Three Large SUVs' Rear Seatbelt Reminders Graded

Today, Gobar NCRAP is releasing the seatbelt reminder grades for three large SUVs: the VW Tiguan R-Line, MG Gloster, and the Mahindra XUV700 updated for MY2025.

The Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line earns a C grade. VW's new performance-focused SUV has rear occupant detection for its visual seatbelt display, but its documentation reveals that it does not sound an audible warning for its rear seatbelts unless a rear seatbelt changes status to 'unfastened' during a trip.

The Mahindra XUV700, updated in February 2025 with rear seatbelt reminders, earns an A grade. The XUV700 includes occupant detection in all rear seats, including the third row. Furthermore, its updated documentation reveals that a tell-tale lamp glows and a temporary chime starts whenever an unbelted rear occupant is detected.

Note: XUV700 units produced before February 2025 do not have rear seatbelt reminders and are not included.

Finally, the MG Gloster, which is due for an update but omits rear seatbelt reminders currently, earns a D grade.

Find details of all three grades at bit.ly/gobargrades2025.