The Third Quarter of 2023
- Gobar NCRAP
- Jul 18, 2023
- 2 min read
Today, Gobar NCRAP releases fresh results for the third quarter of 2023. Results for all segments have been updated to match the latest safety equipment indicated by the manufacturer. Alongside, two new models have been rated - Hyundai's hotly anticipated Exter subcompact SUV, and Suzuki's upmarket Invicto large three-row MPV.
Latest safety feature comparisons recorded at the end of the second quarter have been published under a new section of the website - Gobar NCRAP Used (accessible through the Ratings section of the menu bar) - as a tool for future pre-owned car buyers to compare the safety equipment on vehicles first sold last quarter.
Many existing Suzuki models across different segments have gained rear safety belt reminders as standard equipment. These include the Alto K10, S-Presso, Celerio, Wagon R, Swift and Brezza. However, because of deficiencies elsewhere, this technology is not able to improve their ratings vis-à-vis peers.
Some variants of the MG eZS midsize SUV gain a wider suite of safety assist technologies like its petrol-powered sibling. All variants of the eZS already had the maximum rating of 'Best Pick' Midsize SUV in the second quarter, and the latest addition only makes this more robust. Concerningly, however, MG are using SAE Automation Levels in marketing material which can mislead consumers into thinking this safety assist suite is a highway assist system with the partial automation capability to cope with reduced driver attention, which it does not have.
Hyundai's new Exter subcompact SUV has mixed results. Although the Exter has six airbags across the range, ESC is only an option on the lowermost variants. Consumers are strongly advised to select the option pack which includes ESC and a bundle of related technologies. ISOFIX anchorages are also not available on most variants. This means that only the top variant of the Hyundai Exter can achieve a rating of 'Best Pick'. The basic variant with standard equipment achieves only a 'Fair'.
The Suzuki Invicto large three-row is a corporate twin to the Toyota Innova Hycross rated earlier. In terms of safety equipment, it presents some differences. The addition of six airbags across the range in comparison to its Toyota sibling boosts the rating of the lowest variant to 'Recommended' (over only a 'Fair' for the Toyota). Better equipped variants of the Invicto bring a tyre pressure monitor and rear safety belt reminders, and earn the highest rating of 'Best Pick', despite the model not carrying forward the ADAS technologies from its Toyota cousin.
Ratings for all other segments are accessible through the New Ratings section of our website (bit.ly/gobarncrap-ratings).
For queries, please contact our social media handles, @gobarncrap (preferred) or write to theyawningchihuahua@gmail.com.
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