indian buyers be concerned? Let’s have a look.
Citroen C3 Aircross: Latin NCAP crash test results
In Adult Occupant Protection, the C3 Aircross scored only 33.01%. The frontal impact test revealed weak chest protection for the front passenger, while the side impact test showed significant intrusion into the passenger compartment, increasing the risk of injury. The absence of side head protection was a major drawback, particularly in side pole impact tests.
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Child safety also left much to be desired, with the SUV scoring just 11.37% in Child Occupant Protection. Issues included non-compliance of ISOFIX anchorage markings with Latin NCAP standards and the inability to deactivate the front passenger airbag for rearward-facing child seats. Most tested Child Restraint Systems (CRS) failed during installation, further raising safety concerns.
The SUV fared better in Pedestrian Protection, scoring 49.57%. However, head protection for pedestrians was rated marginal to weak. In Safety Assist Features, it managed 34.88% but lacked advanced safety technologies like Speed Assist, Lane Support, and Autonomous Emergency Braking.
Citroen C3 Aircross India-spec model: A safer version?
While the Brazil-spec C3 Aircross used for the tests comes with only two airbags and ESC as standard, the India-spec model offers a higher safety package. The C3 Aircross sold in India differs significantly from its Brazil-spec counterpart. For starters, the Indian version comes equipped with six airbags as standard, compared to just two in the Brazil-spec model. Additional features in the Indian model include ISOFIX child seat anchors, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), electronic stability control, and hill-hold assist. While these upgrades enhance its safety credentials, the structural integrity of the platform remains a point of concern.
Speaking on the matter, a Stellantis India spokesperson said “At Stellantis, we remain dedicated to offering customers clean, safe, and affordable mobility with products that fulfil the most stringent regulations across the world. we strive to enhance the safety features of each new generation of vehicles. As part of our ongoing product improvement efforts, we consider the new third-party assessments and integrate proven technological solutions into our engineering process where relevant. Stellantis believes there is no single way to measure vehicle safety; third-party assessments are one of many inputs used when designing the safety of our vehicles.
In India, the safety of our customers is at the core of everything we do. Our vehicles come with six airbags, ISOFIX, and a rear seatbelt reminder across the entire lineup. The newly launched Citroën Basalt, with its 4-star Bharat NCAP rating, exemplifies this commitment to safety, innovation, and engineering excellence.”