Hyundai Tucson Fails Latin NCAP Test

New-Gen Tucson with 2 airbags scores 0 stars at Latin NCAP crash test; Top-spec version with 6 airbags achieved 3 star rating; Tucson joins the list of Hyundai models to fail NCAP crash test

Continuing its poor form at the Latin NCAP (National Car Assessment Program), the recently launched Hyundai Tucson scored a miserable 0 star in the base trim with 2 airbags. The test was also carried on the top-spec version with 6 airbags which returned a reputable 3 start rating. Previously, when the last-generation Tucson was put through the same test, it scored the same 0 stars. In contrast, the car passed the recent tests done by Euro NCAP, with flying colours scoring a 5-star safety rating. This difference in the safety rating highlights the sub-standard active and passive safety features provided on SUVs sold in Latin American markets. For reference, the Indian spec Tucson is identical to the top-spec version sold in Latin America.

2022 Hyundai Tucson: Latin NCAP Crash Test Results

Taking a closer look at the crash test report, the Tucson with 2 airbags scored 20.09 points of for adult occupant safety while the safety for child occupants stood at a minimal 2.62 points. This has translated to 50 percent  adult and 5.23 percent child protection. Upon frontal impact. the coverage to driver and passenger’s head, neck and chest were rated good, while the knees showed marginal protection. In addition, the body shell and footwell area were rated as stable.

The top-spec variant of the Tucson equipped with 6 airbags scored 82% for adult and 70% for child occupant protection. Pedestrian Protection and Safety Assist stood at 48% and 56% respectively. All these individual tests translated into an overall 3-star safety score.

Also Read: New-Gen Hyundai Tucson Launched at Rs 27.70 Lakh in India

According to Latin NCAP, after scoring 0 stars in the crash test, Hyundai decided to improve the basic equipment of the model by adding standard side airbags, side curtain airbags, three-point belts in all positions, i-size marking, seatbelt reminder for the front passenger position, ESC and speed limitation system. The updated model was tested and rated with three stars.